Thanks for your help! I do also have another computer that has three GB ram which I could consider using; the only problem is it is still using Windows XP which I understand that Pro Tools only works with Windows 7.
But, I don't intent to buy the Pro Tools Student Edition till I find someone who is willing to pay me to do audio work for them. If, of course, I could find a good opportunity like that I could always keep on the look out for a used Apple Macbook, which would probably be the best way of going...