Unfortunately, that mentality extends much farther than higher education.

Phrases like, "I had to go college juggling two shitty jobs, and I made it through. There is nothing keeping you from doing the same.", etc. are all-too-common in our culture.

How is that lifestyle ideal in any way? What personal benefit exists apart from bragging rights at the end?

How about, rather than passing on this masochistic life-path as status quo, we actually take some effort to make our society better?