I suggest a vintage Singer 301 for taking to class. They show up regularly on Craigslist, they're lightweight (with a handle on top), simple, and beautiful (choice of black-and-gold, tan, or tan-and-cream). Put it in the trunk of your car securely so it doesn't shift and you don't have to worry about seat belts or projectiles. You do have to worry about the bobbin case, however. It's the same one as the Featherweight and the last I checked they were selling for about $60 each. Sad to say, but people steal them.