[janeseymore09092]

I see the Netbooks thread on here from last year, and was going to just comment at the end, but I thought I'd just start a new thread. I need help selecting a computer, I've never owned a laptop before and only one PC and my Blackberry. I am completely

I'm also an incredibly poor grad student, therefore I want value, and I have no interest in Macs at this time.
We have cable internet, I will be requesting a supposedly free router from the cable company and hopefully they will be of some help in setting up the internet with whatever I select.

What I want to use this for:
Gmail and basic internet browsing (I need to find research articles)
Skype (video not necessary really)
Youtube (I won't cry if I can't watch HD)
Microsoft OS I guess, I have no preference, would a new laptop have Windows 7? I'd need Office too?

That's honestly it. I don't want a piece of shit jumpy thing that dies in one year just to save money, but I can't shell out a ton.

Thank you in advance for any help! I figure I will be swindled at Best Buy if I'm not prepared, I am a shy chick with big boobs and a nervous smile after all lol.