I'd recommend trying out Atlantic Airways at JYO. They don't have a HEF office anymore but they do have aircraft types that are more interesting like Cirrus SR20/22, Super Decathlon, DA40s, and if you want it, C172 G1000. It is not a pilot mill school so students are a mostly older with established careers. Most instructors are retired military types (few Air Force, some Navy). They just started a formation clinic which seems to be a big hit teaching basics in DA40s. You might enjoy the camaraderie more at this place I think.
Ask for Will or Bob