New Computer maybe?

[wisdom_of_trees]

So, I need a new computer. I'd like something that I can use in my graphic arts classes and even something that I can upgrade when I start to work professionally. My school gives students a really nice computer loan at a very low interest rate, so price is no worry.
I was thinking about getting another Dell...I really love my old Dimension (but she just can't keep up anymore.) I know Macs and PC's are about on par today in terms of graphic platforms...but damn, I hate Macs. And I can't tinker around in them! I like being able to crack open my box and fix or replace things.
So, if anyone has any suggestions I'm very much open to listening to them.
(I'm waiting on you MeliHitchcock.)

[Flake]

I like being able to crack open my box and fix or replace things.

Then build your own?
It's always better value than a prebuilt assuming that you do the research and have the confidence that you can do it.

The less stressful option might be to get a mobo/cpu/ram bundle and just plug that into the rest.

Easy option, get a decent Dell/Compaq and jam it full of ram and gfx cards.

[Meli Hitchcock]

If you want to learn about the guts, like Flake said, build your own. That's what I ended up doing and I can troubleshoot just about any hardware issues now. ;)

Depending on what you want the computer to handle will depend on what you need to get. So what do you want to do with it?

EDIT
I usually buy most my stuff from New Egg too. Never got a bad item from them and prices are decent. Plus their shipping is pretty darn quick.

[wisdom_of_trees]

I'm not much of a computer gamer at all, so I'm guessing I won't need a super high end graphics card (will I?)
I was considering making a computer from scratch, the boyfriend was all for that. I just don't want to end up with $2000 worth of computer parts at my feet when I mess this thing up. Yeah, I think I might be a tad scared to go down that road.

I've never heard of New Egg though. I was just thinking that it's a blasted shame there wasn't a Fry's around here for miles.