3.7
Quality2.8
Difficulty42%
Would Retake316
Reviews42%
Would Retake
316
Reviews
Rating DistributionOfficial
316 total ratings5
129
4
83
3
45
2
27
1
32
What Students Say
“Don;'t expect much from the TA's either”
COM101 - 1.0 rating“Overall a cool class, great movies, mediocre professor”
COM553 - 3.0 ratingClass Info
Online Classes
100%
Attendance Mandatory
98%
Textbook Required
67%
Grade Predictor
Your expected effort level
Predicted Grade
B+
Grade Distribution
Common Tags
Rating Trend
Declining
-0.80 avg changeRatings by Course
COMMUNICATIONS
5.0
(1)COM100
5.0
(1)AAAA
5.0
(1)COM462
5.0
(1)COMM101002
5.0
(1)Difficulty by Course
COM553
4.2
AAAA
4.0
COMM101002
4.0
COM312
3.9
COM181
3.0
Reviews (299)
A great teacher who really makes it fun to go to class. Haven't heard a bad thing about him, everyone loves him! The class is very fun and interesting.
Its an easy class but its a lot of info for one test. the papers are really easy and so are the test if you study. hes an awesome teacher.
The best class ever! Makes me want to come to class! His lectures keep you interested. He wants you to enjoy the class so he makes it fun! I would highly recommend taking it if you get the chance!
He is my favorite ever professor! His lectures are fun and entertaining. He will make you want to go to class. His tests are straight memorization from the notes and really easy. His papers are also really easy. Its a great class, HIGHLY recommended!!! :)
Best class I have ever taken!! DeSantis is an awesome professor that keeps your interest for the full 50 minutes. He is very funny and makes the subject very interesting. 3 papers and 3 tests. Easy A. This class is a must take for everyone!
Easy class. Just memorize stuff for exams. Not hard at all. Great guy. Invited me over for thanksgiving since I couldn't go home. Don't think there can be a better proffesor
It is a fun class, however, his lectures are a little ****ed. He tries to act a lot younger than he really is. Very cocky, but nice teacher and an easy class.
Take this class. Took it as senior because heard he was awesome and he was. Easy A and awesome teaching. Dont leave UK without taking his class.
This guy is hilarious. I like his class, but apparently not as much as most people. I thought the first test was freaking hard, it's pure memorization of like 20 different things. The papers are easy. Be prepared to do a lot of writing both in class and on the tests.
Great class and great teacher. All the tests are based on memory and the TA's are helpful
This is the best class and the best teacher I've had so far. Classes are very entertaining and you learn a lot of interesting stuff. Just do what he says and memorize the lists from the notes and it is an easy A.
A lot of work for a 100 level class. All tests are on friday mornings and they are all fill in the blank. Lectures are interesting, but it gets old.
you will have to study a lot of stuff that wont be on the test at all because he picks the smallest things to be on the test, only take if you like studying useless information
Cool teacher and cool information, but that can make you go into a test feeling overconfident which can screw your grade. Make sure you learn what you love and you'll do great :)
He's a riot, but he's also a great teacher. He's tough, but fair.
Test's were harder than hell.
This class wasn't what I'd call hard but it wasn't easy either. The tests were PURE memorization. I took this as a senior and didn't really have the time to dedicate hours and hours trying to memorize useless facts to get an A on these tests.
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Interesting teacher and material. Tough tests, but very fair. A great class.
This class is very interesting. Professor Desantis is hilarious and makes the time fly by. He also plays music and isn't bad to look at either!
This class wakes you up in the morning and flys by. The tests are only hard if you don't study. He is straight foward and teaches "the way he wishes he'd been taught"--Very Interesting and recommend taking
Loved the class! Had it a couple of years ago and am still talking about how much I enjoyed it. His teaching style keeps your attention, and there are virtually no suprises on the tests.
He's definitely been my favorite teacher. I learned a lot from his class. He makes class interesting in his own unique, hilarious way. His tests are straight from the power points, hard only if you don't study.I would recommend this class to anyone, you will never have another teacher like him!!
EXCELLENT prof, best at UK! Class time flies by. He really captures your interest. TAs grade papers tough but they're willing to give you advice before you turn them in. Tests are pure memorization but easy if you study well for a day or so. This man is a GREAT lecturer, funny too, and plays music before class starts! I'd take him again for SURE :)
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Desantis is hilarious, interesting, and fun. He gets the students ready to go with music everyday. He gives great examples and really wants the students to learn. His tests are challenging to those who do not study.
very engaging class, he's very enthusiastic
Dr. Desantis makes COM 101 so much fun! I love the class and would recommend it to anyone! You do have to study for the tests, but the classes are very interesting and upbeat!
Desantis is treated like a God. While class can be entertaining, he makes racial and **** jokes and really sucks up to the Greeks. The class if fun but can be hard; make sure you talk to your TAs a lot about papers because you will get them back and have no idea why you're doing so poorly. Also, you have to really study for his tests.
Desantis was on amphetamines half of the time which made class very interesting to attend. his enthusiasm is unrivaled in the school as is his devotion to the greek cult system. his class was easy and fun but at times he seemed to be trying a little hard to impress us
Don't take this class! Everyone says that it is an easy A, but don't believe them1 Desantis is a jerk. Not helpful at all. His tests are ridiculous too, who learns by memorization. He has no idea about what is going on in his class, beacuse TA's do everything. My best advice drop this and take something else if you are looking for an easy A.
One of my favorite professors yet. The class was kind've tough and he has an annoying attendance policy fora class or 250 people, but a good time. He always picked on this Polish kid which was hilarious!
Good teacher- energetic- but his class is a lot harder than everyone says it is- you WILL have to study for tests and actually write good papers. but still take it- for sure. it's like sesame street for college kids on crack.
this is the greatest class BY FAR at Kentucky. I got a 99% on the first test and a 98% on the first paper. ALL you have to do is study the list and it's an easy A. Plus he has a greay sense of humor and it'c a class you'll look forward to going to!
he is the most amazing teacher in the world. everyone should take this class - if you don't, you're stupid. anyone who thinks he's no cool is a moron. plus, he's one of the sexiest men alive. =)
Desantis has a great lecture style to keep his large class's attention, and his material is common sense. However, he doesn't give a DAMN about his students. He will dismiss you the second you walk up to his office or write him an email. His class is a cake walk if you can remember his many lists, just to vomit them up on his obscure tests.
so much fun, i wish i could take it again, class is realy easy, and tests are always based on the lists from lecture and the open response is from the paper assignments, thank god there is a great teacher in the world
Alan is extremely energetic, and he really kept my attention! The class is really interesting. Oh and one more important thing, he's really hot.
its no wonder why he was rated best teacher like 3 years in a row!! he is gorgeous not to mention!! desantis is absolutely hilarious I loved going to class
very fun and exciting teacher. makes you want to come to class. the first test seems like a killer, but all you have to do is memorize lists...seriously, that's all, and the 2 sections are at 10, and 11 AM, so on the friday morning classes you won't be that hungover compared to an 8 o'clock
Dr.Desantis is a hoot.. his class is fun and He's italian... that's pretty much the most important thing.. the only drawlback is the fact that his tests are hard to study for.. there is alot of information and you don't know what to study.. it's a guessin' game.. he relies on his TA's tooo much!
