Just to add to the conversation, I think that there are a few reasons why interviewers like graduates with the most important reason being that of maturity. No matter how mature you are/think you are after a -levels, having to cope with living away from home and being self sufficient is always going to develop you. University also shows that you have perseverence.
Not that all of these traits aren't shown by people that dont go to university, but especially if pitted against a candidate straight out of school, the impression is more favourable.
And of course you get to have the time of your life
