Yes, a change of scenery will help, and help you too. A walk with new smells is always good, and keeping him on lead will be good for both of you. When your exams are over, or soon in the white stuff you call Winter, enroll him in dog obedience class, and you will get benefit for him and you. It is a good age to introduce him into obedience, you will learn a lot about yourself, and him, with a bit of proper instruction.
keep smiling in this stressful time of exams.

First, thank you for the honest evaluation of your situation.
Basenjis are dogs that consider who they live wit, to be part of their pack - family.

They only chew or destroy things when they are bored, or mad at you. (Yes, I know people will disagree, but I have had basenjis for 25 years and have witnessed this activity. This included one dog jumping on the table, with me sitting 3 feet away, and peeing in a circle, as if saying, "There, take that!”)

A young basenji, under say, 8 years, will do this when left alone for so long.
(Yes, I know people will disagree, but I have had basenjis for 25 years and have witnessed this activity. This included one dog jumping on the table, with me sitting 3 feet away, and peeing in a circle, as if saying, "There, take that!)

You write that you live with 3 roommates. You do not mention if this will change, so I will assume it will not. Personally, I think it is very unkind (to them AND the dog) of you to bring a basenji into this living arrangement. Unless ALL the roommates understand, and agree, to sharing their lives with a dog that will require so much of their time. The tiniest thing left on the floor could be destroyed, and could even harm the dog. Bathroom doors left open? A basenji might not be able to find anything as much fun, grab the toilet paper, and run. Fun, fun, fun!!! For the dog.

You are researching enough to show that you are checking really well to see if a basenji will fit into your life. In my opinion, not just yet. Maybe later when your life has settled a bit.

Oh, just remembered you mentioning you studying, the dog doing its thing. It might happen, but if the dog thinks your attention should be on him/her, you may not like that something.
Best of luck in your studies, and with where ever your life leads you!

@condesa said in How much puppy exercise?:

Thanks so much! Makes me feel better. And I got her from Nocturnal Kennels in NC.

Are the sire/dam DNA tested for Fanconi and PRA? Did you check for yourself at www.ofa.org as DNA tests for Fanconi/PRA are public posted for the results. If not you should have your girl tested. It is a cheek swab that you do yourself. You can order it at www.ofa.org and the cost is 65.00 for each test (Fanconi & PRA)