The Online Family answers:

First, make a list of everything the computer will be used for. For example, she might need to: research topics online, write and print papers, or email professors. Will she need to take notes in class or even take exams on a laptop? Will she need to do actual computer programming or graphic design?  Is so, then she'll need specific software. Her college or instructors might even offer a list of basic computer features for all incoming freshmen. Next, find out about Internet access. Do dorms or libraries offer dial-up or wireless access? If her campus is wireless, make sure her new computer or laptop has a wireless card (should say "802.11" included). Also, find out about printing capabilities -- her campus might offer wireless printing or she might need her own printer for those late-night writing sessions. Generally speaking, many college students prefer laptops over desktops so they can cart them to class, work at cafes or the student union -- or even bring them home during holidays.