I would definitely get an apartment if I was you. First of all, getting on your parents nerves does not pay off in the long run. Second, get it as close to the places you need to get to on a daily places. Car is just a way too much unneeded hassle and it can make you so da*n lazy. I am even delaying getting my driver's license so I would not get a temptation to get a car. I am currently living (basically) in the city centre and it's great. Only time I use any transportation (public or otherwise) is when I want to visit my parents in another city 120 miles away - I can get almost anywhere in 5-45 minutes on foot. And definitely find some room-mates, it makes the living both cheaper (you can split not only the rent, but also groceries - making dinner for three people is much cheaper and easier than three people all making their own) and much more fun. Getting a low-interest student loan when possible is great way to help pay for your life through studies, but down waste it - plan your expenses and introduce some frugality in your life. That's something I have not been so good at and I don't like myself much for that.
Oh, and another thing, I would definitely let my friends know that they're morons.
