Breed Suggestions for a first time dog owner?

I'm thinking of getting a dog after I'm done college, class lasts all day and I wouldn't be able to give it the time and attention I would like to right now so please....

Don't post dogs that are up for adoption now.

I'm more than likely going to be looking for one near the end of next year, so I don't want to see dogs currently up for adoption. ^^

Most of the people of ala have had/do have dogs and I'd like to know what breed the people of ala would suggest as a good breed for a first time dog owner ^^

I don't want a small dog though, like chihuahua's, I don't have anything against them, I'd just prefer a dog at or above my knee's.

I was thinking a German shepherd or a Shepherd of some kind, what do you guys think? ^^

(Please don't suggest things like Husky's or Akita's, as they are known for their high energy and stubbornness [not all, just generally]).