Joining into a martial arts school, you really should think about the credibility of a teacher. My experience (take it as you want. I am not a member of the martial arts community yet. I have not joined due to various reasons, but am looking into one school at the moment). with the different schools (especiallt TKD, being in Jhoon Rhee country, or TX is that anyone can claim themselves to be a master. Don't look at certificates. Look at years of experience, years in a specific location, and above all, ask about their name around town. One good indcator is if this person is in good standing not only within, say for example, the TKD community, but also within other forms of martial arts. This can be extremely important. Continuing education, and knowledge and acceptance of other arts can make for a more fulfilling martial arts experience. 'sides, you don't want to end up at a belt factory.