SLR or point and shoot camera?

I'm studying abroad next semester and I'm looking for a camera to take with me. The size and weight isn't really important. I'm a camera novice, but what I'm concerned about is getting the biggest bang for my buck. I have a rather constricted budget (because I'm a poor college student), so if I sprung for an SLR, I would probably have to just stick with the kit lens. I've heard that there are cameras that are not DSLRs, but have most of the same features and capabilities, just with no interchangeable lenses. Since I probably couldn't afford other lenses anyway, what kind of cameras that fit that description are there? I've also found a Nikon D3100 within my price range. If I can't afford additional lenses, is that any better than some time of midrange camera? Anything helps! Thanks!

Added (1). My most prevalent question is whether the lowest level SLR (ie. Nikon D3100) is worth it with ONLY the kit lens.

Added (2). If I were to decide against an SLR, what's the next best thing?

Get an SLR second hand from someone online

SLR by far! Canon 6D and you won't go wrong

SLR
I've heard that there are cameras that are not DSLRs, but have most of the same features and capabilities, just with no interchangeable lenses. Since I probably couldn't afford other lenses anyway, what kind of cameras that fit that description are there?
True check it out on Cnet.com

On your follow-up question… You will soon outgrow the kit lens and get irritated that you need to keep cropping and losing image quality.
Consider getting a Sony A37 or A57 (or even the older A580) which will accept and meter perfectly all old Minolta Auto lenses dating back to the late 1980's. Pentax has excellent back compatibility too.
For example: http://www.amazon.com/...00836H2CC/
Think about getting the classic Minolta f4 70-210 'Beercan' lens for it off Ebay for around $125.
http://www.dyxum.com/lenses/Minolta-AF-70-210-F4-(beercan)_lens48.html

SLR is better, try to visit http://astore.amazon.com/...s.canon-20 for compare it

Go for the Nikon D3100. The kit lens should serve you well. You can always buy additional lenses later.