In my undergraduate program (business), I never used my notebook during class and I rarely used it on campus. Computer labs are conveniently located in main areas of the campus and most of them had Microsoft Office suites to work on my papers.
It really depends whether your professors require a notebook for the construction management course. I believe CIS and CS students use industry standard software during class lectures and students prefer using their notebook than the class workstation.
I would go with the mobile CPU that manages battery life better and something that is light and mobile. I like the 12"/13" laptops.
Welcome to the Cal Poly Forums JMiller. 