Hello Wendy,
Generally with items like laptops and PC's, it comes down to a number of factors.
What will you be using it for? e.g Are you a hardcore gamer, everyday web surfer or graphic designer?
Do you have any preferences regarding brand and colour/design?
Operating system preference, such as MAC, Windows or LInux?
What are the minimum requirements needed for programs that you are going to be running on it
Etc. etc.
If you can give a general overview on these areas and anything else that you think may be useful then i will try to give my opinion on what i think would suit you best, but as with everything, peoples opinions differ due to life experiences and what people are used to. So this may not be as straight foward as you may hope :(
But again, i hope i can help!!!!! 
I'll try my best atleast!
