<p>You seek validation. The prestige, reputation, elite status and low acceptance rates(scarcity) make the top schools highly valuable which pschologically will make you feel highly valuable if admitted.</p>
<p>My D got into an ivy and we are struggling to stay humble. It’s not even our accomplishment. It makes you feel good to accomplish something that so many are unable to do but want.</p>
<p>On the flip side, I can envision a scenario where the OPs attitude sabotages his chances of acceptance. Being told you won’t get it by your parents creates some extra baggage going into essays and interviews.</p>