Mac or Windows computer question (no fan boys please)?

I'm getting a laptop for college and I'm debating whether to get a Windows based PC or Apple Macintosh laptop (MacBook Pro). My friend is a high tech professional, going to study programming this fall at Akron University. He knows everything there is to know about computers. He, of course, is a Windows Fan Boy, but gives intelligent advice and says to go with a Hewlett Packard (HP) laptop. I have always liked the looks of Apple products and have been attracted by the new MacBook Pro 15". Can you please give intelligent advice on whether I should get an HP laptop or an Apple laptop, please? And please, no fan boy ranting.