Laptop/Ultrabook for grad school, USA, 14" or less, $1200, tops

I've filled out the form, if that helps. While $1200 is my limit, I'd prefer to be a couple hundred under that. Thanks for any help!

• Purpose (netbook, ultraportable, mainstream, gaming, desktop replacement, etc.): Portability, note-taking, excel/STATA/ArcGIS, video streaming

• Screen size preference: 14" or less

• OS preference (Windows/ Mac/ Linux): I've only used windows, but I'm open.

• Performance requirements (video, CAD, etc.): video, large excel/STATA/ArcGIS sets

• Method of computer support (office supplier, college bookstore, self support): no preference

• Brand preferences and reasons (already owned accessories, familiarity, business compatibility): no preference

• Any particular style that you like (examples are great):

• Which of the following qualities would you prefer? (Choose one, the other, or balanced)

• Long battery life -vs- Low weight: low weight (but ultrabooks are ideal)

• Build quality -vs- Low price: Price. I have other expenses before school

• Low noise/heat -vs- High performance: balanced. high heat always weirds me out, but I don't want to sacrifice performance

Would you pay a premium for something that has:

• High resolution screen: not particularly

• A great keyboard: No, but I'd pay to avoid a bad keyboard

• A great touchpad/mouse buttons: no

• Great audio: not particularly

List any features that are critical: (e.g. Optical drive, USB 3.0, SD card slot, ethernet port, HDMI port, bluetooth, VGA port, removable battery, glossy screen, matte screen, etc.) Nothing essential