You are right, I think. What I was trying to say is, a lot of the people recommending college in these situations cite the "life experience"—which I wholeheartedly agree with—but, that might not be coupled to college :)
I'm American as well, btw.
As they say - "Youth is wasted on the young". Wrap your mind around that and live your youthful days to the fullest. Prove them wrong.