I think assuming that this is a disposable, non-serviceable machine is a bit premature. Yes the RAM and SSD are soldered to the mainboard, but otherwise it looks like this might be Apple's most serviceable computer in a long time.
https://www.macrumors.com/2026/03/12/macbook-neo-six-minute-...
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5k7Lv7f-5CQ
Non-expandable is a fair criticism. I think 8GB would be a bit constraining for a CS student but will be fine for many others.