I believe education is just one of the ways of attaining knowledge. It is knowledge that makes the difference, whether earned through schooling or through hands-on work. It is the knowledge one has that makes the difference in terms of success at the end of the day.
However it may be remembered that not everyone can be driven or focussed enough to keep learning on their own and bettering themselves while working. For them, completing their degrees is an obvious choice. Otherwise, nothing like hands-on experience combined with a mind that is open to constant learning, that seeks more knowledge.
Degrees bring a certain amount of confidence in certain individuals but are not critical for success. However that confidence is critical, and if one is inherently confident (about constantly bettering oneself)... work experience is the best option.
