He pretty clear about what he requires. But the tricky thing about Writing is it's all up to you. He doesn't have to do much, except give you a few suggestions.

He is very demanding, nevertheless gives you thesame attention that he reqests in return.

mr. o is cool his office hours are when you go talk about any problems you have and he goes to the limit to help any student who is open to his suggestions. english is a skill and he himself is a published professional which should speak for itsself

This is a brillant man and he is wasting his time in a Jr. college. I didn't pass his class but it wasn't all because of him. He was willing to help but it just wasn't enough. If you are confident in your writing skills then take his class. If you are less confident then try another teacher. But I gurantee you that you will learn alot with him.

very accessible,kind,smart

If you're lazy and just want to bs your way through some credits, you will not like him. If you actually want to go on to a college where you *gasp* learn things and have homework, take this class. It will prepare you.

I had Ortiz for a Newswriting Course, and was under his supervision for the school newspaper. I am now an English major at a public ivy, and I can say with confidence that Ortiz is knowledgeable and helpful. If you're looking to slack off, don't take his courses. His greatest service to his students comes across in his rigorous expectations.

Expect working hard for Ortiz' class. Expect academic rigor, impartialness when moderating class discussion and when grading. If you want to learn several things about writing take his challenging class. Ortiz tries to motivate students, pushes them to question the readings and think about them. If you just want to slack avoid his class.

the subject taught GLOBALIZATION was very interesting. English 102 was my favorite class.

i think that professor ortiz is beyond knowledgable and passionate about what he teaches. he was very supportive o my work during the class and afterwards, offering reccomendations and such to help me get into graduate school. upon first glance he may seen hard, but he is more than available to help any student.

Professor Ortiz might be challenging in many ways, but he is a fantastic teacher. His classes are fun, he encourages debate and really makes you think. I came out of his class with a real sense of achievement. It wasn´t easy but I am really grateful because he pushed me to believe in myself and my skills. One of my favorite classes.

very good teacher, not as hard as people claim he is...

I took Modern American Lit with Prof. Ortiz over the summer last year and it was an extraordinarily well run. He provided us with a binder covering the majority of the material and the few books we had to buy (cheap ones) I gladly added to my library as they were quality reading (Raymond Carver for example). Not a hard class and was a lot of fun!

Prof Ortiz has a passion for English and for getting students to expand their world view. He made himself available when you needed help. And he obviously wants you to succeed.

The News Paper Writing Class was a fantastic experience. Prof Ortiz varied the activities with interviews with real life journalists, current media stories and pertinent discussions of the day and the world of journalism. He was very clear as to what was expected in the class and gave you ample time to complete the assisgnments. Highly recommend!

Mr Ortiz is very passionate about his work. He makes you think and apply yourself. He provokes interesting debate in his classroom and turns a "have to get through class" into something you want to get to. If this doesn't interest a student then I have a hard time believing anything will.

Professor Ortiz holds very high standards and expectations. He cares a lot about news reporting. If you want an easy credit where little is asked of you, don't take this class. If you want to learn, improve your critical thinking and writing skills, and expect useful feedback you will get a lot out of this class. It isn't easy, but it's good.

Professor Ortiz is a great teacher. Honestly, this was one out of maybe two classes where two weeks after its over, I forget everything. The Professor is great,super laid back and he is the last of a dying breed, he is a professor who is actually there to teach, not just to get paid. No regrets, Prof.Ortiz taught me,not just talked to me,no regret

Mr. Ortiz is an outstanding teacher. If you want to be challenged and engaged, take one of his classes! I learned a lot more about journalistic writing and ethics and the importance of newswriting to communites than I imagined going into the class. I still recommend the supplementary text book to friends. It was fascinating and inspiring!

He is helpful, always available, and ready with a plethora of material and suggestions to ensure your success. Part of what comes out in his personality is his passion and that may be misconstrued as bad people skills. If you can bring yourself not to take his criticism personally, then you will surely achieve the most in your writing development.

