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I find the iPad a much better reading device than a laptop, desktop, or iPhone. I don't feel like the iPad is quite to the level of computer replacement unless you are a very casual computer user. I use my desktop less and less, but I still need to use it from time to time, although sometimes I use it from my iPad.
If it were me, and I could only have one device, I'd go with a laptop, an Air if that has sufficient power/storage because I'd want the focus to be on portability and functionality. If I could afford two devices, I'd get the iPad, because it's more portable than a laptop and, when paired with a keyboard, just as easy to write on. It can capture audio, and I believe there are note-taking apps that will capture audio while allowing you to take written notes. It's a whole lot more sophisticated then the pen and paper I used to use or the laptop I used to type my notes on. More and more of the literature is going to be available electronically, including textbooks, and the iPad is probably the superior reading device for those materials. But every now and then you need better multi-tasking or need to access a Flash-dependent site or need to manipulate files in a way the iPad's non-file system makes difficult. So a "real" computer is probably still necessary or at least helpful for a college student. If I had an iPad, I'd focus on functionality and thrift for the "real" computer, like a standard MacBook or and iMac (assuming we're in Mac territory). Portability wouldn't be a priority because between the iPad and the iPhone, portability would be covered. But a laptop still might make more sense for a college student, because often aspects of your living situation are beyond your control, and the place you have to set up a computer may not always be the best place to get any work done.
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