I have found that in classes the light weight machines don't always perform as desired. I shutter when a students brings one to a FMQ quilting class and even clases that are more than just piecing two pieces of fabric together.
They don't usually have the extension tables which make any quilting easier.
The recommendation of Singer Featherweight is an excellent one. I highly recommend it if you an find one within your price range. If you find one without it's case then get a Bowling ball bag and take the wire rack out. Fit perfectly. Another thought. If you are taking a machine quilting class, then take to class the machine you intend to use at home and not the travel machine.