Hmm yes I guess that comes up as well, feeling from your or their side like making up for your parents "mistakes". Well I am glad you somehow left University alive and claimed back your passion and inspiration.
...a part of that passion I had to dig back out again myself after a few too many years of school. I can relate to that!
Meanwhile for some it might be the way to learn? I don't know. Surely I would say that any intrinsic motivation to learn is of tremendous value compared to anything else...