Mr. Ortiz is a good Guy. I learned a lot about the world through his class andt the way he taught it, but I do feel that he needs to check his attitude at the door. He has his ways of making a student feel stupid. He is not a good listener, and he's always right. DONT take this class if you are not confident or he will eat you alive.

Prof.Ortiz helped me to reach deep within myself and come up with meaningful thoughts.If you are scared to be challenged,the class will be difficult.However Prof.Ortiz works with his students and is open to all views.This was the best class that I've ever taken.He even suggested that I join the school Newspaper.He has Charisma!

Mr. Ortiz's class is thought provoking, relevant and important. He teaches in a manner that is efficient and educational, while keeping the material current and interesting. Overall, I think he is a great teacher and his passion for his subject shows.

The man gives you office hours, a binder with copied texts, a detailed syllabus with requirements for cheap texts only. All you have to do is read, do the posts, and show up to discuss. He comes across as smarmy at first, but he knows what he's talking about! I really enjoyed his class and read stuff I might not have otherwise. A+

Professor Benjamin Ortiz is a well educated and more than help full professor. He explains things very well and his knowledge of literature and writing is very helpful. He makes the class fun and keeps the class up to date on new books as well. I recommend taking a class with this professor.

He is probably one of the best professors at Truman College. Keep on mind there aren't many of them in this school, but if you are looking through this site you already know what I'm talking about.If you don't get him or his classes- you shouldn't be in college at all. He keeps the level of teaching high, especially for this school. Peter

I am a non-native English speaker and with Prof. Ortiz I felt challenged and proud of myself for learning so much. I gained my AA in Journalism, something that I never imagined that I would accomplish in another language. Prof. Ortiz's method of teaching is precise and can be difficult for some, if they are not committed to what college demands.

As a student dealing with anxiety issues, Professor Ortiz' nervous energy coupled with being forced to sit in a circle made me a mess at first, but my writing improved exponentially. He expects a lot from his students, which is exactly what someone willing to challenge themselves needs. Class can be quite engaging and includes guest speakers.

Has lots of real world experience and inside knowledge to news reporting and writing.

His class wasn't hard but challenging.It was not like a class where we go, get a study guide, and study before exam just to get over with it.I realized how it's like to be a real college student in his class.We learned to think critically about real life problems, and many more.I still miss his class because we don't have many teachers like him

After reading some of the posts on this site I am confused as to the reason why some people even attempt to attend college. Community college is not (and should not be) the final destination for anyone looking to better their lives. It is a bridge and where a student decides to take that bridge is up to them. On a student?s road towards a diploma t

News Reporting/Writing w/ B. Ortiz improved my creative, news, and PR writing. Learn news ethics/principals and methods for writing objectively. Beware, Ben runs newspaper w/ industry experience and holds you to industry standards! With real-world contacts and resources student journalists and community members should take advantage of this class!

Prof. Ortiz is one of the best teachers I have ever had at Truman. He is dedicated to his work and to his students. He will make time for you to help make things clear and efficient. He pulled me through some difficult times and taught me not to give up by continuing improving my grammar and work in general. Thanks for everything Prof. Ortiz!

At first, I thought he was a little harsh in grading my papers. At the end of the semester it dawned on me how passionate he is about teaching. He really cares about his students. I think he gets bad press because a lot of students aren't used to his teaching style. If you're doing badly in his class, seek him out! It's not high school.

He is very passionate teacher. His class was challenging. In his class I realized how it?s like to be a real college student. We learned about real life problems and how to think critically. We had dynamic class discussion. He is very specific about his assignment. What I learned from his class is still with me We dont have many teacher like him.

Mr. Ortiz is the best English teacher I have ever had. I am more of Math/Science person but after taking his English course my writing drastically improved. If an easy A is desired then take someone else but if you want to improve and write well take his class. My advice is to attend his office hours, he will work with you. I recommend him.

