Thanks for the quick reply!
I'm looking online to see where I can find a authorized seller for JR passes, and I've found two offices. Before I go in, I sort of want to have an idea of which rail pass best fits this itinerary that you all have graciously helped me with. Should I go with a 4-day or 7-day pass? Is there a student discount since I am a student (at least a graduate student under 25 yrs old)?
Thanks once again. You all don't know how grateful I am to have connected with everyone on here!