Looking for a good starter camera. Preferably Nikon?

I used to have a Nikon D40 before I broke up with my ex. Now I'm looking for a good starter camera. I'm really good at learning and want a good quality camera that I can keep for years and years. I love nikon and would prefer to get another. I'm not looking to become a professional, I just want to be able to take my own pictures and have it as a hobby. I really need to keep the price right around $500. I will also be taking a couple of classes to improve my photography, so if you know where I can get a good camera at a fair price, please let me know.

If you like Nikon and you are OK dealing with the weight and size of an SLR (and price), the D3000 ($529), D5000 ($610) or D3100 ($690) are excellent cameras. Check the reliable online retailers such as B&H in New York, a local camera store, or even Amazon.

It would be best if you can actually hold the camera before buying it.

A refurbished D3000 will fit your budget and you'll have something left over to put towards a class.