Very easy class. It's a lot of memorizing but still a very easy A
Desantis is wonderful! He's so energetic and it's a fun class to be in... and as long as you memorize every thing the tests are really easy!
Desantis keeps your attention the entire class period. He's funny, engaging, but requires you to exercise your mind. I actually look forward to going to class; I know I'll learn something interesting in a fun environment.
He is probably the best teacher I've had at UK. Very entertaining and fun. He gives his TA's too much responsibility. They grade everything and give zero feedback as to why they gave you the grade they did.
I loved this class! Amazing professor!!!
The best teacher ever!!!
Great teacher and brother. His class woke me up to a few of his subjects. Exams take lots of time to memorize lists
Great professor. Very enthusiastic and energetic. Keeps you entertained. Has his lecture down to an art. Perfect powerpoint slides. Tests are all fill in the blank.
Great professor with lots of energy and interesting material. The tests require lots of memorization but are not too difficult. Take this class!
He makes me want to come to class because he is very entertaining and enthusiastic about what he teaches. It takes time to memorize lists but overall a very good class.
DeSantis is the MAN!!! You will actually want to go to this class... He is probably the best professor on the campus. He talks like a kid and supports the college lifestyle. Class is really easy if you apply yourself.. you have 3 exams and 3 3-page papers, not bad
He is a great professor, and makes it actually fun and interesting to go to class! His tests are clearly laid out, and are based on memorization!
DeSantis is a great teacher and really made me interested in this field. However I wasnt as into the class when he had a sub. He's extremely funny and the tests are basically memorizing lists. Take this course!
DeSantis was an awesome teacher and kept me interested the whole time. He used many personal stories and popular media to relate his material (movie clips, pictures, ect.) He is very funny and VERY energetic!! I really recommend this class.. the guy knows he stuff. Memorization style test = very hard!
Baller!
The class is really tough because you just have 3 exams that hold all of your class grades, so you better study HARD for them in order to pass.
An academic poser with no discernable talent, DeSantis is an unreconstructed frat boy who has adopted the mush-headed lingo of "post-modernism" to cover his own intellectual bankruptcy. He leers at the girls and high-fives all his student pals and tries to show how cool he is by playing 1990s rock hits at the start of class. A tenured troll.
You're right, he is a tool, but anyone who says his class "really is hard" should get out of college. Easiest A ever. You'll spend time on this class 3 times a year. Pull an all nighter studying for the test and you're golden, it's all memorization. Take him, it's an interesting class.
It was a fun class, but he is kind of a tool. Enjoyed it, and tests are memorization so it isn't too hard
Fun class. The tests are all memorization, mostly lists. TA's do all the grading, and usually a poor job. Most papers are skimmed over, make sure you meet up with them to reclaim points they take off for no reason.
The class is great and really easy. You must attend class though, my grade was lowered two letter grades because of my attendance. It is very easy to get an A without attending class, but he will lower your grade if you don't.
Dr. D was cool teacher. I enjoyed his lectures and his class confirmed my interest in Com. His TA's are terrible though. You really have to fight hard for points on papers and tests. They aren't unreasonable, but a little high-strung. There is a reason he's always the favorite prof on campus... Take his course... at least for the USP credits.
Amazing professor! easy class came out with 98% for the semester. his grading isnt hard either? so i dont know why people wrote that. you dont need to pull all nighters if you write down the notes you know the material. papers are easy too. and the TA's dont grade bad. you just write what they ask for and you get an A. DeSantis makes the class fun!
He is hilarious ! GREAT TEACHER !
easiest class ive had at uk...go to class, and exams are straight from the book...easy A, and pretty interesting stuff too
he is pretty crazy but was able to hold my attention really well. you just need to memorize like crazy for the tests... mostly lists!
Excellent teaching ability. Uses examples that students can relate with or from his own personal life. Very funny. Wonderful professor.
He's an amazing teacher! During class he's hilarious and down to earth, making the material easy to understand. When it comes to his test, they are VERY straight foward. Memorize the notes you've taken in class (which are on powerpoints) and you're golden.
At first his class is fun but he gets old fast. He trys to act like he is young. He doesnt give a crap about his students. The ta's do everything i feel sorry for them. Overall it is a good class and is very easy!
Keeps the class fun and gets your attention. DEFF recommend it for an easy A. Just go to class and memorize all the powerpoint and you have an A.
I loved this class. Always interesting. It was a MWF class but I didn't care to go to class on Friday!
When he teaches, he tries to make the material interesting for students, which is a lot more than most profs do. I was entertained and learned a lot. Tests were easy if you put in the work to memorize. Some ppl think he's a tool, I strongly disagree.
by far one of the most interesting and fun teachers i have ever had. you have to go to class, but you will want to anyway. tests are all memorizing the lists in his notes and being able to describe concepts (tests are entirely writing). grade is made up of 3 tests & 3 papers, each 3 pages long. poor attendance can lower your grade. definitely take!
This class is great, i love the material and the way that it is presented. The only down side is that he doesn't really care about his students, his TAs do EVERYTHING!
his lectures are incredibly biased and he tries to force his left wing political views on his students.
Good class, energetic teacher. These are large classes so the TA's are responsible for a lot.
as a teacher he's okay, but i found his personality extremely grating which made it difficult to focus on the material rather than his antics. he drove me crazy.
Interesting class... material is easy but his test are not. If you spend plenty of time memorizing then you'll be fine... if you are better at explaining than memorizing = might be tough.
Seems to be a cool guy, but I didn't think he was all that approachable like he claims to be. The material is easy, but the written exams are difficult if you don't study the right things. TAs do everything, so make sure to get in good with them.
Desantis is deceiving, you think he will be easy, you hear he will be easy, but you'll get a surprise if you take this for granted. Attendence is manditory or you get 2.5% off of the final grade for every class you miss. Go see your TA, they know how to narrow your study guide to main points. Go to their office hours often, or As are hard to get.
Go to class, pay attention, memorize, get an A. That truly is the formula. You may stay up all night (not an exaggeration) to study for his tests, but as long as you know it, you CAN get an A in the class. You'll probably get a high B on the paper (seems to be consistent). I didn't need to see the TAs for anything. It is easy, just takes time.
Not helpful in the least bit, directs you to the TA's. pretends like his class is easy, its not. test are ALL fill-in. If you cram ALL the notes youll b fine. He's kind of rude/ slighty disrespectful. His class is hilarious but he does get on your nerves alot. Talks about ethnicities and genders ALOT. To the point where its uncomfortable/annoying.
I saw him creeping on some younger girls at Two Keys. Just thought that I should throw that in there. Other than that, he's a pretty cool guy. The class was kind of fun, but after a while you get this feeling that he's really immature.
I got a 100% in this class. He gives you the notes in a fill in the blank binder. Take notes in class, then make a study guide from what he tells you will be on the test. (Yes, he spells it out clearly a couple of days before.) Then straight up memorize your study guide. He's not going to help outside of class, but there is really no reason for it.
Dr. DeSantis is an excellent professor who teaches very effectively and keeps things fun and entertaining day to day.
uh this class is absolutely useless. It's really easy, but I get the feeling Desantis is trying to recapture something from his youth. Professor is annoying to the point you don't even want to go. Tests are all memorization and straightforward. One of my least favorite classes. Very deceiving class. Doesn't care about students so go to TAs for help
AWESOME!!
