Replying to Need a laptop but which one?

ok so im going to be living in Vail for 10 months for school. and i need a laptop, but the school wont take  macs. i am going to be using it a lot like every day, i need a light very portable one. that will be good for school work, and some video editing. so i was thinking a bout getting a dell, if anyone uses dells, are they good? but im also looking for one around $900-1000. if you have any suggestions please let me no.