Looking for a reliable student notebook

Hey everyone,

I'm doing some research for my girlfriend--she's looking into buying a laptop for grad school to replace her 5 year old dell.

1_What is your budget?
$750-1000

2_What is the size of the notebook that you are considering?
12-13" 14 MAX

3_What screen resolution do you want?
doesnt really matter. Something easily viewable

4_Do you need a portable or desktop replacement laptop?
portable

5_How much battery life do you need?
3-4+

6_Do you want to play games with your laptop? If so then please list the games that you want to with the settings that you want for these games. (Low,Medium or High)?
no games

7_What other tasks do you want to do with your laptop? (Photo / Video editing, surfing the web, playing music, watching movies, Etc.)
web, microsoft office, photos, aim, skype, music, movies--standard load

8_How much storage (H.D.D Capacity) do you need?
150-250gb

9_If you are considering specific sites to buy from, please post the links to them.
I like portable one a lot. Other than that, I'm open

10_How long do you want to keep your laptop?
as long as possible...3-4+yrs

11_If you would like to mention some other things about purchasing your ideal laptop, post them.
Durability is key. My girlfriend is very very careful, but something less wimpy is good. (I had an hp that developed many creaks after loose panels after only four months)

An integrated webcam/mic is a must.

Long warranties are great. 2 years if possible.

She's sold on the core II duo marketing. If that's the best processor, then lets go with that. If you guys have any better suggestions, I can do my best to convince her.

A nice full (or nearly full) keyboard is a plus. Something easy to type on.

Needs an SD slot. And at least 2 USB ports.

And certain amount of laptop stylishness is always good, too. (not like the dell flashy covers--but something sleek and professional)

Obviously, bang for buck is appreciated.



12_Please tell us about the brands that you prefer to buy from them and the brands that you don't like and explain the reasons.

She likes the Acer Aspire 3935 so far. I like Asus's style and I love the company. I also really enjoy my Vaio SZ, although I think sony pricing might push something good out of her range. No Macs.

13_What country do you live in?
USA

Thank you for your help!

Best,
Brady

Not a bad option...I like the price, but am not in love with the processor. I will certainly keep that in mind.

Any other suggestions?