Well I have been using Gmax (a very old, free clone of 3DS Max) and just found out that you can get 3DS Max (a VERY expensive program) along with any other program they made free if you are currently in school. All you have to do is put your information in (First/Last name, school, school's website, etc) and you now have access to this software free of charge. Normally it costs around $3000 for just ONE of these programs, so anyone who wants to try their hand at modeling can + should sign up for this.
(You must be a student, a faculty member)
Have fun, I know I will :D
http://students.autodesk.com/In oder to qualify however
YOU MUST BE IN HIGHSCHOOL/COLLEGE!