I got my hamster Foxy last Christmas so i bet that you're really excited about getting a new pet!!! She is a syrian hamster, but previously i always kept roborovski hamsters. Even though robbys are the sweetest little things you have ever seen, growing to a maximum of 5cm, syrians are easier to handle and escape less easily! Syrians usually grow beteen 8 and 14cm long. I also believe that they are easier to tame and are more tolerant of handling by young children. I would recommend reading an informative book before you look for a hamster or find someone who is experienced in keeping them. So, you had hamsters in your science class? I've heard that it's quite common for schools in the states to have class pets but it seems to be virtually non-existant over here in england Still, good luck in the future with your hamster (or kitten!!!)