All of the vintage bike enthusiasts seems to forget a few points the op stated and got all emotional about their hobby.

1. Very first bike. So he's probably wants something he doesn't have to upgrade or work on. Probably doesn't even have the tools to do so and certainly doesn't want to pay shop labour.

2. College student with a job. No time to tinker like the vintage enthusiasts and no time to scour garage sales for that wonderful deal that he wouldn't be able to spot anyways.

Just go to bikesdirect or citygrounds order a bike in your price range.