instead I have found empty people with little ambition and little interest in the world outside of a regional microcosm.

You are 100% at the wrong school. Transfer ASAP. As you note the people are a big part of the reason for actually going to a school.

I think you'd find the people and education you're looking for at a U1 type University (my bias opinion). Get into the best one you can - if nothing else the average ambition of the students will be higher.