Dual boot with Linux:
http://distrowatch.com
Some software worth checking out:
Gimp - Photoshop alternative
Mixcraft - Kinda like Garage Band for Windows
Multimedia Fusion 2 - Easy game/program creator
Eclipse - Java IDE (A good place to start if you've ever considered coding)
Libre Office - Microsoft Office alternative
Fraps - Screen recorder
Malware Bytes - Free malware scanner with an incredible history/reputation
Super Smash Flash 2 - Google it
True Crypt - There's something strangely liberating about encrypting your homework with military grade protection
(I left out the assumed, such as Chrome/FireFox, Steam, etc)
Update: Winrar, VLC Media Player, Dropbox, and several browser plugins: AdBlock, Do Not Track Plus, HTTPS Everywhere, and Web Of Trust
