Structure of Class:
- Three speeches throughout the quarter, you get to pick your own topics
- One final paper (>5 pages double spaced)
- Participation matters, ie. responding to/critiquing your classmates' speeches

I was hesitant taking Comm 1 with a new professor because I normally suck at public speaking, and I thought I was gonna struggle. But Hurwitz proved me wrong. Not only is he charismatic and personable, he also writes really nice and helpful comments after every speech. If you're shy, this class will build your confidence in public speaking. You will not regret taking it with Professor Hurwitz.

I have never written a Bruin Walk review... I am doing this a year after taking this class, which I think accurately reflects how much of an impact Comm 1 with Professor Hurwitz has had on my life. Undramatically, this class has changed my life. I truly feel that no matter what major you are or what your career plans may be, this class can help you. If you are a human who speaks, I cannot recommend this class enough. This class will improve your life.

In terms of teaching abilities, Prof Hurwitz IS the best. He truly leads by example. The classes are so much fun, I was always surprised to see that the two hours had passed because of how the time flew by. Because public speaking can be a little scary at times, the classroom environment is extremely supportive. I made some great friends in this class because everyone is just trying their best (and wants to see their classmates succeed). Prof Hurwitz will provide unique and individual feedback that is highly useful.

Out of any class I have taken (13 at UCLA and all of hs) this class is BY FAR the most useful and my favorite. I have recommended it to all of my friends (even non-comm majors). I would literally take it again just for fun because public speaking / communication skills can always improve. If you are thinking of taking this class, let this be your sign!!! Have the best time!

This is my favorite professor and class i have ever taken!! You only need to do 3-4 speeches during the whole quarter. I wish he taught other classes!

I️ decided to join the waitlist for this class on the first day of the quarter and I️ couldn't have made a better decision. Professor Hurwitz is one of the most entertaining and understanding professors I've ever had. After I️ attended the first class, he immediately offered a PTE number, and his generosity did not stop then. His grades on speeches are based upon personal growth rather than by class comparison. Our speech topics were silly and open ended to allow creative freedom which was so fun. He is understanding about nerves and always gives positive and encouraging feedback. This is definitely my favorite class I've taken at UCLA.

Professor Hurwitz is nothing short of incredible. He is the best teacher that I have ever had. His passion is unwavering and he has left a PROFOUND impact on me as a student. His class is extremely manageable (4 speeches make up your entire grade) and he is very understanding. He is a thoughtful grader and I have never felt less than in his class, even when surrounded by remarkable talent. Even if you do not "need" this class, his teachings will benefit you in SO many ways. I cannot recommend Hurwitz or this class enough.

seriously my favorite professor i've had at ucla!! he is SO ENGAGING and wants to help his students! if you want to be in COMM, or you need to take this class, take it with HURWITZ! He grades on improvement of the individual student, not based on everyone else in the class which is super nice. he is super responsive to email and will look over your outlines for speeches. could not recommend more!

If you are not comfortable with public speaking, this is the teacher to support you. Very engaging, very helpful. Will answer your questions honestly, doesn't beat around the bush with anything. His grading system doesn't correlate to traditional grading systems, but this shouldn't scare you off. It is so he can grade each student individually by their growth rather than the overall level of the class. You have 4 speeches, and the final speech is 25% of your grade. All the topics are very flexible, very simple.

this is one of the best classes I've ever taken, and so far the best professor I have met. It is so easy to engage in this class, as well as easy to succeed. If you are interested in improving your public speech, take this class with this professor. This professor is extremely helpful and clear. I genuinely look forward to this class. Especially the speech days. It is definitley intimidating, but so worth it. Take this class with hurwitz. ALSO havent even recieved my grade yet and I dont care what I get because either way this class was 100% worth all my time and energy.

Literally the best class and best professor. Hurwitz is so so nice and funny and this class is super manageable. He grades based on improvement, so even if you're not a big public speaker compared to other people taking the class, it doesn't matter because it's all based on how you improve on your speeches over the quarter. There's very little work, and his constructive criticism at the end of your speech is super helpful and is delivered very kindly. TAKE THIS CLASS WITH HURWITZ! You won't regret it!

Professor Hurwitz is beyond amazing. Every time when I came to class, Professor Hurwitz displayed incredible enthusiasm and excitement in teaching new concepts of a new module. Instead of focusing heavily on theory, Professor Hurwitz made the class incredibly practical. This not only helped me to do well in the class, but has also transcended my public speaking skills to the next level. The lessons I have acquired for this course will stay with me for the rest of my life. In my humble opinion, this is a class that should be taken by all UCLA students regardless of major, as it will provide you with the opportunity to work on skills necessary to do well in life such as body language, mindset and attitude. I am incredibly grateful for every moment that I have spent in Professor Hurwitz's class, and I truly hope he will get to teach more courses in the future, as I would love to take another course with Professor Hurwitz.