Dr. DeSantis is a nice professor, teaches well and thoroughly, and his lectures are interesting but his exams are really hard. Your expected to know everything he's ever said in class and respond to test questions in split second time or you probably wont finish the exam. I feel like his exams require more explaination than there is time to give.
This professor teaches topics that touches most of daily life, from relationships to why groups are behaving the way they do. I feel as if I could use his theory and apply to my daily life, but when it comes to test, it is DIFFICULT. So, study hard, REALLY hard.
Dr. DeSantis is an extremely intelligent professor who is very passionate about his career and the students. I learned a great deal from his throughout my years at UK. Sometimes he comes off a little cocky which makes it difficult to talk to him one on one but overall he's a really nice, fair guy. I would definitely recommend his courses!
He is a really nice guy and all but his tests are ridiculous! You have to memorize everything!! Make up exams are impossible if you are not a good studier! Loved him as a person but hard as a teacher.
test are strictly memorization! have to remember long list and must be able to explain list the way TA wants, papers the same way easy but all depends on TA, persuaded him to regrade my test and one grade higher in the class...have to go to class he takes attendance...sucker for sorority/fraternity people
His TAs do all the work. He just lectures. Sometimes he is interesting, but most of the time he is just vulgar and immature. He is obsessed with himself.
I liked his class. He's a great teacher and it's evident he really loves what he does. He cracks jokes quite often and brings in personal life into lectures, which I really thought was cool. Not gonna lie, though, the tests are tough: straight memorization of his slideshows. I would recommend him and I wish I could take him again.
Very interesting teacher and fun class! Its for sure not an easy A but if you study you do good on the tests. The comments saying its a hard class and desantis is a jerk are the people who probably dont study and got a F!
Memorizing a movie script is equally studying for the exams but they are easy.
Such an easy class if you're good at memorizing lots of info. Desantis is incredibly rude in person, though he may come off as funny in class. Probably one of the most useless teachers I've had, the TA's do all the work. If you're in a frat or sorority, take it because you'll like Desantis. If you're a minority, spare yourself the frustration.
Definitely recommended. This class is awesome.
awesome
You must memorize quite a bit for his tests. Once or twice, some of the things he said seemed TOO personal for a class of people he didn't know, it made me feel uncomfortable and seemed like unnecessary info, but I will admit that the class was probably more fun than it would have been with a different professor. I took his course in Spring 08.
Extremely funny. Cusses a bit, but uses them responsibly and not too rough. He makes the class extremely fun and entertaining. You'll need to know essentially everything from the slides, and on the short answer, you'll need to be extremely precise if you want to get a good grade. Loved him as a teacher!
Desantis is, in a nutshell, a glorified frat boy. If you have a mind of your own, the class will make you want to take a power drill to your temple. I wrote one of the papers in 15 minutes and got a 96, but if you don't memorize the test EXACTLY, then you wont do well. He's a weasel. And his jokes make me want to punch small children. HATED it
If Greek life, drinking at Two Keys, and slapstick humor aren't for you, then neither is this class. The test is all memorization, and you retain absolutely nothing after you've regurgitated it for the exam. He cares ten times more about his reputation as a "cool" professor than he does his students, or his so-called intelligence for that matter.
He made class enjoyable. The tests are purely memorization, but the information is retained should you go to class. His lessons are full of examples that fit into all of our lives, which helps learn the material. His essay/papers are really pointless since he makes it so easy to understand. I'd say he's one of the best.
Kind of a tool but it's an easy A. Only need to study a few nights prior but once you have it you are golden for the exams. Class is somewhat interesting b/c of his examples but he is kind of a frat guy loudmouth. Easy tho (that's whats important anyway)
As a class, it is very straightforward and easy. The tests clearly reflect what was taught. As a prof, he cares about how funny he is. If you're humor isn't that of a second grade boy, you won't appreciate it. Impossible to contact, sends you straight to the TA
DeSantis is pretty great. His lecture style is very engaging. He injects a lot of humor into the lectures, and none of the assignments are especially difficult. All you really need to be concerned with is memorizing a lot for each exam, and you'll be fine.
WORST CLASS EVER! This man just gets up there and teaches a bunch of BS. None of his facts are right and he has a very clear liberal/atheistic agenda. He treats frat kids, athletes, and females like gods. This guy is a ****!
I loved this class! yeah, he is a little bit arrogant...but he's still a great teacher and very entertaining. He makes the material interesting and easy to understand. His tests are very hard, but its possible to get an A as long as you know the material. I would absolutely recommend this class.
The information gained in this class is valuable, and as long as you take notes you will be fine. The tests are blank, so you fill in all the details which can be tricky without studying. His teaching style is kind of a pain because he's so arrogant, but it only lasts for a semester so it's forgivable.
He's really entertaining. It's one of the only classes I actually enjoy going to. Lectures are far from boring.
TA's do all the work. Wear a low-cut shirt and he'll like you a lot. Pretty "hands on" with his female TA's, if you know what I mean. Generally pretty easy.
If you don't like having fun, you probably wont like this class. great humor, he loves teaching this subject.
Really fun professor. Very engaging lecturer and is obviously enthusiastic about his subject. Some may not enjoy his humor. His tests are straight memorization and he tells you pretty much exactly what to expect. The only real challenge you'll face may be the three papers you'll write throughout the course.
He teaches incorrect info by twisting studies to fit his lectures and the point he wants to make. He favors girls who spread their legs, frat and sorority kids. He tries to live his life vicariously through his students. He yells at his TA's in front of 300 person lectures and even hit a water bottle out of a students hand during lecture
Desantis is pretty cool. The only challenge about his class is that there is a lot of information to know. Gives great study guides, class is very entertaining. He can be a little rude to people who show up late, texters, or talkers. Yes he teaches 300 people classes but he will catch you. Ive seen it happen. Overall cool teacher best for com101.
Good at teaching and presenting to the class. He is interesting and keeps you listening. However, when you approach him for help with the exams he is rude and not helpful. He can be a real jerk when you talk to him one on one for help with anything.
AWESOME!
Class lectures are interesting and I always look forward to going. However,when it comes to his test it is all fill in the blank like such as list these 7 things & explain. It may seem easy but he grades really hard. Thought I did well on my 1st test & failed. Had to drop the class.
Awesome teacher. He really knows how to keep a class of 300 entertained. The test are memorization, but the papers are easy (3 pages and you talk about yourself). Attendance is mandatory, but it's worth it. You don't have an actual textbook, but a book of all his slides that you fill in during class. He isn't afraid to curse and poke fun at people.
Sure it's an "easy" class, and there isn't much to it except taking notes and a few papers. But as everyone says, the TA's do all the work, and in my case they were terribly strict graders. Large parts of test or paper grades would be taken off just due to a small technicality, so any mistake you make is unforgivable. Fun, but wouldn't take again
His lectures are enjoyable and make you think, but that's the only thing good about this course. He makes his TA's do everything, so expect strict grading. Also, he has favoritism towards athletes and pretty girls. Lastly, he can be a real jerk if you use your phone or laptop in class. He'll single you out in the middle of class and embarrass you.
Many of his lectures are contradictory. Seems like he has some sort of score to settle with religion, as he's always bashing religion and promoting this search for knowledge and truth. He gives priority to females and will not talk to you one on one; he sends you to a TA. The class itself is enjoyable, but he assumes we're all middle class America.
