Commuter Cycles? What's best? Suggestions?

[LoXish]

Well, I'm a 19 year old college student and I need to buy a bike for the coming semester.. I will be using it for commuting mostly, just around campus... I would like it to last me through the next three years atleast, albeit with a few upgrades if necessary.

Any ideas? I really don't know where to start here...

 

[Conniebiker]

Giant and Haro make some good bikes for the budget. I know it can be hard to take this advice, but it comes from experience. Don't cheap out. Expect a good one to be in the 300-350 range. Too much below that and you will get a fork of marginal quality or wheels of marginal durability. More initially invested will save you down the road in reliability.