I think its a bit of both.
I do love studying and getting educated in certain subjects within great details. I admit, i do get a little excited when learning about hearts and such since I do plan on being a cardiologist one day. However getting through 5+ years(along with masters and such) can be really eh, tiring I guess. But the thought of working in the field of career I have always dreamed on due to university degree, surely makes it worth it.
It's an investment too, I don't think anyone really enjoys spending a lot of their time stressing and crying over the assignments and finals. At times like these, networking plays a key role even when you do have the degree for the required job. There's just good and bad in everything, not that I'm complaining.