In England, it is quite common for people to go to university even if they don't want to, as it's seen as the 'next step' after sixth form. The teachers at my sixth form forced everyone to apply to university, even if they wanted to do an apprenticeship or go straight into a job. I think at the age of 18/19, a lot of people don't know for sure what they want to do with their life. So they go to university thinking that it will help them to find what it is they want to do, whilst gaining confidence and independence. Some people at my sixth form only applied to uni because they wanted to experience the social life/ drinking culture. But the point is, young people are brainwashed by teachers to think that you have to go to university to be successful.
Jade certainly seems like she is only going to university for the sake of it, or because she feels like it's expected of her.
Obviously I can't speak on behalf of all young people in England, but this was just my experience!