> The other 90% were just in it for money/prestige.
I remember, that we were considered still loosers at that time. Even in early 2010s, I had discussions that how geeks are loosers. We even had several movies and series whose main topic was that geeks are loosers. Even in those where we were the protagonists. So I highly doubt that your experience is generic.
The Hollywood depiction doesn't matter if you're in a position to go to college and you're picking your major for what pays best. The only other safe bets are law and medicine, and even a freshman will realize those are much more work.
I remember, that we were considered still loosers at that time. Even in early 2010s, I had discussions that how geeks are loosers. We even had several movies and series whose main topic was that geeks are loosers. Even in those where we were the protagonists. So I highly doubt that your experience is generic.