Hobby Lobby carries a nice "mid range" set of pastels. They're more expensive than the student grade stuff, but they're not going to break the bank. And again, if you can get a coupon, they're even cheaper. I paid about $24 for mine, without a coupon or sale.
This is the set. 36 colors. Not the best range for blush tones, but enough to get you started.
The good thing about water color paints is that they are VERY forgiving. If you mess up, just wet a q-tip, (I like to use those tapered ones) and wipe away the mistake! If you like the look of painted details but are struggling with acrylics, definitely go for watercolors.