Unfortunately the conveyor-belt educational system in the U.S. creates a perception of rule-based linear progression as a path to success. It makes you believe that if you get good grades, engage in extracurriculars, follow the rules, and work hard you'll be guaranteed a path to the "next stage". Eventually you realize the "next stage" is real-life, where the rules you followed in the educational system don't necessarily apply.

A strong life-skill is to learn to work with the system that exists and be malleable and adaptable like water under that system, at least until you're able to have the capacity to change it. This includes having the ability to change one's expectations.

In my opinion, this students stands to gain more by going the non-"prestigious" path.