Matt,
Since you're in a welding class you may already know this but there is a stick electrode made by Harris called "Super Missile Weld" that will weld any ferrous metal to itself or to any other ferrous metal. It makes a beautiful bead and, unlike "Ni rod", is very easy to use.
I've used it to repair broken cast iron items and to weld stainless steel to mild steel. It's some pretty amazing stuff. I'm told it's kept locked up in welding shops because its bead quality makes anyone look like a skilled welder so they all want to use it, but it is expensive.
