In the age of cheap subscriptions, cut down indie versions & student licensing, I don't know why anyone wouldn't just go with the industry standard software if you are serious about getting a job. I remember starting out with the free Wings 3D modeling package and that was because 3DS Max cost $4,000 and youtube tutorials…
Okay, I think Maya it is for now ^.^ I figure character art which is my goal will benefit from being able to work in maya effectively as well as rigging/ animation in there too. I find that I am good at moving between programs, so hopefully it won't be too much of a struggle if I ever need 3dsmax. Just a bit of beginner…