What's a goood 1st flash/light meter combo?

I'm a photography student (been shooting since '02) down at VCU and I've yet to purchase a flash unit or light meter. I shoot with a Rebel XT, AE-1P, and a Rebel Ti. I'm looking for something that's on the cheaper side but reliable and will work with at least the XT and Ti, the flash that is. I want something that I can use easily on site as I'm planning on doing freelance photojournalism work in the not too distant future. I'm under the impression that a Canon 430ex is a good way to go and something along the lines of a Sekonic L308s would be a good way to go for the money. Any other suggestions would be much appreciated.

Spring the extra bucks for a 580 EX. The new ones (580 EX II's) are pricey, but you can get one of the first versions on the web for about the price of a new 430 EX. Don't worry about getting a light meter unless you are using studio strobes.

Both of your choices will work quite well. The 430EX is a great flash with all the options you could use (except master capability for ETTL). Not that familiar with the L-308 but the L-358 is a very useful, full featured meter. I know lots of members have the L-308 and are very pleased with it.

I am not sure the L-308 offers a percentage readout compared to ambient lighting. This is very nice to have, particularly when you are shooting in strange lighting conditions.

Sweet, i may do that as my birthday present to myself. But i'm still debating getting some cheaper vivitar flashes so that I could use them with some stands and umbrellas as my super basic portable lighting set up for school too.

I went with the Sunpak 383s and the Sekonic 358 and am well satisfied...or will be, once I figure out all the ins and outs of using them!!

Be patient with the manual for the 358. Take your time and do some google searching.