This guy has a million good reviews for a reason: his class is one of the best every. This class is about everything interesting you ever wanted to know about life ever. Tests are hard but the papers are easy. DeSantis is funny but not helpful if you have a personal problem. He'll immediately redirect you to a TA for everything. Great class though.
Genuinely disappointed that this class is over. Very interesting subject and he is very good at keeping people engaged and entertained. The tests are hard/quick recall, but if you make friends with the TAs (like me!) they'll basically tell you what you need to study. Only 6 grades all semester, but the class was my fave this semester... loved it!
This class was easily my favorite of the semester. It's enjoyable, entertaining, and interesting. While he does make his TA's do everything, the tests are straight memorization and easy. I studied only the night before exams and aced every single one.
by far my favorite class of the semester. the lectures are very entertaining and interesting. the papers are easy I got A's on all of them and wrote them the night before. The tests are all writings and memorization so you have to study a lot but he tells you exactly what will be on them. The TAs grade everything and he can be narcacistic sometimes
By far my favorite class to attend during the semester. It is extremely fun to go to and doesn't require a lot of work except for 3 short papers. Everyone complains about the difficulty of his tests but as long as you study and memorize the study guide, you can make 100s. I made high A's on all tests jut by study 5-6 hours total over 3 days
Although he may seem nice talking in front of 300 people, one on one he is not very nice. The TA's grade real hard because they are out to prove something for themselves. Great teacher though. He definitely has knowledge on the subject. Requires A LOT of memorization for his tests.
The class was very easy for the most part. Attendance is mandatory. The tests are insultingly long, but the material is elementary. Quite a bit of memorization required.
The best class I have taken. The lectures were incredibly interesting and I am that student who usually skips class or zones out easily. Lots of memorization but if you pay attention to his examples it should come easily. Loved his class!!
He seems nice until you have to talk to him one on one. Then he is a real ass. He is just a college guy who never grew up; he loves sorority girls and frat guys. EXREMELY CONCEITED. But he is overall a decent lecturer and interesting class. Just don?t try to talk to him.
Lots and lots of memorization, but very interesting lectures -- they were funny and relevant. He tells you exactly what is going to be on the tests; just memorize what he tells you and you will be A-okay!
Desantis is an amazing teacher. By far one of the best lecturers I've ever had. That being said, his tests are HARD! They require a TON of memorization, but if you are good at that, you will be fine. 3 Papers and 3 Tests. That's it!
Great lecturer. TESTS ARE EXTREMELY HARD!!!!! They require a ton of memorization. The class is very, very interesting. TA's do ALL the work. Attendance is 100% mandatory. If you miss more than 2 classes you get an automatic 2.5% deduction of your FINAL GRADE every time.
He is seriously my favorite prof. at UK! Attendance is mandatory, but you WANT to go to his class. It's fun and in no way boring. Sure, the tests have lots of memorization, but if you take the UK 101 class, some of those teachers will actually give you study guides made by DeSantis. No homework, 3 papers, 3 tests, book = notes (printed powerpoints)
Lectures will keep you entertained. Attendance is mandatory 3 days a week and he rarely cancels. Seems like a cool guy at first, but you'll soon realize that he is very egotistical. I think he's obsessed with himself. Grading is hard. Small errors always receive deductions. Exams are extremely long and difficult to finish in 50 minutes.
Awesome lectures with interesting topics
You can tell he tries really hard to be funny/cool, but there's nothing wrong with that. The content is inherently interesting, and his anecdotes make it even better. He tells you EXACTLY what's gonna be on the three exams (non-cummulative), and the three papers are short. You want a cake Com class? Take 101 with DeSantis.
By far the best teacher and the best class. The test do require quite a bit of studying, but the material is so interesting that you want to memorize it. He is hilarious and has true passion for his job. TAKE THIS CLASS.
Fantastic professor. DeSantis is by far my favorite professor and the class is great. The tests involve a lot of memorization, but you have plenty of time to prepare and there are no surprises. I would definitely take his class again
DeSantis is easily my favorite professor. The tests are a lot of memorization, but the material is all interesting and you have plenty of time to prepare. Definitely take COM 101 with DeSantis.
If any professor knows how to keep college kids entertained, he's the one that knows how to do it. He is extremely fun, but also informative. The material from the workbook he gives out is exact material that is on the exams, and if I ever take another class he teaches I would request him again in a heartbeat.
Easy class, papers are super easy, tests are cake if you take notes and memorize the study guides. Tests are straight from the study guide. Lots of memorization. Uses examples from his life and his "sweethart" A LOT but I guess it keeps his lectures relevant and interesting. If you don't get an A+ in this class you probably shouldn't be in college.
He was so awesome! He was really really clear in his material! Although, I really liked the class it isn't just an easy A! But it is easy if you do what he requires! He is extremely funny and well worth the attendance. He makes every class fun!!
DeSantis is a very strong lecturer, so if you're the kind of student that can go off of a lecture alone, he's your man. Anything you don't understand about content can be better understood by visiting his office hours, but he will NOT help with the nuts and bolts (attendance, grading procedures) and will redirect you to his TAs. Good professor.
Super awesome and interesting. Tests cover a large amount of information. But if you have good attendance it really doesn't matter. Most interesting teacher I've ever had.
DeSantis is a wonderful professor. Lectures are interesting. Go to class and take notes. 3 exams and 3 papers, all very easy. Tests come straight from the study guide and are simple memorization. Take the class!
Absolutely wonderful! He is what got me interested in communications. Great class, easy to understand, and very interesting and funny. Def. take it!
When I first saw a communications class on my (advisor-given) schedule, I was begrudging; isn't that just a subject area for people who don't want a marketable college degree? But Dr. DeSantis convinced me otherwise; his lectures are utterly fascinating and he delivers them in an expertly engaging manner. I wish I could take another class with him.
He is a great teacher and all but all he does is read off his powerpoint. Like just send us the powerpoint online so we do not have to waste time waking up in the morning to get to class.
Amazing class, easily the best class I've taken at UK. He's very interesting and put his heart into all of his lectures. Tests are harder than you would expect, just memorize everything.
The class is very interesting and I truly appreciated the passion he has for the topic. You can only miss two classes, which can be difficult. The test include a lot of information that is hard to finish with the 50 minutes you are provided. Wish there were more smaller quizzes than three large test...
He's one of the best professors I've ever had. However, I dropped his class because his tests were way too difficult. He makes class very interesting and he's really funny. But I wouldn't recommend this for a freshman.
I took this class because everyone raved and ranted about it. I don't understand why. His tests are just absurd. I went to talk with a TA about my grade (since he doesn't grade them) and I got full points taken off questions for not explaining it their way, even though the TA said the answer was technically still right. Waste of my time.
TESTS ARE RIDICULOUS! fun class though. attendance is mandatory or you will fail. TA's grade so hard its unreal, i escaped with a C
Fun class!
Without a doubt the best class I've had at UK! He is so passionate about what he teaches and he puts so much energy into his lectures. Always makes you laugh. Tests are LENGTHY, not difficult. Just memorize the notes! I love Dr. DeSantis!
Absolutely loved dr. Desantis. After taking this class I changed my major to communications. He is very helpful during office hours and is turkey passionate about heat he does. Test come straight from the notes so pay attention.
Tests are all writing and you have to remember a lot of information so follow study guide and memorize info. 3 easy essays plus 3 tests
Very good! Learned a lot of new information about things. Definitely makes you think about the things you're exposed to in life.
