Google is great and looking up facts and even teaching but you can't put "Advanced Google Searcher" on your resume.

You can be successful without any formal education but the average person will be more successful sticking to school.

I totally agree.

I managed to get a lot of experience behind me before I officially started my career. I know that a few parameters made the situation available to me.

But one can't help think that perhaps ability/passion > education. Especially when the education isn't being utilized. So why are employers looking for educated persons first? I think it shows commitment. Commitment, ability and passion don't always run the same linage, though.