Professor
Heather Loyd
Most Helpful Review
Fall 2021 - I had such high hopes for Prof. Loyd's course "Careers in Anthro" as an anthro major myself, but honestly the way she taught the course this fall quarter was not very engaging and the assignments consisted of very thorough research in anthro careers that was not at all related to the materials that guest lecturers discussed during the class. In addition, her graders are very, VERY meticulous when grading weekly assignments, which is really difficult bc losing 8 points or so literally brings your grade down SIGNIFICANTLY (like you won't be able to get an A if you lose more than 1 pt per each assignment). I haven't personally had issues with her, but I know that a few of my classmates brought up her grading system bc it isn't clear in the syllabus and there is no rubric for grading, and when they mentioned it to her apparently she was v dismissive towards their comments. honestly, just take the course if you need it for your major requirements bc all you do is listen to different guest lecturers every week, and submit a weekly assignment + final portfolio. otherwise, I wouldn't recommend her but it just sucks bc I was really looking forward to this class and was bummed by the way she treated students + her arbitrary grading scale.
Fall 2021 - I had such high hopes for Prof. Loyd's course "Careers in Anthro" as an anthro major myself, but honestly the way she taught the course this fall quarter was not very engaging and the assignments consisted of very thorough research in anthro careers that was not at all related to the materials that guest lecturers discussed during the class. In addition, her graders are very, VERY meticulous when grading weekly assignments, which is really difficult bc losing 8 points or so literally brings your grade down SIGNIFICANTLY (like you won't be able to get an A if you lose more than 1 pt per each assignment). I haven't personally had issues with her, but I know that a few of my classmates brought up her grading system bc it isn't clear in the syllabus and there is no rubric for grading, and when they mentioned it to her apparently she was v dismissive towards their comments. honestly, just take the course if you need it for your major requirements bc all you do is listen to different guest lecturers every week, and submit a weekly assignment + final portfolio. otherwise, I wouldn't recommend her but it just sucks bc I was really looking forward to this class and was bummed by the way she treated students + her arbitrary grading scale.
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Most Helpful Review
Fall 2023 - I learned a ton about career pathways for anthropology grads and career skills in general! Professor Loyd is enthusiastic and cares about her students. Every guest lecturer was insightful and eager to share their career stories with us, especially how they tie in anthropology. We were always encouraged to ask them questions. The assignments themselves are mostly self reflections or career preparation activities graded on completion. Overall, it was a genuinely great class. Some downsides are that the class itself lasts three hours straight every week, and Prof Loyd tends to ramble, which can make her a bit difficult to follow. Nonetheless, the pros outweigh the cons. I would still recommend this course because it's a fantastic way to learn about the possibilities you have with an anthropology degree. Definitely take it if you have the chance!
Fall 2023 - I learned a ton about career pathways for anthropology grads and career skills in general! Professor Loyd is enthusiastic and cares about her students. Every guest lecturer was insightful and eager to share their career stories with us, especially how they tie in anthropology. We were always encouraged to ask them questions. The assignments themselves are mostly self reflections or career preparation activities graded on completion. Overall, it was a genuinely great class. Some downsides are that the class itself lasts three hours straight every week, and Prof Loyd tends to ramble, which can make her a bit difficult to follow. Nonetheless, the pros outweigh the cons. I would still recommend this course because it's a fantastic way to learn about the possibilities you have with an anthropology degree. Definitely take it if you have the chance!
Most Helpful Review
Spring 2021 - This class was one of the best classes I've taken at UCLA, all under the guidance of Dr. Loyd. She is the most helpful professor to have for Lemelson classes, and having her as the last professor for the program before submitting your thesis is a lifesaver. I remember feeling so lost about my thesis at some point, and I met with Dr. Loyd to discuss it more in depth. Her guidance and sheer belief in my abilities pushed me to work harder and not lose hope. She is an incredible professor and overall human being. I feel confident in my video-editing skills and writing abilities after her guidance.
Spring 2021 - This class was one of the best classes I've taken at UCLA, all under the guidance of Dr. Loyd. She is the most helpful professor to have for Lemelson classes, and having her as the last professor for the program before submitting your thesis is a lifesaver. I remember feeling so lost about my thesis at some point, and I met with Dr. Loyd to discuss it more in depth. Her guidance and sheer belief in my abilities pushed me to work harder and not lose hope. She is an incredible professor and overall human being. I feel confident in my video-editing skills and writing abilities after her guidance.