What's the deal with MacBook's in higher learning?  I mean, really?  In a 250 seat lecture hall today, I just glanced up and counted 8 within eyesight.  Eight!  It's obvious these people didn't pay for them with their own money.  Last time I checked, they go for $1,200+--what college kid has that kind of money?!  Okay, so mom and pop probably put up the cash, but why did they choose an Apple product?  My school doesn't require laptops, but they do recommend the MacBook.  Are they being compensated for this recommendation?  Probably.  I just don't really understand the appeal.  PC products are just as reliable and far cheaper for comparable configurations.  Must be the cool factor.  Kinda glad I'm not trendy, I suppose; more of a realist with a profound sense of objectivity.