While it can be hard for a college student to make a proper, lifetime committment to a dog, and care for it, I think there are students out there who can do that, often better than many older owners.
I was severely depressed (and undiagnosed) in high school and college, and by sophomore year was going through periodic suicidal episodes. Right or Wrong, my then BF, now husband and I got a guinea pig, Arnold. Worse yet, he wasn't really supposed to be in the dorm, but the RA said it was okay, and we had a double backup plan as to who would take him.
That little piggie saved my life, he helped me hang in there until I was able to get a diagnosis, and treatment. 3 years later, when he needed really expensive surgery, and money was very tight, he got it, because how could I not take care of him when he had taken care of me. He lived a full, happy life, and I still miss him, although I've honored his memory, I think, by the three piggies I've subsequently adopted.
Were we irresponsible in getting Arnold--I think so, but he made a huge difference in my life, and overall, he had a wonderful life for a little piggie. He didn't get the best of everything (he lived in a rented appartment, now I own a home) and while he was with me I was still learning so much about taking care of guinea pigs. But he always got the best I had to offer, and if one of us went without, it was me.
Wow, this is long and bit O/T, sorry. I guess I needed to get this out.