[davidhansen]

for the best jobs (or cofounders!), it will be helpful to start off at an elite institution.

FWIW, I not only attended a state university, but I also dropped out of it, and still managed to co-found a few successful companies. I'm not sure what the parenthetical "or cofounders" is supposed to mean, since customers of most businesses don't typically ask for a CV.

[ameen]

Well, I can see where you come from. A lot of talent is outside these so-called "brand" schools. But then again, I believe it would've been a little harder for you to convince your VC's or even your co-founders to join you than it would've been had you been to a brand school.

This is all IMHO, but I think those "brand" schools help you get your foot into the door, after that its all your hardwork. Also, All the very best with your business!