I'm just curious how the bulk of you have obtained your software. I recently graduated from school (as a film major) and now that I'm out, really have few resources and need to get myself started.

The bulk of my peers have pirated FCP and the Adobe Creative Suite, but is there anyway around that?

I've been offered freelance editing work, but don't have what I need and being fresh out of school and in need of work, I don't have several grand to blow on the software I need.

Are there any grants for recent graduates out there or employment possibilities that provide the basics (in terms of post-production)?

Thanks a bunch!
Melody (aka Medly)