When I was OP’s age a few decades ago, I had similar feelings but with a difference… Socially I was a fish out of water at Yale–from a rural area, etc. But I did love most of my classes. I did well academically but I was emotionally relieved on graduation day–I didn’t even bother to stay around. I came from a blue collar background and I had no illusions that working in the “real world” rather than going to college would advance me in my life. So I had a pragmatic view of Yale’s usefulness coupled with a personal appreciation for the opportunity to learn “non practical” subjects.
As time went on, I realized even more that the Yale degree was a door opener for jobs. You still needed the ability to work with others, handle corporate politics, get the job done, etc but I had people call me to recruit me just because of that college background and that has worked out well for me… I am more involved with alumni affairs now, and when I go back, I marvel how the place has improved socially. Co education is a big part of it as well as a more diverse student body, but the administration is also much more consciously focused on the emotional aspect than was true in the 70s and 80s. The young Yalies I know seem pretty happy, given the stresses of college life and young adulthood.
Also, on a personal note, I met my future wife at a large social event where nobody could be heard. She had heard that I went to Yale so she gave me a few seconds to introduce myself. She has mixed views of Yale (maybe of me too) but I count myself very fortunate that she gave me a chance. Just another random benefit.