Why does everyone want an iPhone?

Hi! I'm a incoming college freshmen in the US and I've never had a phone before (strict Indian parents). I plan on getting a new phone on back market or any other refurbished seller but I'm just really confused why Americans are so persistent about phone brands. My budget is $275 and I'm worried about how I might be perceived based on whether I don't have an iPhone or an old model of an iPhone. Does it really matter? pls help, any advice is appreciated

edit: Thank you! I really appreciate all the advice I've gotten. I think I'll probably end up buying an android and use it as a detector to ward off immature ppl lol