Welcome to FAOL
I see from your profile you live in Iowa. What type of fish are you wanting the rod for? You mentioned a used 5 - 8wt. Are you planning on fishing for trout in the NE part of the state or bass, bluegills and such? If you are wanting a rod for trout, I would recommend a 8" - 8 1/2' 4wt. If you are fishing for warm water species then a 6wt. I also see from your profile that you are a nursing student, so I would imagine you don't have allot of $$$ to spend right now. I am a member of the Hawkeye Fly Fishing Association and our local Chapter Cental Iowa Fly Fishers. I'll ask around and see if someone have a rod, reel and line they may want to part with and isn't wanting an arm and a leg for it. If I find anything, I'll send you a pm.
Dave
" If a man is truly blessed, he returns home from fishing to the best catch of his life." Christopher Armour