Having looked into the ebay page you've linked, the product there is not a MacBook/Pro, but instead
is a more basic MacBook 13-inch model with less graphic and performance capabilities in that vintage.
To expect a (used) five+ year old portable computer to last and function without repair or replacement
of consumables or moving parts, would be an unlikely prospect; even if the unit were completely restored
by an expert. However, depending on the college course levels of intensity expected and coursework can
vary depending on the topic, an older portable Mac could work for awhile and probably do OK.
The model should be compared against a database of specification and upgrade information so you can
see what system it may be able to use (if RAM is upgraded, & probably replacement hard disk drive, too.)
Most newer applications necessary to perform tasks likely will require a later OS X than an old Mac may
be able to run in 4 to 6 years from now; and an already 5+ year old model will probably be looking weak
well before then. Expect the hard drive and battery will both need to be replaced, and any other parts that
could wear out, may in the course of time. Like any.
See the various portable Apple computer models in http://everymac.com to compare the different models.
Also, to look into download of MacTracker from http://mactracker.ca can get you a helpful application from
their site, for free.
The MacBook Pro models (13-inch with optical drive, is still available from Apple, new; non-Retina display)
can be rather durable if not dropped. Newer models use a different battery and so you'd need to consider
at some point an authorized trained service technician would have to replace parts or upgrade them for the
unit to continue, and going forward some parts may be harder to get.
The 13-inch MacBook (not pro) was discontinued in 2010 model, the series began in 2006 with first Intel
based portable that replaced the PowerPC G4 models of iBookG4 and PowerBookG4. The new MacBook
is an all-new model, and not in the same category as the old series. So the better model to get for a longer
duration would be the MacBook/Pro. Older models may require upgrade in hardware before newer software
could be used in them, but you have to check the product specs for support between hardware & software.
http://eshop.macsales.com/shop/Apple_Systems/Used/Macs_and_Tablets
http://www.wegenermedia.com/ - mac sales & service + repaired macs
http://www.powerbookmedic.com/ - mac parts & service
https://www.ifixit.com/Device/Mac_Laptop - Mac portable repair guides
http://store.apple.com/us/browse/home/specialdeals/mac - as-new official Apple refurbished
So, be sure to check the actual model and compare the values, and realize as time goes forward the older
hardware will likely be left behind (and faster, given new developments) so check to see which models had
a positive history of service because those may survive a bit longer. By looking into companies whose main
business is to repair and restore these older models, you may be able to get an idea of their cost to upkeep.
Apple support online has tech specs, too, so here's a page to look into MacBook Pro model specs:
Apple - Support - Technical Specifications - MacBook Pro
The 15-inch MacBook/Pro has higher graphics and processor units, than the 13-inch. However the newer
models do not have optical drives, and other features were changed. When you do more research you
may want to rephrase a new topic and post again to see if someone with a crystal ball can look ahead.
Be careful to not confuse models, prices, specifications, or other details between these different build model
MacBook named products. The MacBook Pro is likely the better value, depending on which one & what specs.
Sorry to not have a simple answer.
Good luck & happy computing! 🙂
