I do agree with the OP (at least to a degree) that the Yeshiva system has become too much like a cookie-cutter. One size does not fit all, and there should indeed be greater freedom to pursue topics in Torah that one has an interest in (particularly Halacha and bekiyus).
That said, a student must be sufficiently developed in analyzing and truly understanding a text before they can “move on” to other topics, since these skills are critical for any type of learning. This is why younger bochurim are usually taught iyun for the lion’s share of the day, while older bochurim (such as those in Mir and Lakewood) often branch out into whatever field they feel their strengths lie in.
Also, I have to agree with HaLeiVi and PBA that if you feel that a certain mehalach ha’limud is right for you, you have to be able to ignore those who will look down upon you for doing things differently. ??? ?????? ????.
As for Veltz Meshugener’s point that “yeshivas in the charedi world do not tolerate even harmless activities that are not learning”: While it is true that there is nothing inherently wrong with neutral activities or hobbies, Chazal tell us (Avos, 6, 6) that Torah is nikneh ????? ????? ????? ???? ????? ????. And many, if not most American Chareidi Yeshivos do indeed believe that more than 5% of the male population can be koneh Torah.
noname1234:
R’ Usher Areilli gives the largest daily Gemera shiur in the world (to 700+ talmidim) at an approximate rate of 1.5-2 blatt a week (only first seder). And nobody looks down on him.
As for why it is that these options are often only available to older bochurim, see above.