This was easily one of the hardest and most stressful classes I ever took at UCLA. Expect to read hundreds of pages of dense reading material per week, struggle through confusing lectures, and write long difficult papers which are graded very harshly. Would definitely not recommend this class.

I don't understand the complaints about Professor Urdank. He's very straightforward about what he expects from you and is a very fair grader.

The lectures can be a little difficult to follow at times, but he's incredibly knowledgeable. He takes attendance and you only get three absences before you start losing points. He does give participation points, part of it based on attendance. There aren't many chances to participate in discussion though, so chime in when you can.

The readings are plentiful, but all very interesting. Midterm is take home, a choice of essays, and you approach it casually. Final is the same plus an in-class multiple choice, 80/20 with the essay being worth the 80. The multiple choice is very difficult, but the essay will bail you out.

I've taken him twice now, and I'd definitely take him again.

I would never take another class with Urdank. Although he is pretty nice, he is a horrible lecturer. I agree with previous reviewers that his voice is nasalized and annoying, but he just does not engage the students with the material.

I actually feel badly for saying this, but he is the worst lecturer at UCLA.

lol

URNOTDANK