Maya is more a group-tool than an individual one. I mean: it is used in studios by several people who work together. Although it has lost some of its plumes, it is still a reference for people who don't know any better (I am NOT saying it isn't a very good tool, only that it doesn't have that supremacy aura anymore in many 3D circles. Max is now about the most expensive. No that easy to learn I am told, but by far the most used in the game industry. Lightwave is also a bit slowing down. All three are high end, but if it is for finding a job...3D land is changing, and who knows what will be in two years from now? So say you have to go for Max or Maya is an opinion on what now is, but a guess for where the future's concerned. My suggestion is: go and talk with the teachers, and if possible, see them in action. And decide based on that. A good teacher is more important than an app. If you ever go to a studio, they will look at what you made (technical and creativity) and then thy will ask you what app. If you know one, you can easily learn another one. But if you're not creative, they won't take you. My two cents

I have tried prudent planning long enough. From now I'll be mad. (Rumi)