That's not what this is about at all. You're missing the entire point.

The only thing being discussed is the amount of time you had to yourself with a school schedule, versus how little time you have to yourself on a work schedule. That's it.

They're not talking about literally being back in school. They're not talking about bullying, homework, taking classes etc. They're not talking about not having money or being dependent on your parents. They're not talking about Mr Jones from Biology who wouldn't stop shouting at kids.

Reading comprehension, however, is something that's worth remembering from those days.