Am late here but if you are a female, make it light and easy to handle.
I’m into 45’s right now but will get a small, light Sig or the equivalent for concealed carry....on the thigh, in the car or in the handbag...
Most important...shoot a lot, get familiar with the weapon and gain confidence in your use of it...yes, it is a matter of life and death.
Or a Keltec PMR 30 because nothing says security like 30 rounds in the magazine. :-)