HI,
I was also looking for topology optimization a whil ago. I ended up using Fusion 360, you can get the full version free and legal(since you are a student).
With this tutorial you have a good start point I think. Results are quite decent in a little time.
If you mean you are not satisfied with the shape that came out, what exactly do you mean? If you refer to the gnawed edges, I think that is normal. You need to remodel it clean. Like in this video:
https://youtu.be/lyTULzvHhXw?t=4m58s
Regards!