It's really more up to her if she can shoot instinctive. Some people just can't get into the swing of it. As far as safety is concerned, it's according to how far back the string is. With her being a new shooter, I really wouldn't recommend it. There are TONS of bows online all the time and one that will fit her draw length can probably be had for pretty cheap. With you and her being tight budgeted, I'm sure you wont find a fancy speed burner affordably but I'm sure you could probably find one for 150-200 range that would be excellent for her to learn on. Cut some expenses like eating out (I know the grad student diets all too well) and you would be shocked how fast you could save up a couple hundred to put her on a bow that fits her.