I find GIMP fine to use for most things, it's a good PS substitute. But if you can afford PS, then probably you should invest in it. Like I've said, GIMP is a good program, but I think most people will say to go with PS.

Um, I don't know how many on here are post-secondary students but for those of you who are, you should check out the bookstore on your campus because you can probably get PS at a discount. Here at the U of A, they sell it for ~$200.