I just realized: you don't mention whether you want the answer for color or black and white. I'll answer for black and white, since I do not print color optically.
First, you should check with the professor. They know what they are teaching, so...
I would use Ilford Multigrade IV RC for a first class. Fiber is better, but it is a royal pain to get flat, and takes at least twice as long to wet process by hand. It cannot be used in a "print processor" as far as I know.
If you need to use graded paper, try Oriental or Ilford graded papers. I would just go with variable contrast paper if it were me. There are just so many nice things you can do with the ability to change the contrast for different areas in the print. Plus, you only need one box of paper.