If you're in college, and will only use the bike to commute, then get a single speed. almost zero maintenance, cheap to acquire, lock it up anywhere and not worry about some dip**** denting your tube. believe it or not, people are generally pretty self centered.

I go to school too, and I commute on a caadx disc with ultegra (on most days) because I have an office to put it in. I also use it for training rides and stuff. If it's anything more than $400, I would not trust my bike to be left outside, especially not on a college campus.