HELP! Need Help applying to out of state schools

As far as UT Austin, my opinion is not to waste your time. Many people were turned away with better stats. Also, NYU is a private school. It costs about $71,000 per year. It would have been a long shot for you to be admitted during the admission process.

What is your major?
Can you attend UCR for a year and then transfer to a better ranked UC school?

It is very unfortunate that you experienced difficulty this past year, I wish you luck in the future.