Before you purchase which ever rifle it is that you get, I encourage you to go check for ammo availability and price for which ever cartridge you decide on. Ammo cost is a big factor in how much you'll be able to shoot, particularly on a grad school budget.
Also know where you are going to shoot. For me, my longest easily accesible range is 200 yards. If I want to try my hand at varmint hunting a small bore with frangible ammo is ok, as they will minimize issues with richochets, but a big bore with it's tougher bullets isn't around my populated area, that's why they are banned for deer hunting.
I had a .308 & went to a .223 for ammo price and more usability of the cartridge for the shooting opportunities where I live. The only drawback I find is that the bullet holes are harder to see through the spotting scope @ 200 yards.
Also know where you are going to shoot. For me, my longest easily accesible range is 200 yards. If I want to try my hand at varmint hunting a small bore with frangible ammo is ok, as they will minimize issues with richochets, but a big bore with it's tougher bullets isn't around my populated area, that's why they are banned for deer hunting.
I had a .308 & went to a .223 for ammo price and more usability of the cartridge for the shooting opportunities where I live. The only drawback I find is that the bullet holes are harder to see through the spotting scope @ 200 yards.