Welcome to PR.

A few questions to help tie down suggestions:

Do you have an upper limit cost in mind?

Are you looking for any special features such as Image Stabilization?

Do you need or want a flash hot shoe?

Being a photo major, I imagine you want as much control via exposure, white balance, ISO selection, etc. That may help you to limit the choices.A LOT of the P/S have only partial control, though that isn't necessarily bad. For snapshots the level of 'full' control needed may be minimal.

How compact do you want, that also will alter your decisions? How many megapix are you wanting?

Look at the camera reviews for the at least 5 megapixel and above cameras.

http://www.photographyreview.com/sf-...oint_and_shoot

Also check the pro reviews at:
http://www.photographyreview.com/proreviewscrx.aspx

Remember the big trade show, PMA, is just around the corner and several new models have already been announced by various manufacturers.

There are several cameras either recently reviewed or under review that you also might want to consider. I am currently testing and reviewing a Fujifilm camera. It has given me a lot of food for thought as to what my next compact purchase might include in its features. Check out the various sizes and styles in person to see what fits your hand and style as well as budget!

Let us know what else we can offer/suggest/etc.

On another note: Post some photos if you'd like. We always are looking for something new!