Two questions, Power steering and struts Options

[jtmlb3k]

So since last summer when I drove across country, my power steering has been messed up. Sometimes when I start the car I have it, and other times I don't. Does anyone have any idea why this may be?

Also, what's the worst that could happen if I drive on blown struts? My front ones I can tell are just about done because they creak wicked badly whenever I go over a speed bump and decompress much slower than my rears (which were replaced about 20,000 ago), but is it an absolute must for me to replace them? I'm trying to save money to get a newer car after I graduate next year, so every penny counts...

Thanks!