One word: USED

You may see my name on a lot of bass postings, but i played drums for about ten years before I switched to the bass. Don't go to guitar center, find a drum shop in town. They will probably have a good selection of used drums. Pearl, Ludwig, Tama, Drum Workshop (dw)are all good choices. Don't worry if they look a little beat up, just make sure the hardware (stands, etc) is solid and can be adjusted to different heights and that is will stay put where you set it to. Personally, I recommend sticking (no pun intended) to a four piece set. For cymbals try to get Zildjian or Paiste (or Sabian). Go for a highhat, ride and one crash to start with. If there are no cracks showing the cymbal is probably ok. Hope this helps.