Programming! You can never go wrong with this skill.
My husband is a programmer so I know what I am talking about. (•ิ‿•ิ)
You are right, you need a decent laptop or computer when you are serious about programming. I think my husband's "baby" cost him more than me. BUT, they last for a good amount of years.
Good luck! I wish you all the best for learning this skill as well as for the contest.
PS: Thanks for the invite.