I'm honestly irritated at the economic system that is unable to make it so that university is an optional and elite path, rather than a lowish common denominato

I'm honestly irritated at the economic system that is unable to make it so that university is an optional and elite path, rather than a lowish common denominator. The American "college-for-all" bit is fallout from the ideal of social mobility, which is only an ideal because it's such a big deal to go from rags to riches. The reward makes the risk look worthwhile. And, also related, is that universities are now finishing schools helping delay adulthood as long as possible; grade school is mostly a funnel towards making sure the kids get into college, rather than trying to stand on its own institutional merit.