I disagree and think the stats back me up. A top tier school opens doors you don't get elsewhere. Is the education better? No, although you have a higher peer group to sit in class with and "compete" against, if that's your thing. But the connections and prestige of the degree are worth it according to economists who study these things.
Again, though, it would depend on the subject and her career path. For photography, she'd probably be better off at an art school.
Find the right college for you. Search colleges by cost, size, location, and more to find your best fit.
www.princetonreview.com