<p>As an adult living in a very provincial area (Rio Grande Valley) I encounter your situation over & over with student of mine (I teach music). My advice to you is GO to UT if you can afford it. I’m not going to say anything bad about your parents, but you seem like you are conflicted about the situation. I would say go live YOUR life, but honor your parents. I would say the best way to honor them is to prove them wrong. You need to spread your wings. I think if you succeed they WILL be proud of you no matter what they might be saying at the moment. I have known students who have passes opportunites for UT & most recently Rice because they parents didn’t want them leaving the area. Just my opinion, but I think it’s very selfish for a parent to want to destroy their childs self esteem. Good luck, & I truly hope you do make the move to Austin/UT.
Another thing, it might NOT be possible for you to leave on good terms at this juncture. What I mean is you might leave on good terms but not with your mother’s blessing. Whatever the case, honor her & respect her but GO.</p>