Prof. Ortiz class was not only about English itself, but he brought a wealth of knowledge and class discussions about current global issues that challenged the way we think, allowing the writing process to be much richer than I ever thought possible. He also allowed students to pick their own subject to develop a final paper. Great class!

Mr. Ortiz truly motivated me to write, he challenged me to get to the peak of my capacities, and more importantly, his class made me aware of global issues. Through the readings, I understood that I have a responsibility with community. A VERY interesting class. I'll recommend it to any body whose desires of improvement are strong indeed.

Mr. Ortiz is an excellent teacher. I had some journalism experience prior to the course. However, by taking this course I realized how my work transitioned and got better. He brings his experience to the class. He is always willing to help and makes the class engaging. I highly recommend this course; it will improve your writing skills.

He's extremely knowledgable, and I feel that he helped me greatly improve my writing ability. It is a difficult class, though, and he expects a lot out of his students, so be prepared to work for your grade!

through Prof Ortiz's teachings, i came upon the realization that my literary knowledge was oh so limited. his class introduced me to a great deal of new ideas and i was able to develop opinions on key issues. i recommend this class to anyone that wants to be challenged and has critical thinking and learning in mind..

Prof. Ortiz is an excellent teacher. His approach is methodical, demanding, precise, and engenders the kind of critical thinking colleges should demand. Powerful and dynamic discussions, well-chosen text and supplemental materials, and a passionate and energetic teacher made ENG 102 great. I am a better writer. University quality at CCC price.

Mr. Ortiz raises is above the standards of what people usually think about CCC teachers. Expect hard work, lots of in-class discussions based on textbook lectures,and grading based on thorough analysis of your work and effort. All of these traslate into a sharpening of your writing skills that will be useful when you transfer to a university.

Excellent teacher. Thank you Ben for such a wonderful E 102 Class!

Mr. Ortiz expects his students to excell, I for one thought his class was difficult; however I began to write things I never thought was possiable. I would tell any and everyone to take this class if you want to find a great writer, and reseacher inside of your self. Please people don't let this stuff scare you, Ortiz is a great instructor. COLEMAN

I took Mr. Ortiz's class as a fill in class with no prior experience/interest in journalism. However, I soon discovered my writing and critical thinking skills improving due to his influence. Mr. Ortiz is flexible and gets that his class is not your only class. So if you're going to be late w/ an assignment its not the end of the world with him.

Ben is not an easy teacher. He wont let you slip by, but if you apply yourself, you will not regret it. His foundation gave me a good head start over my classmates when I transferred to Columbia

The course was very informative and well taught. The instructor was very opinionated (and I expect no less!)and was very open and fair when listening to our ideas and opinions. The instuctor helped foster an environment for animated and productive discussions/debates which I really appreciated. The writing assignments were very well worth my time.

If you want to really learn how to excel at writing, then this is your class! Mr Ortiz gets the best out of you, does not compromise and in my book, that is a tremendous favour! It was not easy but I applied myself and it was worth it! If you can cope with his restless personality, then you will be fine!

I had Professor Ortiz for Eng 102 & Newspaper & I'll gladly have him for my other required journalism courses. Some think he's tough, but I found him to be very clear in what he requires - he's not a babysitter! I like that he pushes us to excel! He was accessible when we had questions & always emailed us during the week to check in. Great class!!

Mr. Ortiz is an excellent professor. I am very satisfied with his teaching. He has high expectations for his student which help you enhance and develop your skill and style as a writer for different fields. This college newspaper class gave me insight on how it is to work in a newsroom. Mr. Ortiz brings experience and friendship to his classes.

Ortiz can appear harshly critical at times, but he's also honest, accessible, and is critical only because he has a great deal of faith in his students and what they're capable of. Additionally, he's open about his own work as a journalist, including being open to student critiques of it. He's at least on par with teachers at more expensive schools

It's pretty interesting how most of the replies here are by people that can't even write a complete sentence and aren't registered users.

