What do you think of my decision?

I have a mediocre GPA and SAT score. I applied to several UC's, including LA and Berkeley. The thing is, I believe I can get accepted into Irvine or Davis (possibly, SD), but I do not have much of a chance at the top 2. If I am rejected by the top 2, shouldn't I just attend a community college, boost my GPA, and try for the top 2 UC's? I am not keen on graduating from a mediocre UC when I know I am better than that. For me, getting an education is not the thing. It is graduating from a prestigious school and being marketable that will enable to become successful. After all, as they say, most of the things you learn in school you will not need.