Good for you for taking a class! I started by taking a class at my local fabric store. She didn't spend any time on thread choices, or other goodies but focused on just learning how to do it. We started my just doing loop de loops like written "e" . By the end of the class we were writing our names in thread. Personally, I think we learned better by just focusing on the stitching and not sidetracking into what gadgets we could use. Besides, the list of gadgets is ENDLESS. That and everyone's opinion of what's essential and anothers is different.
Best wishes with your stitching!