don't be so quick to jump the gun on people. 12k isn't that much money to spend on a car. many peoples grandparents buy their relatives cars, usually brand new Honda civics, and not because they think its safe reliable etc... but because they've heard of fast and the furious and think its cool....
-the goal in life is not to be finically set, though it would be nice. The goal is to be happy. nothing else matters if your not. School is stressful, being a young adult is scary and very dis-heartening, especially with pessimistic old people insulting you. if someone will be happier by helping you purchase something to make you happy, who's going to judge that.
edited to remove insults etc...