Really energetic and entertaining. One of the more entertaining classes I've taken. He can have somewhat of a big ego but, its not too bad. To prepare for his test i suggest making flashcards and studying them.
I don't understand how he has so many good ratings. He is so full of himself and is not a smart guy. All the ideas he teaches are common sense which makes it irritating to have to memorize such specific lists and have to write your hand off during the exams just to finish. Not particularly hard just pointless and irritating to listen to.
Class is interesting and he is a great lecturer. Material isn't hard but I never had enough time to finish the exams & they are graded harsh. Exam questions come from notes & are 100% memorization. He sends out a study guide before exams but there will usually be a section on the exams that he doesn't cover on the study guide.
He is rude to students and makes us feel like we don't know anything. Arrogant! Very egotistical. He is mean, and demanding. We had to work hard and he acted like we were losers. It was disappointing taking this class and it was annoying listening to how much he LOVES himself. Take other classes or you will regret it!
His lectures are interesting and he presents the information well. The tests are 100% memorization and the grading is strict. Study the notes!
RIDICULOUSLY tough for an intro class. Yes you learn a lot, but you'll also be spending hours prioritizing studying this class over others, especially during exam weeks. Wouldn't recommend to somebody who's a full time student.
Let me help everyone out: COM 101 is good but, whatever you do during your time here, DO NOT TAKE DESANTIS FOR UPPER LEVEL CLASS! He is not as good with smaller classes as he is with large lecture halls. You will hear horror stories about taking his 400 & 500 level classes. Stick through 101 and never deal with him again.
Wonderful teacher! Dr. D knew his stuff and was so excited about teaching. Great and interesting class. Study for exams and start studying like 2 weeks in advance. YOU WILL FAIL IF YOU DON'T STUDY! Tests are non multiple choice, it is all short answer. GO TO CLASS ON TIME! Will call you out if u walk in late. Would take this class again!!
He''s the man.
Love Dr. D! I had his film class and absolutely loved it. If you are a junior or senior in Communications you must take it! Its a lot better than 101 because there are only a few students and you really get to know him. He is very passionate about film so its a blast.
Loved his class... recommend !!!
He is a fantastic teacher!... made me want to go to class because of how fun it was and interesting
Dr. Desantis is amazing. The course is fum and very interesting.
He can be a real ass, but his class is super interesting and he does a really good job teaching it. Really good professor, but not so great of a person.
Interesting professor! Dr. D knew his stuff and really makes you think about things. you must go to class because if not you will miss a lot of information. His exams are non multiple choice, all short answer so you must know the material. Overall, I would take this class again.
Great professor! I definitely recommend this class. Make sure you study for exams two weeks in advance it is not multiple choice, all comprehension.
Dr. DeSantis is a good professor who presents the material in an interesting manner, even though at times it seems like pure common sense. He tries too hard to be "cool" and is a bit arrogant. Tests on concepts. So, memorization is necessary but not difficult to do if you just go to class.
Dr. Desantis is a FANTASTIC teacher he teaches the whole class as if everyone has ADHD. IT's very interesting and he follows his book exactly. He cracks jokes constantly throughout class and the best part is most of them are funny. However, his test are awful, you will most likely run out of time and be prepared to write your hand off!!!
I did great on all the assignments and most of the tests. However because of attendance and one zero on a small assignment I got a C. He calls kids out occasionally and is frustrated when people walk in late. Great material though, very relevant. His information is biased though for sure. The textbook he uses is just a book full of all his slides.
The dude is cool, don't get me wrong, and he's an awesome speaker too. However, he comes off as arrogant because he won't answer emails. I mean at least pretend like you care about our success. Aside from that, the tests require memorization but just go to class and the concepts come easily. Anyone with a brain can get an A in this class.
Absolutely loved his class during lecture but he can be very rude every other time. If you contact him with questions of any kind he acts as if you've offended him and with much attitude tells you to go to a TA. So just go to your TA first.
DeSantis is a really good professor, he just expects a lot from his students in a 100 level class. Exams are entirely too hard for the level of coursework, but if you go to class and memorize the notes you'll do fine. He seems really arrogant and he rarely responds to emails. But overall a decent professor. Goodentertaining lectures.
DeSantis is an awesome lecturer, everything except for the tests are easy. I had to take this class for UKcore, the class was truly interesting but if you need anything talk to the TA not DeSantis because he will only tell you to email them.
Dr. D is a fantastic lecturer. I definitely got sick of his sarcastic comments by the end of the semester, but he sure does know what hes talking about. Information on the tests comes straight off of the slides. Memorize the study guide and you will get a 100% on the exams. Attendance is mandatory though.
I always loved Dr. D's lectures; they were entertaining and I learned something every day. He is not one to respond to every student's emails, but he does have 600 students every semester. That's what the TAs are there for. The exams were much more difficult than other 100 level classes I've taken and attendance is mandatory.
He's awesome. Funny yet teaches you a lot. almost everything he teaches pertains to everyday life. Take his class.
Absolute garbage. I took this because my advisor said it would be interesting and he knew what he was doing but it couldn't have been further from the truth. Papers assinged were vauge and centered on his own vocab he only mentions in specific lectures and he expects you to buy a "workbook" that is literally his PowerPoint slides printed out, $40
I was shocked to see Dr. DeSantis. He is my absolute favorite professor, such an amazing lecturer. I would look forward to his class, he's so funny and entertaining and makes the material so much easier to learn. The tests are hard and long, but studying is easy because the material is fun and interesting. Papers are easy. Love Dr. D
DeSantis is not only the most rude professor I've ever had, he's also the worst. He has an ego the size of his big head, and is constantly saying something offensive. He stays unprofessional and offensive. In addition, he makes you pay $50 for a textbook that is comprised only of his powerpoint slides.
I really enjoyed Dr. DeStanis's lectures, he moved around and made the class actually interesting to learn. He didn't have many tests but they required a lot of writing and cover everything.
very funny, lectures fly by, material doesn't seem hard but the exams are difficult and you need to study a lot, and make sure you buy his textbook
Fun class, but hard.
Definitely my favorite class so far. As long as you go to class and take the notes (definitely buy the textbook-it makes note taking much easier), you'll pass the class easily. The study guides are extensive and cover everything you will be tested over. Know the study guide and you'll easily ace the tests!
Dr. Desantis is absolutely hilarious. COM101 is super relevant to everyday life and after taking his class you see the entire world differently. As long as you stay on his good side, and study hard for the exams, this class is an easy A.
Dr. D is amazing! The tests are tough but ONLY if you don't study (they are based solely on the study guides). He may seem arrogant at times but it's to be expected from a professor of his status. As long as you show up and pay attention, it's great. His lectures are long but fun. Don't get on his bad side and the class will be an easy A.
The class is extremely easy as long as you show up for class and study for the tests. DeSantis is straight to the point, and keeps lectures interesting. Do NOT expect to just go in there and play on your phone because you must fill in the notes.
This class is so interesting and easy to pay attention in. Desantis is so funny and engaging, I love his class! There are few assignments and the tests are tough but not impossible. Learn the concepts and you'll get an A on every exam! I would take this class again. He has been my favorite prof so far.
DeSantis' lectures are amazing. When you study your notes for the exams, you can literally think back to when he said those notes and when you took them. He has a lasting impression on most kids that take the class.
