Some of you may not be aware that MSDNAA offers FREE software for post-secondary students taking computer related programs/courses.
Depending on what school you go to and what program/courses you are taking, you may be elegible for a FREE download copy of Windows 7 and Visual Studios 2008 Professional and more. If your program does not qualify for FREE download, you can still buy it for an insanely low price. Windows 7 is $23, Visual Studios 2008 is $19.
Quick go to
http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/academic/dd861349.aspx to see if your school/course qualify!
I am taking the ECET program at BCIT and I can download the above programs for free.