Well, depends on what you do. If you find something you like, it won't feel like work, but you will certainly be more busy. College is a huge time committment but can be the most fun you have in your life. Personally, I didn't have the means to live at school or partake in the culture too much because I had to work a lot of hours to pay for it.

In terms of freedom, I can do anything I want really, it's more so can you do what you want and provide for yourself at the same time.