Turq, I graduated with a degree in Music Therapy in 2007. I COMPLETELY understand you when you write about the frustrations of wanting to study abroad, but having to stay in the practice room or take music theory(what is the point of music theory beyond scales and chords?) or worse-- SIGHT SINGING!!!!
I have several friends who graduated with a music performance degree, BUT they also made sure to get certified to teach so that yes they can play for the symphony here, but they can also teach private lessons and ask for much more money than a music ed major.
Take heart! Life knows where it wants to take you.