RE: Cessnas
I'd guess as a college student your priorities are 1) time and 2) money, and you should bear those priorities in mind when you're making up your mind. Given that, the GP ARF looks like the best value. I doubt you have the time for the TF, which requires 200 hrs. minimum to do it right (i.e. you won't be flying next summer). I'd think getting one built would have to cost at least $500 on top of material costs, so I doubt that's an option. Also, note that there's an even more affordable option in 60-65" class, that is the Hangar 9 Cessna 40. I haven't seen one in person, but it doesn't look like as attractive a model as the GP. Obviously, neither is a modern 182, but I'd say that would have to be tertiary to 1) and 2) above right now for you. Good luck.