Ok - I see why you reposted after posting elsewhere and let me say welcome aboard. Interesting question especially with the climate & area you will mostly be in. First off I would ask if you wish to ride off road at all or do you prefer the idea of flying down the roads. Are you planning on riding to classes on your bike at all, especially during the winter? Third, which type of bike feels better - flat handlebars where you are sitting more upright or the road bike style. Answering those would help out a lot.
Some generalizations and why I asked what I did. If you prefer to ride off road - a road bike won't suit you to much and vice versa. Riding to classes especially during the winter lends itself more to a mountain bike for the occasional going over curbs & the snow / ice on the roads & sidewalks (additionally you don't want to spend a lot on your bike and having it get ripped off while you are in class). The third is pretty self explanatory. The most important things when you figure out what type of riding you want to do & where is find a LBS (Local Bike Shop) that you are comfortable with and that the bike fits / you feel good on it. Please do not try the I can get used to it routine - get one that you feel comfortable on - later as you stretch out more, get in better cycling shape your bike choices will change. (Handlebars farther forward if you are on a road bike etc...)
For the LBS, shop around plenty & get lots of opinions from the people there on options, what works & what doesn't. Make sure you also get out of college row & try some other shops further from the school if the ones close to the school are in the this is hot right now & you will good mentality.
FYI - don't forget to check out cyclo-cross bikes that are basically the best of both worlds. I hope this helps & if you need anything else let us know. Thanks
