Professor
Sara Melzer
3 of 3
Most Helpful Review
Taken Fall 2010. I loved Professor Melzer and her material for the course, despite seriously considering dropping after the first lecture. That being said, if you are looking for a typical powerpoint/bruincast type lecturer, she is not the professor for you. Some have criticized her as being "disorganized". I disagree. She outlines her lecture points before each class on the board and goes through them all, time permitting. The time factors in not because she wanders on rants or rambles, but because she actually seeks real input from students. She really wants you to learn how to think through the material and learn to see multiple perspectives of the important issues she raises. She does know what she's talking about, but seeks your input. She does have high expectations for writing, due in part to the fact that she also teaches writing courses. When it comes down to it, just have her read over your paper and do what she says--she definitely looks for a certain type/style/format of writing. The good part is, if you ask, she'll tell you what she wants and how to achieve it. She also awards improvement in writing over time with more points. Also, unlike many French classes, she does not require in-class verbal participation. However, by the end of the quarter, each student had spoken because the atmosphere was more relaxed due to her friendly invitation (not requirement) to participate. In my opinion, one of the best classes and professors of my 4-year UCLA career. Requires some work, but definitely do-able. I would take Melzer again. One of the most encouraging and engaging professors!
Taken Fall 2010. I loved Professor Melzer and her material for the course, despite seriously considering dropping after the first lecture. That being said, if you are looking for a typical powerpoint/bruincast type lecturer, she is not the professor for you. Some have criticized her as being "disorganized". I disagree. She outlines her lecture points before each class on the board and goes through them all, time permitting. The time factors in not because she wanders on rants or rambles, but because she actually seeks real input from students. She really wants you to learn how to think through the material and learn to see multiple perspectives of the important issues she raises. She does know what she's talking about, but seeks your input. She does have high expectations for writing, due in part to the fact that she also teaches writing courses. When it comes down to it, just have her read over your paper and do what she says--she definitely looks for a certain type/style/format of writing. The good part is, if you ask, she'll tell you what she wants and how to achieve it. She also awards improvement in writing over time with more points. Also, unlike many French classes, she does not require in-class verbal participation. However, by the end of the quarter, each student had spoken because the atmosphere was more relaxed due to her friendly invitation (not requirement) to participate. In my opinion, one of the best classes and professors of my 4-year UCLA career. Requires some work, but definitely do-able. I would take Melzer again. One of the most encouraging and engaging professors!
AD
3 of 3
