Getting a digital slr camera !

So today is my birthday! (yay me!) and i decided to get a digital slr camera because i will be going to college next year and will be taking some photography classes.
I don’t know much about cameras but the one i am leaning towards is this one.
http://www.nikonusa.com/Find-Your-Nikon/Product/Digital-SLR/25472/D3100.html

The retail here in the United States is about $699.99.
My price range is about $700 but if there is a better camera for not too much more i will consider it.
So i ask you guys/girls what camera should i buy? it can be any company and around the $400-$700 price range and must be a digital slr camera because they look cool. =)
thanks.
Answer #1
take a look at here:
www.imaging-resource.com
Answer #2
This is a great site for camera reviews. You can’t go wrong with a Nikon, or Canon.
http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/