Observation 1: There are plenty of wonderful schools that aren’t TSAO schools. In addition to the previous suggestions, look up the Hidden Gems thread.
Observation 2: Yeah, there are a lot of people who have had a messy few years. If you can frame it right, though, you can stand out and make your experience an asset.
Observation 3: You might not have to go far to get away from it all. At least, that’s what my kid found out.