i loved this class so much ! professor ranero was so nice and explained things so clearly, even when we got into the more hefty topics like trees and ipa. even though this class might get a bit confusing at times in terms of the content, the professor and TAs help out so much and offer SO many office hours where they help you step by step with the homework. professor ranero was also very accommodating with everything that happened around the encampment and the protests, to the point where he delayed our midterm and gave us a time extension on both the midterm and final by one hour. overall, i would say take this class (knowledge of spanish and/or portuguese would be helpful, but it's not mandatory)

Professor Ranero has been an excellent instructor this past quarter, demonstrating a high mastery on the coursework and a deep interest in our learning & well-being students. His lectures were always highly engaging, he consistently expanded on topics that were a bit confusing, and was always offering his support & assistance during the course. He has been accommodating all quarter, given the unique circumstances we found ourselves in, and has made the class an overall very welcoming & engaging environment. Lectures were twice a week for 2 hours each, not recorded, and attendance is required (but he & the TAs were very understanding about attendance issues). There were 6 homework assignments that were sometimes a bit long, but he did provide ample time to complete the assignments and him (& the TAs) provided many opportunities for office hours/further assistance. There are two exams, both online, and he provides ample time to complete them, too. Overall, I highly recommend this course!