The only true fact you can rely on in choosing a college is cost. Everything else is personal preference and opinion. U.S. news rankings are opinions, not facts. Prestige is a perception based on opinion. Never base your decisions on the opinions of others. Do research and form your opinions, then you can make an educated decision on where you go to college.
Debt is not your friend. Going into large amounts of debt for prestige is foolish and could sabotage your future, especially when you decide to get married and start a family.
Choosing a college is just like any other major purchase. No one ever says, “My DREAM car is a Ford.” They’re going to do some research and find out the best fit. Apply to a wide variety of schools and choose the best one for you that you can afford.