Surfing Waves

I just started out surfing. Im getting ready to go off to school where ill surf 3-5 times a week. I need a board to progress on. Ive looked at the Softech tom carroll series I have surfed on a 9 ft and did really well. I have years of skating and snowboarding and I'm in great shape I play 3 sports. Can i move up to a 6'6 or 7'6??

It all depends on your size age and weight, what is suitable. I certainly wouldn't go the softtech Tom Carrol boards if you have serious intent and are over the age of seven.
What country and where are you planning to surf also has some bearing.
I'm thinking 7'6" or bigger and non soft.

Im 17 5'9 155 gonna be surfing around san diego, ca, usa. What should i start looking towards like brand and model wise?

Can't go far wrong with an NSP board. Decent volume and solidly made for a decent price.