The class was a lot of work, and it pushed me, but I feel that I learned a lot. The text was interesting and thought provoking. I feel that this class helped me grow my critical writing and analysis ability.

I like the fact that this professor actually takes his time to make sure no one is behind. When i fell behind he took time from his personal time to make sure I understood everything and was able to write a well written paper. Thanks Mr. Ortiz.

This is my THIRD class with Professor Ortiz and can't wait to take my 4th!!!

Ben is a fantastic professor. He won't hold your hand and coddle you like a lot of other teachers will, and that's a good thing - he challenges you. He's always been fair and if you take the class seriously, he will take you seriously. Novel concept.

Professor Ortiz is an excellent proffesor. At first I found his class to be a bit confusing but after the first essay, everything was easy to follow. He has a very unorthodox style of teaching, but I find it very dynamic and interesting. Overall, I enjoyed his class very much. All the student needs to do, is to pay attention and read the syllabus.

Ortiz is a tough critic but his class will help you develop your writing skills. If you are interested in learning, progressing and testing yourself, I would recommend a class with him. Don't let his manner scare you off. Ben is just Simon Cowell without the British charm! He has relevant journalistic experience and high standards

ENG-102 with prof. Ortiz was a fast-paced class to me, but if you go prepared and focused, you can handle it. It was hardwork, but if you put effort into it, it pays off! He's clear about what he wants and he's there if you need help. He makes you bring your best writing to the table, so no wonder my next 2 English classes will be taken with him!

While some of his former students rate him as mean and difficult, would you rather get an easy A and be left unprepared in the future, or would you rather work hard, receive honest feedback, and walk away from the class with the tools and experience needed for success in the future? No, he's not easy. But neither is the real world. Get used to it.

He is a good teacher, extremely smart and knowledgable about the subject nmatter. He can definitely help you become a better writer. However, he is kind of a jerk. He is very sarcastic and not very understanding at all.

He actually goes through your writing and edits the content. He went through the entire paper piece by piece and explained everything to us. Ben Ortiz will really make you understand what writing is all about and let you know what you need to focus on in your own writing! If you want to learn how to be a good writer take this class

He is a great teacherKnows his material and can help you become a better writer. However,he is a jerk at times.I got an A in his class and he still managed to make me feel stupid for coming to him for help sometimes.I beleive however, if you do want an A out of him,you have to meet with him about your papers alot in order to get them right.

Ortiz knows the ins and outs of the field of news reporting and uses examples from his experience to illustrate the field of journalism.

I have taken Eng 150, 151, 152 and 153 with prof. Ortiz in 2010/11. He expects you to do assignments, submit them on time but he also gives extensions, reads students' assig'ts n gives timely feedback. He brings to class journalists who are currently in the industry and that helps

Prof. Ortiz is a great teacher. While he expects a great deal from his students, this is matched by always being available. As for his classes, they are interesting, interactive, and he has real world experience. If you put in the work, you will walk away a much better writer.

When coming into Mr. Ortiz's class I was really intimidated, knowing his credentials. Through the course of his class I found confidence in my writing. He expects a lot from his students but from that I was able to develop a higher level of writing. If I could suggest... TAKE HIS CLASS! The benefits will be life long! Promise!

Highly Impressive, Prof. Ortiz is one of the most efficient and inspiring professors. While his assignments are not easy, he will teach you how to write! He takes time to answer your questions and promptly returns emails. Eng 150 is a rewarding experience! He offers weekly meets, monthly seminars, and chances to publish students' written works.

Awesome teacher who pushes students to achieve perfection!!He has an organized work plan and precise expectations.His enthusiasm and attitude stimulate participation.He was always helpful via email or in person, with suggestions and feedback. His aura of authority backed by superb credentials is well deserved. Truman students are lucky to have him.

I had Mr. Ortiz for Intro to Journalism, and it was a great opportunity to study under a teacher who loves the subject. He's not afraid to challenge his students, but his door is always open for help and he will do his best to make a writer of you!

