This podcast episode argues that our cultural obsession with highly rejective colleges is misguided. These colleges are not actually more prestigious, but simply more selective. This focus on exclusivity has led to rising costs, student loan debt, and decreased access for low-income students. Instead, we should prioritize funding and support for regional public universities (RPUs), which often do a better job of serving low-income students and students of color. By investing in RPUs and changing our attitudes towards them, we can make higher education more accessible, affordable, and supportive for all students.