Shannon Boren
Web sites like ratemyprofessors.com bring a new element to communication that was not always available to previous generations – anonymity.
The ability to remain anonymous has several advantages.
It allows people to speak their mind without fear of backlash or retribution.
But how much can you rely on an unknown source?
Travel with me back to the time of face-to-face communication.
A time before the Internet reigned supreme and people shared opinions with each other knowing they would be held accountable for what they said.
What I wish to offer is something that ratemyprofessors.com cannot, an opinion with a name, face and an e-mail address attached.
Perhaps I’m biased or wrong, but at least I can be held accountable for it.
Having been a student at Pierce for nearly two years and on the verge of completing 69 units, it’s safe to say I have enough experience to offer some advice to those attempting to complete their general education courses.
My only hope is that I can guide students to enjoy some of the teachers and classes that I have already experienced and found worth taking.
Think of me as the test dummy.
If you’re looking to fulfill an English requirement I recommend Richard Follett wholeheartedly.
I took him for English 202, but he also teaches English 101, English 252 and a Bible as literature class.
The pace is fast, but he keeps you involved and cares about your success.
Math is a troubling subject for many.
At least that’s been my experience.
Pierce is not well known for its high-quality math teachers, but I have encountered one that I think is worth mentioning.
Carole Akl was my Math 125 teacher and contributed to my first mathematical success.
She gives a lot partial credit for incorrect answers and is more than willing to work through a problem until her students fully understand the material.
Many students may be more fond of the arts requirement than math and English, and I have a great suggestion for that as well.
Steve Anderson teaches several cinema courses and really knows what he’s talking about.
My Cinema 18 class was a fun blast from the past of classic films and there were only two tests in the semester.
History has a reputation of being a bore, but Gary Penrod brings it to life with storytelling and a humor that few can rival.
The subject has never been my cup of tea, but Penrod made the course entertaining and brought relevance to the past.
My most dreaded course requirement was speech and I bet I’m not the only one.
I was relieved however, to have Jennifer Cohen-Rosenberg as my instructor.
Students give four or five speeches and she grades fairly with a lot of constructive criticism.
I’m still relieved it’s over, but it could have been much worse.
The final suggestion I can offer is to take service learning with Jim Dawson.
It’s the perfect opportunity for those looking to pick up an extra unit.
Service Learning 1 requires only two class meetings, no tests and a small number of volunteer hours.
You get to help out in the community and get paid with college credit.
If you’re on the fence about which courses to take, my suggestions may be helpful.
Or perhaps you’ll take the more adventurous route and draw professor’s names out of a hat.
The choice is yours.