I think there is a lot of validity to your post. 

I think it would be a good idea if every kid in the USA would be required to spend 2 years in the real, working world after high school and before starting on a 4-year degree.  (I could see an exception for someone going into a trade school.)  I think a requirement like that could bring a lot of reality to our system.  However, I don't think it will happen.  Period.