Smart girl! I think that's a wise choice. Riding aluminum just kills me...my hands begin to hurt after about half an hour. I can understand where it's use would be favorable, like for a crit or time trail bike, but for anything longer than that, there's just no beating steel. In my opinion, of course .

Definately can relate to the money thing...have you thought of getting a job at a shop? Pro deals on bikes are a great perk.