Hi, fellow MA resident. UMass Lowell’s profile in the state has increased a lot over the last 5-10 years, with the state awarding almost $12mm in funding for advanced manufacturing tech in 2017. It is worthwhile to check out the career office, to see what kinds of relationships have been built locally.
I have had a couple of UMass Lowell graduates work for me. Extremely smart, practical young people. Very effective.
Lastly, there’s the weather difference! Texas gets HOT.
You have a great experience and career ahead of you, either way.