Solid laptop for college (to last 3+ years)

I'm using 529 money to buy a laptop for my son, who's about to start his sophomore year. He's probably going to be in a fairly mainstream (e.g., business) major. I want this laptop to last him at least through the next three years, so I don't want to skimp on RAM, SSD size (SSD is a must), processor (but looking for overkill), graphics. I love my Surface Pro 3 (home) and Pro 4 (work), but my son says he prefers a more conventional laptop design (although he would probably consider a 2-in-1).

General Questions

1) What is your budget? Around $1,500, but willing to pay less.

2) What size notebook would you prefer?
c. Thin and Light; 13" - 14" screen
3) Where will you buying this notebook? US.

4) Are there any brands that you prefer or any you really don't like?
a. Like: Mainstream brand
b. Dislike:
5) Would you consider laptops that are refurbished/redistributed? No

6) What are the primary tasks will you be performing with this notebook? Microsoft Office apps, light gaming

7) Will you be taking the notebook with you to different places, leaving it on your desk or both? Taking (all the more reason for requiring SSD).

8) Will you be playing games on your notebook? If so, please state which games or types of games? Some, but not sure what (not a heavy gamer)

9) How many hours of battery life do you need? The more the better. At least 4-5, preferably 10+ (is that realistic, despite manufacturers' claims?).

10) Would you prefer to see the notebooks you're considering before purchasing it or buying a notebook on-line without seeing it is OK? Not a dealbreaker, but prefer to handle first.

11) What OS do you prefer? Windows (Windows 7 / 8), Mac OS, Linux, etc. Windows 10

Screen Specifics

12) From the choices below, what screen resolution(s) would you prefer? Keep in mind screen size in conjunction with resolution will play a large role in overall viewing comfort level. Everyone is different. Some like really small text, while others like their text big and easy to read. (Scroll down to see screen resolution information.) Not sure.

13) Do you want a glossy/reflective screen or a matte/non-glossy screen? (Scroll down to see explanations.)
Prefer matte, but resigned to glossy.

Build Quality and Design

14) Are the notebook's looks and stylishness important to you? Somewhat (for my son).

15) When are you buying this laptop? Immediately

16) How long do you want this laptop to last? At least 3 years.

Notebook Components

17) How much hard drive space do you need? Do you want a SSD drive? SSD a must, at least 256GB.

18) Do you need an optical drive? If yes, a DVD Burner, Blu-ray Reader or Blu-Ray Burner? No.

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Solid laptop for college (to last 3+ years)