I second the suggestion to get a second pc, especially if you learning, no doubt you will be using linux sites a lot to find your way through, it will be a lot easier if you have 2 computers, have linux on one and use the other to search for information to solve your current dilemma, will be a pain in the arse if you have to keep booting between linux and windows to find solutions to your problems.
How often do jobs pop up for help desk, also whats the starting wage in one of those jobs?