Well both are right at their own places . these was a quote in forbes magazine " Always remember money is not everything is life.. but make sure you earn sufficient before you think of such nonsense" it is easy for them who have a few years of experience, thought they have not earned enough but have realized their priorities for some time. May be they feel their time for having quality time in life is slipping out of hand. For others who must earn well for whatever reason they have , but if they can not make it in to reputed schools it makes sense to join a school which has relatively good infrastructure lower fees and prepares to face the competitive world. Bottom line is everyone wont get in to the best school in terms of starting salary or lower course fees or scholarships.. but once you get in make sure to take care of the lacunae what you perceive to be an develop your own strategy you bring the tide in your favor.