Yes, that's certainly the case. I often encounter problems that can be solved elegantly using algorithms and datastructures that I learnt in university. E.g. if I were self-taught, I'd probably not recognize when to use, say viterbi decoding or Levenshtein automata. And these are things that I encounter in my day to day work.
I don't think university training is the most effective method to 'enrich' yourself. If you have discipline, reading good books on CS theory is far more effective. First, because courses are relatively slow since they tend to be paced for lowest common denominator. Second, because there is some chaff every program, especially when you assume that most people specialize to their interests fairly quickly.
The advantages of following a university program are on a different level: many employers won't hire someone without a relevant degree, since it is (for good CS programs) an indicator of knowledge and skill. Secondly, university is a good place to get to meet people, both friends and significant others.
Without having attended a university, I would assume that one of the many advantages are the possibility for mentorship during self-study. Which is a scenario one could replicate in a daily routine.
I think mentors are extremely important, to inspire and to help you, when you hit a dead end. So you avoid many of the negative experiences, and keep a good flow when learning. It's definitely the case for me.
Without having attended a university, I would assume that one of the many advantages are the possibility for mentorship during self-study. Which is a scenario one could replicate in a daily routine.
Certainly, as Frank Zappa aptly said: “If you want to get laid, go to college. If you want an education, go to the library.” But that is all under the assumption that you have enough discipline.
I don't think university training is the most effective method to 'enrich' yourself. If you have discipline, reading good books on CS theory is far more effective. First, because courses are relatively slow since they tend to be paced for lowest common denominator. Second, because there is some chaff every program, especially when you assume that most people specialize to their interests fairly quickly.
The advantages of following a university program are on a different level: many employers won't hire someone without a relevant degree, since it is (for good CS programs) an indicator of knowledge and skill. Secondly, university is a good place to get to meet people, both friends and significant others.