I'm finally getting a laptop! (Help, please?)

[Momiji]

Since I'm graduating high school in a couple of months, I just found out that I'm getting a laptop for college.

Anyway, I know nothing about laptops, so I thought it would be a good idea to ask all of you computer geniuses what I should get. I know what I WANT, but I don't know exactly what it is.

Anyway, I'm looking for:

• A decent processor and video card, nothing way over-the-top is necessary
• A battery that lasts a decent amount of time
• Windows XP
• A fairly large hard drive
• Wireless capabilities
• Oh, and one that can play DVDs too. I don't know if that's standard issue nowadays or not. x_x

Basically, whatever makes it last a while is good. Also, I don't know much about hardware, but something that won't overheat is nice too.

As for price range, I was told that it would be best to make sure it's under $1000, but I'm sure I could go over if I promise to pay back however much I went over.

Anyway, I'm sorry I don't know what to ask for, and what I'm asking for isn't very specific, but I'm hoping I could get some recommendations here. Thanks in advance!