Hello Rachel: As a teacher for 25 yrs. I can tell you that I very much enjoyed teaching adults. But not all teachers do. Some consider it a waste of time. Adults bring many assets to class - they are thoughtful, hard working, and are there solely because they want to be. I would advise you to shop around, go to different studios and see how the teacher relates to the adults. Does she teach in a serious manner or does she consider it just a throw-a-way class? Talk to her. I help to moderate a board on line which has had several discussions on this matter. If you are interested in what was said you can e-mail me at ORZAK@aol.com and I will give you the link. Practicing by yourself will never work. Dance can only be learned with a teacher. Everyday the greatest dancers in the world get up and go to class with a teacher. You can give yourself a barre at home, but that will never be the same as learning from a teacher in a class. As for private lessons - they are good as an addition to regular class - but cannot replace it. Learning to dance also means learning to dance with others - to learn how to use the space around you means you need others around you. And, you can learn from the other students in class. Lots of luck to you, Basheva[/i]