100% concur with above. This is almost identical to the advice I’m giving my kids. The only addition being that I’m really emphasizing the value of having a good college degree both for options it gives and the opportunity to learn how to think for themselves. Unfortunately, developing the latter seems to be a low priority at some educational institutions nowadays.

To the OP: you have big choices to make, but enjoy the ride along the way. Some of my best memories are of events and friends from some of the most difficult points of my career. Don’t put off marriage or kids because the timing isn’t “right”. It never will be. Simply have open and frank discussions of what implications different choices may have. Life’s an adventure novel, don’t be in a rush to skip to the last page.