Well let's start with a little background info.

If I get into my college course I get a free laptop which I can customize to any way I like (software wise). I also get to keep it. Forever. So I was thinking, it would give me a chance to test Linux. I can't test it on my current computer as it's my parent's and they are grumpy old IE users who would get angry if I changed it (even though I am currently quite happy with Windows XP professional I'm always open to trying new things. I never would have found firefox if I didn't and I'm glad I did). Anyhoo I might give it a go to see if I like it when i get my new laptop. But to anyone who has tried it. Is it any good? What's the interface like and such?