Define lower caliber - short of a few schools your outcomes are very likely to be the same no matter where you go.
My Poli Sci at U of Arizona nephew is in CS for a large name in NYC.
Had to pass a bunch of tests for them…he’s self taught.
It goes back to the where - likely not as big a deal as most kids make it.
PS -U of Penn is $92K next year (more when you go) and Duke $93K - so your folks need to re-adjust what they think school costs.
How about an RPI - if you can get their medal - can make costs!!