One of the most entertaining classes I have ever taken. Desantis knows how to make his material exciting and interesting. His exams are difficult, but he grades papers easily. This class is a must take. I would highly recommend getting your hands on his workbook for class however, it'll make your life much easier.
Dr. DeSantis' lectures were very interesting, but his presentation of the material is sometimes confusing. Don't bother emailing him with questions because he won't reply. His grading is very tough for an intro class, and additionally, he is insensitive to students personal situations.
Great lectures but sometimes they feel like 1hr 15 min classes. He assigns two paper each of them are due a week after the exam. The class is an easy A as long as you use your time wisely when studying for his exams.
Tests are word by word from the book. Buy the book better than handwritten notes.
Great teacher, attendance is essential because the notes aren't online. The exams are exactly like the notes.
COM 101 was an amazing class. I found Dr. Desantis to be extremely interesting and smart. He told us on the first day of class to "give me 50 minutes of your life three times a week, and I will change it." He was not kidding. Tests are all short answer but if you study the book well it is cake. Highly recommend.
COM 101 with DeSantis was honestly a lot of fun. Tests are pretty clear cut, just make sure you know everything on the study guide. Give a good effort on all assignments, take good notes, study for the tests and you should have no problem getting an A. He usually won't remind you about assignments so make sure you stay on top of things.
You're supposed to buy this huge note packet which is basically printouts of the PowerPoint presentations he goes over. Be prepared to do a lot of writing in this note packet at high speed. He goes over the slides very quickly. If you fall behind, you're going to have to beg your classmates for their notes. Classes are big and there's not much help
DeSantis's an eccentric kind of professor to say the least. You have to buy his heavy and giant note packet and bust your knuckles trying to keep up with him as he goes through the slides from which you have to fill in the blanks in the notes. He's not very sympathetic to individual student needs. His TAs are among the laziest I have ever seen.
I have him right now for COM101 and he's awesome. I got a 98 on my first exam and only studied for an hour or two the night before. He makes his own "textbook" thats pretty cheap, and its all fill-in-the-blank slides. It's really easy as long as you pay attention, which isn't hard because his lectures are so engaging. 10/10! Love Dr. D.
Dr. DeSantis is a very smart but sometimes his ego gets in the way of things.
Very, very interesting class, I've learned so much from it, however, DeSantis and his TAs are so lazy and not prompt at all. I received 0% help from them. The tests are 100% written and he only puts half of the stuff on the study guide on the them. I wouldn't go through this class again, even if you paid me.
Great class just based on the film selections, however DeSants wasn't much of a help, didn't seem to appreciate or care about our ideas, skipped over people asking questions in lecture, said over again he wasn't a tough grader but he is very specific. Overall a cool class, great movies, mediocre professor. Gave us the final guide 4 days before test
COM 101 has been my favorite class, but you need to know the study guide forwards and backwards to get an A on the tests. All tests are essays and finished with maybe 10 seconds left in class.
Dr. DeSantis is by far the best professor in the communication department; I would even go as far as to say he is one of the best professors on campus. The class is very engaging but the tests are all written exams, so definitely study the study guide from the second it is available.
COM 101 was an awesome class that was interesting, a lot of amazing lectures. Those tests are no joke though
Dr. Desantis is the man. I took 101 and 553 and they were both pretty interesting. Dr. Desantis truly cares about his students, and if you see him during office hours he is more than willing to help, and give extra leeway if needed. Don't skip class and you will be fine.
Professor DeSantis' class is very interesting. It's obvious he knows what he is talking about but as a girl taking his class, it is so uncomfortable. The way he talks about and refers to girls is unsettling and it's hard to focus in class with some of the comments he makes.
I took this class not knowing what I was in for. You have to know absolutely everything about the study guide to get a passing grade on the test. Desantis and his TA's are grading nazi's. You have to be perfect to get an A in this class. His TA's and Desantis provide no help. if you need help with the exam or papers don't bother asking for help.
This class is so fun, but you better be ready to take good notes and STUDY for exams. all exams are essay or extended response and i studied forever and got a B. I have an A in the class but it wasn't easy and took lots of work. his lectures are so fun and he is hilarious though! overall, challenging but awesome!
COM 101 is the best class I have ever taken, I love Dr. Desantis. He is hilarious and extremely intelligent. I have heard he is really nice during office hours as well! Buy the textbook he makes, go to class everyday, and don't procrastinate the papers and you will get an A.
This class is beyond interesting. Dr. D knows exactly what he is talking about and how to make the lectures as interesting as possible. Exams are written responses and pretty difficult, so make sure you know EVERYTHING included in the unit. Do not miss class and memorize all the notes. One of my favorite classes, just not an easy A. Work for the A.
You will do fine if you study for exams. It is basically your entire grade and it is all open essay.
The most interesting class you could ever take. Would think he such a nice professor but in reality he is a tenure teache. He loads up your study guide and you cant have electronics out to take notes in class. You have zero time to waste in class. he says the book is optional but you NEED the book. Don't criticize him hell lower your grade. trustme
Dr. Desantis makes the class super interesting. There's a couple short and easy papers but the bulk of your grade is tests. He gives you a study guide, so as long as you really study you'll do fine in this class. I loved it, Desantis is a great teacher.
I took COM 101 and I really loved the class. You have to put in alot of time looking over the study guide but if you know the study guide you'll do great on the test. 2 papers but they are basically grade boosters. Very intersting class.
There's not a lot of human beings that I genuinely don't care for at all, however Alan DeSantis is one of them. Egotistic as they come, this man abuses his power and will not go out of his way at all to help you. Don;'t expect much from the TA's either. STAY AWAY! BEWARE! AVOID AT ALL COSTS! Seriously though..
Interesting class but NOT worth taking. His lectures consist of filling in his "textbook" which is basically a huge powerpoint with blanks. Tests are a sprint to the finish line and he's so lazy he doesn't have many other assignments to help your grade. Was very disappointed with his class and regret taking it. Stuck up Dr. flaunting credentials.
go to class and you'll pass. test are long and free response but are identical to study guides. really interesting and desantis makes it a fun class.
Stickler about attendance- do not take him if you are not one to regularly attend classes. Lecture material is interesting and DeSantis makes it fun. The workbook is absolutely necessary, all the test material comes from the workbook.
You have to go to class or else your attendance grade with affect you negatively. He tries to make his lectures super fun and entertaining. You are not allowed to have phones, computers or really ANY technology in the class or you will get called out for it. He is extremely personable and seems to love what he teaches.
So I'm guessing you are just like me, trying to take a freshman level course, either to squash that UK core or maybe your major requires you take this course. Prof. DeSantis is a great teacher, in terms of lectures. You will enjoy every single lecture, and learn new things. However, his exams are EXTREMELY tough and bulky. I barely scraped an A.
Attendance is important DO NOT SKIP if you value your grade. Lectures are very interesting, Dr. DeSantis is an engaging professor. No technology in class and workbook is very important for lectures and exams. Disappointed with grading- I had mid-high A's on all assignments but was given a B+ due to missing two classes.
My most favorite professor and i'm only a rising sophomore! Everything is easy IF YOU PAY ATTENTION AND ATTEND EVERY SINGLE CLASS! He isn't a tough guy but he doesn't want you to slack. Life lessons are taught in this class, so inspirational. if you say you didn't enjoy his lecture 3 times a week then you need to reevaluate life.
