The class was relatively easy. The class consisted of 2 reflection papers (10% each) that were about your own personal experiences, one midterm research paper (30%) about your own family background, and one final group project (50%). The hardest part was probably the midterm paper, and even that was pretty easy. The class was actually interesting. Saba would bring a speaker to almost every class. The subject is probably a little harder if you are not Persian or Jewish, but I would still recommend it. The only negative I have is that she was not very clear with what she wanted from us. I think almost everyone received an A. Just make sure you have good grammar on you essays.

Dr. Soomekh is amazing!!!!!!! The best professor I ever had at UCLA. She will give a comprehensive historical background to the texts and will help you through it. If you do the readings, participate, attend the lectures and do well in your papers, you will get at least a B+. The books are really interesting.

See her at Office Hours for help and she's very kind and approachable. You would be stupid not to take her class.