He asks students that he has a rapport with to rate him to bump up his average, even students returning to his classes who have rated him before. He is an excellent teacher, and you will improve under his tutelage, but he is quick to sacrifice ethics to further his career. I'd still recommend him, but I would advise students to keep their distance.

I enjoyed Mr. Ortiz's teaching style and how it helped me absorb the material. Mr. Ortiz was very helpful and straight forward, which was crucial in helping me refine my work. Also, his extensive knowledge in many areas expanded my own knowledge of international situations. I would recommend a course taught by Mr. Ortiz.

Excellent teacher! He might strict on attendance and tough on assignments, but he WILL make you a better writer! His style of teaching is somewhat fast-paced, but it allows us students to experience a taste of real-world journalism. I enjoyed scrambling around to interview sources and meet deadlines; meeting and interviewing guest speakers/professionals; and posting journal entries on his Web. His daily quizzes keep you on your toes, but they're pretty easy, *if* you read the material and do the assignments. He's an excellent professor who will take time to meet with you 1-on-1 and respond swiftly to your e-mails. His personality brings excitement to the class.

Ortiz is one of the most undervalued professors at Truman. His class is not easy, but if you're serious about doing good work you don't want it to be. You learn a lot. And since he's published in the newspaper often he actually knows what he's talking about versus professors who fossilize and teach stuff they haven't done in years.

ENG 150 gives you an authentic experience of writing for the College Newspaper and interacting with several skilled journalists.The value of all that is learned in this class far exceeds the cost. Prof Ortiz is excellent as a dedicated teacher and practicing journalist. I should know. Ritzy California lacks such teachers per my disenchanted nephew.

Mr. Ortiz is one of the best professor at Truman. He not only taught me to think and write critically, but he helped me further my writing skills. He is truly an excellent teacher and I would recommend this class for anyone to take.

Professor Ortiz's expectations were clearly laid out and he followed a detailed syllabus. He highly encouraged critical thinking. All assignments were graded fairly and within a timely manner. He provided extra assistance both during and after office hours. He cares about his students and their success. I would choose any of his classes.

This class was extremely interesting and significantly improved my writing, reading, and research skills. Prof. Ortiz provides a detailed syllabus and plenty of time to successfully complete assignments. He provides every student with numerous opportunities to succeed and excel in his class. Prof. Ortiz is a tremendous asset to Truman College.

There is truth in all that is said here. He is available, but you leave empty handed. I gave a 3 for clarity, his syllabus is clear, his grading is not. He is very hard to please, my grades yoyoed but the work was the same. If your english isn't perfect DO NOT his class. If you can,DO NOT take his class. Feels like he wants to be in a better school

I get why people dislike this class, but you can't get any better than Ben at a community college. It's a tough class, but he is helpful and the syllabus does truly tell you what you need to know. I'm getting an A in the class and its tough but I'm learning a tremendous amount along the way. You're not buying the grade, youre buying the education.

This class is not easy by any means, you must really work for your grade. Sure its a challenge, there is alot of reading and he grills citing skills into you, but these are fundamental skills to have in writing. Overall, he is serious about his teaching, is very approachable and gives you grading guidelines to follow, just follow instructions!

Hes fair. You get what you earned. I didnt put in the work, i admit that & got a low grade. If you want an easy A, he is not for you. If you want to improve your writing & good feedback, youre making a good choice. I know if he reads this hell circle every mistake, but hey, if Im wrong, Im wrong.

Prof. Ortiz is a tough grader, but that is only relative to the quality of other teachers at Truman. He will make you work for your grade, and that is refreshing. 4 papers, maybe 5 quizzes based on readings, and that is your grade. He gives good feedback and is eager to meet with you to discuss your papers. Not an easy A, but a great teacher.

Prof. Ortiz runs a tough ENG102 class, but it's worth the effort. Stay engaged, use the textbook, and leverage resources like unstuck ai - it really helps with study prep. The workload is heavy, but you'll learn valuable writing skills.