Seems like these questions are planted to generate clicks and replies for CC. I have a hard time determining if this poster is an employee, paid poster, or is an actual parent. If a parent, I can’t begin understand the obsession with the same discussions over and over again. 92 Threads started in less than a year on the site. Many unusual questions for a new member. Not many specific questions or discussions started about their actual child. I am slowly returning to CC after the redesign but this is enough to make me leave again.
To answer your question: I believe the only benefit of attending a selective college, if that is the only criteria, is to separate fools from their money. It is a fear based emotional decision rooted in feeling the need to validate, keep up, or fear of falling behind. Selective colleges have amazing things to offer, as do less selective colleges. When choosing because of a ranking or a name you are identifying yourself as a mark to be taken. Students who have the drive and intelligence to get into selective colleges will thrive and soar wherever they go. The selective school’s benefits are in their off the charts financial aid. If a low SES is the recipient, that is the benefit. If the student will not be a recipient of that generous financial aid then there is no benefit at all.