You either love Desantis or you hate him. I loved his class!! His lectures are interesting and he really knows how to command a room of 300 students. YOU MUST ATTEND CLASS to get a good grade. Along with this if you listen and fill out the ENTIRE study guide and really memorize it you are golden. The test questions are exactly from the study guide.
DeSantis is the best professor that I've ever taken at UK, if you skip class, you definitely won't pass because attendance is one of the main grades. There are only 2-3 papers and 2 tests, the rest is lecturing. YOU NEED THE WORKBOOK, he bases all of the tests off of the material in the book.
He is a very tough teacher. You get up to 3 absences and then he removes 2.5 percent off of your grade. Every time you walk in after he has started his lecture, it counts as an absence. The exams are all written response and you only get 45 minutes to take them. Most of the topics he talks about in class seem made up and repetitive.
He is an amazing teacher definitely loved taking his class but you definitely need to buy the workbook without it you won't pass the class. The study guides he gives you are word for word from the book and on the test. Only 3 exams and 2 papers.
Dr. Desantis is a very interesting speaker and his lectures are basically common sense. Once he explains topics and content to the class, it is very easy to connect to your daily life. Lets are long response and need to be specific but as long as you go through the study guide material you'll be fine. He kinda looks like Ross Geller.
Great speaker. Gives very few point opportunities. Gives study guides, but they arent helpful at all. Spent a lot of time working hard in this class but felt impossible to get an A. Professor is harsh to students for being late or on phones. So harsh you are too scared to talk to him. Wouldnt take this class if you dont have to.
THIS class isnt honestly the worst class Ive ever taken. If you are trying to have an even be slightly decent GPA, NEVER take this class. Tests are ridiculously hard, all free response, and you barely have enough time to finish. Professor not approachable what so ever. Class is out of 100 points total. Completely ridiculous.
He puts way too much information on the exams, he only gives three exams that cover over 300 pages per exam. These are notes that he gives us and expects to memorize word for word. He was excessively hard for no reason.
Seemingly random topics, test are complete memorization, unapproachable, papers barely impact your grade, basically 3 assignments make up your grade, don't take this class if you like applying your knowledge to show that you've learned anything, youll just buy the 40 dollar book and study the study guide that doesn't reflect the test
Want help? Too bad. Need advice on how to pass an assignment? Too bad. Dr. DeSantis is that professor that you think is a nice guy, but as you get to know him he turns into a horrible person. One of his core values it to treat everyone with respect, but then will yell in your face. Only take this course if you HAVE to.
SO HARD! He is super nice and engaging and funny, but I have never studied more for an exam to just get a C. Cant miss more than 3 classes or he subtracts 5 points from your 100 point grade total. It is a good class but he makes it a disaster sadly :( good guy love desantis but would not recommend if not mandatory.
baller teacher. very passionate. if he dont like you he will let you know. but he loves most. very smart and very easy to understand. loved the class.
Hardest 100 level class you'll ever take but also learned more in this class than any other class in college. Desantis is a great lecturer and has a lot of passion in his work. He is very egotistic though and thinks the world revolves around him. He clearly thinks he's the most important person in the room and he'll let you know it.
He's very passionate about his lectures and the content he's teaching. Some people may say he's egotistic but I really think he wants us as students to understand the theories and content because it's actually really interesting. If you go to the lectures and pay attention, you'll basically just have to review for the exams. Interesting content!!
It was the worst class I've ever taken. It's supposed to be a com class about pop culture, but instead you watch films from 1957. I'm not quite sure how that is relating to com at all. You take a quiz on every movie, which even if you watch the movie you will most likely fail. It's a required course. So change your focus of com, like now!
"communication and persuasion in pop culture" - really, a film class?? You watch 15 films ranging from 1957 - 2007. Not enjoyable, quite disturbing as well. A lot are in the sexual context. and he often brings up sexual references to the whole class. This class made me immensely uncomfortable with being a student. dont take the class if possible
I had DeSantis for Com 101. He is a very funny guy who will try to make his lectures interesting. The textbook is a printout of all of his slides that he presents in class and you fill in the blanks. It is easy to follow but he does not cover the whole book. He makes the class interesting and he makes you really think about your life.
Dr. Desantis is very passionate about what he teaches, but if you skip class YOU WILL NOT PASS. Your grade is deducted after more than 3 unexcused skips so make sure you have excuses for whatever reason if needed. The exams are tough if you don't know the material like the back of your hand. You'll also have to write 3 papers, be prepared to study.
If you're considering taking this class. DONT. If you think he would be a good teacher. HES NOT. His lectures are interesting and the information is actually interesting but he might be the worst professor I've ever had in my whole entire life. His exams are all essay questions and grades them really hard and if you miss class 3 times you fail.
Attendance can make or break your grade in the end, lectures are hardly ever boring and he gives a lot of real life examples to match with lecture and makes some of the content really funny.
DeSantis is the man! He takes attendance very seriously as well as phone use which makes him come off as controlling but it's worth putting your phone down. His lectures are super interesting and he always has a lot of energy and makes lectures super engaging. Make sure to take close notes during these. He's a great guy and would take him any day.
DeSantis is the single best teacher I've had in college. You have to show up to class and actually study to pass, but his lectures are hilarious and very interesting.
His lectures are really interesting, I just wish he'd tell give and stress the importance of completing the study guide ahead of the first of only 4 test! Only 10 grades all semester and everything can make or break your good grade.
One of the best professors that I have had at UK. He made the content so interesting. Attendance is mandatory but the class is pretty fun so going to class is actually worth it. Buy his book, all the information that you'll need for your test is in the book. People without it struggled. Made me change my major because he was so great.
His lectures and content are interesting but his exams are strictly hand written essay questions that are extremely difficult to finish in the allotted time and the questions are graded very harshly. Also if you miss class more than 3 times you will lose a lot of points. Overall the class is not worth it at all unless you are required to take it.
To receive a good grade you must show up to class. Test require adamant study time. He is the best professor Ive had here at UK. Lectures are interesting and very enjoyable. This class teaches you a lot and I would definetly recommend.
Attendance. Attendance. Attendance. Miss more than 3 classes youre DONE for. The policies for what is and isnt excused is confusing and if youre late by 1 min you get marked down. 3 lates is an absence. Failing the course due to lates when I would have an 85% otherwise. Worked my butt off for the grades I got too. YOU HAVE TO STUDY WORD FOR WORD
Com 101 with DeSantis is the best class I have ever taken. There is no other class or professor that brings to life real world issues and topics like DeSantis. He explains exactly how to prepare for exams and the material is so interesting I honestly had no problem studying for them. I would 100% recommend this class to anyone.
The final class grade was only determined by a few things (three tests and two papers). For the tests, you had to memorize a lot, and you barely had enough time to finish the short-answer exams.
The class is lecture heavy but DeSantis makes it interesting which actually made me want to go to class. There are very few grades that go in the gradebook so theres not much room for error. The test are completely short answer questions but the study guide he gives in advance makes it impossible to fail the test. Easy if you do the work. Loved it
COM 101 was a very interesting class but it was way too hard for a 101 - there are only 7 or 8 grades that go in for the entire semester so anything can make or break you. DeSantis can also be very crass sometimes during his lectures too. The tests are complete memorization of 5 weeks worth of material so get ready to STUDY or you won't pass.
