I don't understand why journalists continue to call users with the blue check-mark "verified". There's no verification of anything but a credit card. Verification is a relic of the past and they need to shift their language to match reality. Maybe call them "paid" users.

Fedora Silverblue sounds like it fits what you're looking for.

Very much agree. I'd love if Valve would consider filling this niche considering the great success of the Steam Deck. A small clam-shell handheld sized like the GBA SP or the DS.

Plenty of good suggestions in this thread. I'll add on that I recommend you read Alyssa Miller's "Cybersecurity Career Guide". It will answer many of your questions and provide you a roadmap to land your first job. https://www.manning.com/books/cybersecurity-career-guide?ar=true&lpse=A

I usually give it a few weeks before I upgrade to a new major version just to be safe.