<p>slipper,
I don’t think you have a clue about the Texas economy. It’s huge, well diversified and there are plenty of home grown opportunities for Rice grads there. Not to mention the fact that many of the prestigious firms that so enthrall you have offices in DFW and/or Houston. Heck, even SMU places well into many of them. </p>
<p>As for the expectations comment, please check the arrogance at the door. People outside of the Northeast have expectations too and there are plenty of successful companies and industries far from NYC and people are creating businessess and wealth all over the globe. You don’t need an Ivy degree to accomplish any of that.</p>