Welcome to the forum. Since you're going to take the course in July and they require at least a long sleeve shirt why don't you look into a mesh jacket to start with. When it starts to get colder you can purchase a leather jacket or textile jacket (I bought both). The mesh with armour will protect you and be a cooler option.
I lived in NY for 58 years but quite a ways from you - on Long Island to be specific. It's a great state but it's very expensive - at least on LI it was. I moved to SC and I'm loving every minute of it. :2tup:
