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.

Such a great class, I would 100% recommend taking it with Hurwitz. He is very engaging and energetic through every class, and really grades based on your improvement of speeches throughout the quarter. If you're not into public speaking at all, this is a great class to become comfortable with it and in an environment where no one is judging you.
The class is basically three speech assignments where you can pick any topic that fits the category, and in between the speech assignments are just fun group exercises, ted talks, and class discussion (no homework).

This is by far one of my favorite classes at UCLA. Brian is a great professor--funny, engaging, supportive, and obsessed with Bruce Springsteen. If you want to improve public speaking, whether you've never done it before or do it all the time, this class is for you. Go to every class for extra points and practice, and never try to wing your speeches! He grades on improvement but won't let lack of effort slide, so practice for at least a little bit. Overall, I wish there was a series to this public speaking class because it's so useful, no matter what major you are!

This is my favorite class that I have taken at UCLA. To anyone that needs to take Communications 1, I would 100% recommend Professor Hurwitz. He is what makes this class as great as it is. For reference I am a STEM major and took this class for a Pre Health requirement. His prompts make it so easy to present on.

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.