How much are you looking to spend?
If the only reason you'd want a laptop is for wireless internet access, browsing, and school work, I'd go ahead and build a decent desktop PC.
Then I'd start saving up to buy the cheapest Dell, HP, or Sony (around 700-800). Machines in that range work great for surfing, and its easier to stomach having a $700 machine stolen vs. a laptop intended as a desktop replacement costing several thousand.
Honestly, I don't think I would have used my laptop much in college. They are an extra 5-10 lbs to lug around and are easily stolen or dropped. I also think back to the kid that whipped his laptop out in my Java class, and how everyone was thinking about how big of a nerd he was.
If you just want email, note taking, etc., a third option may be a PocketPC device. They work great for email, and many have the option to drop a 802.11b card in the back of them.