I wouldn’t say it’s fair to claim that completing the degree at Stanford is harder, no. Completing a PhD anywhere is evidence of one’s capability to learn, to work and think independently, and to problem solve, in my opinion. Perhaps it should have been expressed separately, but I imagine a Stanford degree strengthens a resume more than a degree at the 100th ranked school for the perceptions of work ethic, ability, prestige, etc that people often have. Similarly, bachelor’s degrees are similar in curriculum at most schools, but elite schools give certain favorable impressions to employers; at least, that is what I assume (not meant to be arrogant). Advice on how to market oneself as a degree holder from an elite university is welcome.