After looking at all your replies, I think the answer would be a hybrid approach - use the current laptop for class notes, typing, light simulation work, and buying a steam deck for gaming in the dorm room/at hangouts (Since the room photos I've looked at don't have space for my full desktop setup, and it seems like the most rational bang for buck choice).
Thanks for all your feedback, and some illumination on Framework laptop's price/value suggestion and the Steam Deck's capabilities.