I say go for dating. Talk to all of those cute girls you see in class.. you never know what can come of it. And if you feel up for it, you could pursue things with this girl you're talking to currently. Although, long distance would be pretty difficult. It's your call though.
About the archeology thing.. I know plenty of people who are willing to move around for their SO. That situation may not be as hopeless as you think. Either way, if archeology is what you've always dreamed, pursue it. The women will come.
Everyone regrets things in their past. The only difference is how many things we regret. I have plenty that I am trying to deal with right now.. I know how tough it is too. The best advice I have gotten is to not dwell on your regrets. If you were unhappy about not doing that much in high school, then go out and do all the things you have always wanted. If you sit and mourn over all the things you are unhappy with about your past, then your time now will be passing you by. I am working VERY hard on taking my own advice here. I hope things brighten up for you