As far as the driving question goes. I grew up in Idaho, UT, and CO, so I have driven in it all, but from the nature of your question, I would say you haven't, so I wouldn't suggest starting when you have such an important appointment to make. When I came out to interview I drove between appointments, and the roads were just fine.
I am now in the midwest. While I have only seen one winter, I would say January will get worse weather, but you can't count on it. However, even back in the west, the majority of days the roads are just fine. It is just if you happen to get the bad luck of needing to drive during a storm that you have to worry about it.
Now, here are the winter tips I give my California and Arizona friends. Keep an eye on the weather. If there is a possibility of a storm, leave enough time in your schedule that you can pull of the road and hit a hotel for the night if needed. Bring a sleeping bag or clothes, so you could sleep in your car if you were to slide off the road in the middle of no where. Bring a cell phone. If you can, practice turning and stoping in an empty parking lot before you hit the road.
Just my thoughts.
