This is not general advice, but since you asked: in your shoes I would move to Europe and start a Ph.D. (possibly Northern Europe, e.g., Denmark or Sweden, wher

This is not general advice, but since you asked: in your shoes I would move to Europe and start a Ph.D. (possibly Northern Europe, e.g., Denmark or Sweden, where you can live very comfortably on a Ph.D. scholarship). There are few things as inspiring and challenging as pushing the boundaries of human knowledge. It's also a great way to meet new and inspiring people outside of your circles.