You could do it with a script that runs Select PREV after entering the folder (maybe after checking that the first normal item in the folder is selected, in case the folder was opened to highlight a particular item).
But, even easier than that, is pushing Return to enter the folder and then Backspace to go back up. The two keys are right next to each other, and that's something I do all the time. (Also means the .. item isn't needed at all.) May take some re-training of muscle memory but wouldn't take long.
Under Preferences / File Display Modes / Details, turn on the Horizontal grid and select the solid block from the drop-down.
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