The only modeling program I've used is google Sketchup, but I don't think that really counts. Is modeling hard to learn? What are the best programs for modeling and texturing? For a project I may want to make an item for TF2 or a different source game if it is enjoyable.
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Oh forgot to mention to. Then you can also animate in Maya which is WAY WAY better than using craptakular After Effects. After Effects is for 2D crap and pretty much "commercial" look. You can also bring your model or environment into an engine. I use Unreal 3. Waiting for our school to get Unreal 4.