Yes, the student should have a headjoint that is easy to get a good tone from.
Kara's point is that a machine-cut (very little difference from headjoint to headjoint) silverplated CY-cut headjoint will be very, very similar to a solid silver CY machine-cut headjoint- enough that it won't make much, if any difference, so it isn't likely worth the extra money to pay for the solid silver one.
A DIFFERENT cut, such as the EC, (which only comes as solid silver, but can be machine or hand cut) might be worth the money, but not likely until later- say after two years or so.

Thanks Tibbie! That is exactly what I was trying to say. I am terrible sometimes with words and trying to get my point across. Sorry if I confused anyone.