Alan DeSantis is the most unprofessional professor I have ever met. He has no respect for his students, and their backgrounds. Although he is passionate about what he teaches, he has no filter. He disrespects those that don't agree with his opinion, and he fails to show compassion to students needs.
Professor DeSantis was one of the worst professors that I have had a UK. He is totally unprofessional and unwilling to help out the student. He is completely disrespectful, especially if you do not agree with him. Attendance is also mandatory. If you don't attend class you will fail. If you can avoid this professor, I would at all cost!
This is one of the most difficult classes Ive ever had and its literally a movie class. He does NOT care about his students grades. There are only a few things that go in the grade book, so one thing can mess up your whole grade. Quizzes are all memorization and you have 5-6 min (literally) to take them. Avoid this teacher if you can.
This is the most difficulty film class I have ever taken. His final is all short answer, like why? What does he get out of failing students. I care about my grades and I watched every movie in the class, and still couldn't pass the final.
Hardest class ever.... 2.5% of your grade is dropped PER class you miss unless it is excused. There are no chances to save your grades if you miss a question or two on the quizzes that you are give ONLY 5 minutes to take (yes im serious). do not recommend!!!
Do not, I repeat, DO NOT take this class. So inconsiderate of students. Thinks he is very successful and makes sure students know it. You miss a single quiz and you can kiss your A grade, a goodbye. Very tough grader. Miss 2 classes, he takes off 2.5% from your final grade, yeah, he does that. Thinks he can say anything in his class.
You will mess up your GPA if you take this class. He is the worst professor I have had ever since High School. He thinks he can straight out say bad things about a whole race or people from a different country just because his class deals with that stuff. Very bad grader. Will never ever take this class or ask anybody to take this class.
Hated me for taking this class. What was I thinking? He thinks all students are already trying to cheat through his system. Only if he thought why even he thinks that would be the only way to go through it. The most difficult class ever.
His quizzes are based on a short amount of time, but if you watch the films they are very easy. The lectures he gave were very interesting and I learned a lot about different cultures. the way it was organized was very fascinating. Overall I really found this class interesting! Also, he is very strict on attendance.
He is rude and disrespectful. He has no understanding for his students and expects student to take pages of notes while participating while he talks at a million miles per hour. if you can avoid his class please do. it was a mistake taking his class it made my semester miserable
He is one of the most disrespectful and one of the meanest professor ever. He is VERY passive aggressive. He does not care about you or your education at all.
This was a fully online course,& he definitely makes up for it in lectures. The lectures are primarily very long, so if you take a 6wk term, be prepared to watch both a film and a few lectures almost every night of the week. The lectures are 100% necessary to the exam, but honestly interesting and well explained. He's very cool and moral!
A great professor that has very interesting lectures everyday and always puts a very cool spin on things.
DeSantis was extremely disrespectful and unprofessional, not to mention creepy. I would not take one of his classes again, he treats students like garbage and treats us like we are stupid. I don not understand how he still works here.
He makes the class harder than it is with tough grading and also the exams are mainly open open ended and essay questions No multiple choices. He also has the notion that students are lazy so anything you tell him is an excuse and an immediate 0
don't waste your time. weekly quizzes are due at five pm on a tuesday and the only exam is over the entire semester. speaks at a lighting pace then gets annoyed when no when can engage in discussion because we're all desperately taking paragraphs of notes RUDE.will speak down to you, obviously thinks all college students are lazy and untrustworthy
Movie quizzes are due every Tuesday at 5 pm so if you work or have other classes you are pretty much screwed. Gives an hour-long lecture in class every day and speaks extremely fast. If you take notes on your computer hell call you out in front of the class for not paying attention. WORST com teacher I've had a UK hope to never get him again.
He lectures a lot but the class is overall a pretty easy A. His quizzes are easy if you watch all the movies and these quizzes are the bulk of your grade. Attendance is mandatory, but he does cancel a fair amount. The final exam is cumulative over the whole semester but only 15% of your grade.
DO NOT TAKE THIS CLASS. You miss one question on a quiz you will fail the class. I would not reccommend this course to anyone.
DO NOT TAKE THIS CLASS. I thought it was supposed to be an easy and fun elective and he takes it wayyy too seriously. The average grade for our final was legit a 39.5% and the high was an 83%.
The mean grade for our "fun elective" movie class final was a 42%. In no way shape or form should that happen in a college course that is under COM. Would not recommend his courses unless you would like to go until that specific field.
I really really enjoyed Professor Desantis' class the lectures were interesting and informative and the only homework was movie quizzes which are very easy if you watch the movies. The difficulty rating I gave is just because of the cumulative final; if you didn't watch and take notes for the lecture, you will most likely fail it.
This was the hardest class I have ever taken at UK, and I'm a senior. DeSantis' powerpoint lectures are completely filled with information and he teaches very quickly so writing down 1 hour and 15 minutes worth of content is nearly impossible. Good luck passing if you don't do good on the final - homework is worth 5 points. DO NOT TAKE THIS CLASS.
This is the hardest class I've ever taken at UK and I'm a senior. DeSantis' lectures are nonstop information for an hour and 15 minutes, and he doesn't slow down! Good luck passing if you don't do good on the final, homework is worth a mere 4.95 points. Also, he thinks all students are lazy and doesn't accept absences. DO NOT TAKE THIS CLASS.
Great lecturer, terrible class. I missed 3 classes and it dropped my grade by 6%. The final has an unreasonable amount of material. Tips: Take extensive notes and review them throughout the semester. DO NOT try to take the movie quizzes without watching the movies, do not have anything else more important. Too much effort for a meaningless class.
Just make sure to absolutely avoid taking any class with him. Horrible attitude and very rude. I went to my advisor about him and even my advisor had said there are many complaints about this guy...so WHY IS HE STILL HERE?!?!?
Engaging lectures, but the class requires a lot of effort. Quizzes on movies are easy if you watch them, but the final exam is challenging. Use unstuckstudy AI and take detailed notes for best results.
Alan Desantis was a great lecturer, he really was passionate about the topics he covered. The only work was watching a movie each week and completing a quiz, which was really easy as long as you watched the movies. The final was extensive, but if you took good notes throughout the semester and studied you should be okay. Attendance is mandatory!
Overall, he is very knowledgeable and gives a lot of information. He does his best to make the lectures interesting and is very passionate about the topics covered. The films are extremely important and missing even one movie quiz can severely hurt your grade. He is not forgiving about missing class, unless clear documentation is provided.
The worst I've had. A 13 short answer final (except each # had a A, B, and C section) over things not even on study guide! Numerous students gave up and walked out! Does not care about his students, narcissist, and sent an announcement out about the “ability to retake the class for those who needed” (aka anticipating to fail his students) avoid.
the worst professer ever. changed my grade from C to D the day before the final (open-ended) by giving a zero on something previously a 75. class is called intercultural communication in media and he turned it into a movie history class and if you didnt notice every tiny detail in the movie you would fail the quiz, majority of your grade.
Dr. DeSantis is very clearly knowledgeable and passionate about film but his class has a few key flaws. His attendance policy makes no sense. My final attendance grade does not at all match his policy or how many classes I missed. Seems like a cool guy if he wasn't a professor, but his class is not a slacker class, despite being about movies.
We learned so much in such little time. It's basically an advanced world history class. The movies have weight but what matters the most is the final (accumulated in person short essays) and showing up to class.
Class Info
Online Classes
100%
Attendance Mandatory
98%
Textbook Required
67%
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