Well, I have reached a decision.
I have decided to wait until Fall 2005 and take the class with the Japanese instructor. Though I can hear the language explained in clear English, my goal is not English, yet Japanese. Plus, I can disect any Japanese (or Filipino) accent (I'm having trouble with Korean accents and Chinese) so its not a problem for me. I can get clearer information about culture.
So, I decided to take it with the Japanese lady in Fall 2005.
Thanks for ALL your help, minna!