A:
Gosh, to be honest, and with apologies, I'd suggest taking it back and getting a bigger tablet. If you're a professional writer and journalism student I think you'll be more satisfied with a bigger version.
That said I suggest purchasing a case to protect it, and not an InCase or just a cover, but something that really wraps around and cradles it.
As a professional writer you may benefit from an external Bluetooth keyboard. Something like a Logitech - K810 Bluetooth Illuminated Keyboard, Model: 920-004292 / SKU: 6640612.
There's also a really great, free app, for Android called "AirDroid" which allows you to control your Android tablet over wifi from your desktop computer. This has been absolutely vital for us in moving photos, documents, both to and from the tablet.
Hope that helps!