I was in a similar situation as you about a year ago. Flew planes in Middle School and High School, but then went to college and got out of it. I had since graduated and was in grad school now and had a little more time and money and wanted to get back into it.

I ended up getting a Spektrum DX6i and have been very pleased with my choice. Worked great with my .40 trainer I started out with, now am using it with my Ultra Sport .40. I have dual aileron set up, and it does that well, as well as dual rates, programming, etc. Also have a GWS Slow STick for park flying I modified with a V-tail and does that, too.

And it will continue to do everything I want for the foreseeable future and has thus far been a great investment. I'd either try to pick up something like that, or a Futuaba equivalent, as it should last you a while. Or maybe try to get a basic 4-ch set up used that will get you in the air - probably someone at your club who as one they'd sell cheap or even for free.. Then you can worry about getting a more fancy radio later.