OK, well I think we can agree that different students are comfortable with different screen sizes. From these posts we know that some are happy to code, etc., on a 13", while others want something larger. I’m sure the OP can decide what size is best for them.
The main thing that we seem to agree on is that more than the base 8 RAM is generally required. I think that more than the 256GB base is desirable, but not necessary (external storage is cheaper and can be far larger). I doubt an M2 is required, since M1 came out in Nov 2020, but the OP should check just in case.
At my dds school (ga tech), they are recommending at least 16 gb of RAM and a 512 gb hard drive for all majors (with possible additional requirements based on major) so not sure the basic MacBook Air would suffice. I’d call the school and ask.
Hey all, sorry about the late response. Completely forgot that I made this post. From the time that I made my original post to now, I got in contact with some computer science majors that went to the same college I will go to. They ended up recommending the M1 air with 8GB of RAM so I went with that, especially with an additional $50 off of the original discount. Thankfully the dual monitor situation is not an issue since I have an iPad to use alongside my MacBook. If I do end up regretting my decision, I guess I do at least have the Costco return policy to help.