I took this class in my Freshman Fall Quarter. This class was focused on Comedy, Irony, the lines, explanations, and overall views on it. I liked it. We had 3 papers, if I remember correctly, that were what the class was mainly based on. We also had to submit first and second drafts for peer review as assignments, and we were required to complete information on readings and worksheets related to the topic of comedy or our discussions. (All graded.) The work was manageable, and I would turn some in or ask for extensions on papers, and he would comply nicely. I got B's on both of my first papers, which I hated, but he loved my Final paper, and although it was the hardest one to write, I agree it is my proudest paper. I got an A on it, which I didn't think I could. Despite this, his feedback during Office Hours was not that clear, so I asked others for advice, like my PLF. Additionally, he will make you write your process for each paper because he wants you to learn how to research and describe. Lastly, he will make you write a review of yourself in the class to advocate for 'What grade you believe you should get?' He takes attendance, but he says he doesn't "remember every interaction or thing we said," so he wants to know what we want to advocate for. That was goofy of him. Do participate, though it will help him like you, I feel. I participated, and he knew who I was. But it's relatively a light class, just a harsh grader at times.

The theme of this class was Comedy. A little different and unexpected, but it was an engaging topic that provided some interesting prompts. Rob was extremely helpful throughout the quarter providing insightful feedback and clear direction. The class consisted of three big essays and completing weekly assignments. The essay prompts got progressively more open to interpretation giving more freedom and room to work with, but also increased in difficulty slightly. Rob would host individual meetings before the deadline of each essay to provide face to face feedback, which helped clear up any confusion and questions. The week to week workload was not too much at all, with at most an assignment due before each class. The lectures and class itself can feel a little long and boring, but there is mostly group collaboration and worksheets during this time to prevent stagnant lectures. Overall, Rob was a helpful professor who provided interesting prompts throughout the quarter.

Overall he is a good prof, but he gives a rigid grade to everyone. The best you can do in his essays are B or B+. That’s the grade what 50 to 75% of the students fall on. I choose his class only because its time fits my schedule. I recommend you to choose better prof if available. Fail to do so will give you a grade A- or below.

Feedback can be vague and not representative of grade

I had an incredible experience with Dr. Cavanagh! He always made himself available outside of class and was helpful when answering my questions.