<p>Oh, for heaven’s sake, don’t give the scholarship back to the foundation. You’ve worked hard for it; there are very few opportunities to get recognition for pure merit; and you have no reason to feel guilty over what other students can or can’t afford. All the more so because, as an apparent full-freight student, you’re already subsidizing some of your classmates to begin with. You’re going to have plenty of socialism to contend with in the next few years as it is.</p>
<p>As to the puppy, it sounds like you’ve thought this through with great care and maturity. Like others, I’m not sure it’s a great idea for someone in your situation – I know that even a cat was a challenge for me while working and going to college – however, it sounds like you’re about as well prepared as someone in your situation could be. Like others, I hope you’ll consider waiting a while until your life is a bit simpler. Even if only for the sake of having a financial cushion without the potential for large, unpredictable expenses. Best wishes, Kristin.</p>