Madeline, let me give you a positive view from a parent's perspective. You may want to let your parents read this or print it out.

I've raised two girls into fine adults. I remember all too clearly those rocky teenage years. Those times of uncertainty, swaying emotions, raging hormones and lots of irrational thinking with only a pinch of decernment.

Those lonely times in their rooms is when they do a lot of heavy thinking, planning, and which road to take. During this time, a PERSONAL pet of their own and their own choosing can be an excellent vehicle to help in personel development.

One of my daughters wanted a rabbit. I thought that was the dumbest pet to get. But it turned out to be the perfect pet! Not only was it cool, it helped my oldest daughter in many ways emotionally that the family dog and cat could not.

Then when the younger one grew older and asked for a Ball Python that I was not wild about; what could I say. I knew that she was different and had different needs.
This snake had a great calming effect on my daughter who was filled with rage. It also taught her some empathy for others.
Another good move.

With all of the visits to the pet shop and the great research that you have done Madeline, it is clear to me that you want a Ball Python as a pet and that you will be a responsible caretaker. As to why you want one? To me as a parent, that is a nonissue. With your drive and desire the point is that you HAVE the strong desire. As long as you keep your snake in your room I just can't see what the problem is.

BTW- my oldest daughter was really afraid of the snake. What got her over the fear was when I told her that in the very remote possibility that IFFFFFF she ever got bit; the bite from playing with the dog or the scratch from playing with the cat hurts 25 times worse than a bite from a Ball Python. You could see the weight from relief being lifted from her shoulders.