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Don't be persuaded by all of his "passion" and "emotion" because in the end it's all about him.

Ever worked your ass off in a class? Be prepared to meet your match if you are not 100% committed to the class. He will tell you things that seem unimportant but he is often right and he knows it. A good prof, but HARD doesn't even begin to describe

Be prpared to work your ass off. But is a good class over all.

Professor Phillips is the probably the best professor at GVSU. He keeps it real all the time, and he won't b/s you at all. He's extremely helpful, and the most honest person I know. He is one of the reasons I decided to stay at Grand Valley.

Incredibly hard! You really have to work, but it's fantastic information. He's randomly funny and odd. You never know what he'll say... but he gets his point across. He also cares about the students.

He is a great teacher, very hard, you will learn alot about the world.

Professor Phillips is probably the best professor at this university. he doesn't b/s you like 75% of the stiffs here. he is honest and truthful about everything, and you will probably learn more from him than anyone.

This is the hardest class that you will talk in all your years at Grand Valley, but definatley woth it. Brian is funny, truthful, and really cares about his students and there sucess. He won`t lie to you, or mess around. He is straight to the point.

The course was tough but that's what college is all about. If it were easy, we wouldn't pay so much in tuition. I learned so much, even though he may have appeared UNSTABLE :) Barbara Streisand at 9am on a Friday!? COME ON MAN!

Brian is by far the best, most intelligent prof at GVSU. He is a bit abrasive initially, but passionate about the material. If you are from West Michigan.....Take this class! I promise you will see returns on your dollar.

Brian Phillips is the best professor I have ever had at Grand Valley! He is very intelligent and he is a great professor to have if you want to learn alot. DO NOT EXPECT to get a good grade if you do not want to work at it. LOVE THIS PROF!!!

Hard class and prof, but well worth it! Will try to scare you in beginning, but he is a great guy and does care about students. You need to be prepared to stdy hard, but it is one of the best classes and profs at GVSU!!!

Take only if you're preapared to give up your life for a semester, but worth the trade off, tests are difficult

Best class I have ever had. Take this one, but be prepared for some work. It's worth it!

I love this man

Interesting class and interesting Prof. However, the class is structured to be much more difficult than the material really is but it's a good way to prevent students from getting an A.

Very difficult class, awesome prof with REAL-LIFE experience. Will learn a lot about the structure of US society and why things are they way they are. Exams all essay, READ, answer the questions fully and study a lot. Very difficult but well worth it. Everyone at GVSU should have to take this class.

Professor Phillips is a difficult professor, you have to read all of the material and ask questions during class. However, he is very willing to discuss material outside of class and help in any way he can. He's an awesome prof. and you'll learn a lot!

the best prof i've had. it's hard, there's a lot of reading, but you learn something that matters for once. that's hard to come by. don't let this class pass you by. take it. he comes off as a hardass, but he's a great prof who actaully cares about his students.

Hard class, but also a great class. tests are hard but he is more than willing to help students. He actually cares about them and wants you to learn the material. Be ready to dedicate a lot of time but it is well worth it.

Phillips likes to scare students. The class was not that hard you just have to read a lot, which at times is interesting and at times boring as hell. He also never really answers questions which is not that uncomon with SOC profs.

The people that say Prop Phillips is too hard need to grow up, this is not high school. I took his class and it was one of the hardest I have taken, yet I remember it as the best class I have taken, the info was interesting and the lectures were great. my advise for those who say not to take him need to realize college is supposed to be hard

Don't let him scare you! He does it to weed out those who don't want to work. Gives exam questions in advance. lots of reading. but not an easy a. always willing to help. group project a breeze. don't take with other hard classes.

Brian is one of the best teachers I've had so far at Grand Valley.He brings himself into situations because it makes the class real.If you do the readings and listen in lecture, you'll do fine on the tests.College isn't supposed to be easy peple!Brian just wants everyone to learn as much as possible.And that is awesome! TAKE THIS PROF.!

This guy is as good as they get. He is real, down to earth, energetic, and funny. He is willing to work with students, and cover issues until they are understood. He expects the maximum potential of every student to be reached. He "educates" you for the "real" world. No B.S.

Brian is a wonderful, understanding, awesome, passionate prof! He really wants you to pass; he cares about his work so you will too! Tests are a challenge, just read and write out the answers to the exam questions he gives you in advance. Read, participate, and you will do fine!

God forbid we have to read:) He comes on a little strong but its just to entertain us and to weed out the lazy ones. I wouldnt take him when you have other hard classes or major time constraints because you will do poorly or atleast not stellar. If you can you should take him atleast once. I think he's a good prof and honestly has good intentions.

Brian is a great prof. The class is hard but if you read and do the work you should do fine. He gives out the exam questions before hand so look them over. He is probably one of the best professors i have had.

Brian is one of the best and hardest profs. i have ever had. He challenges his students to examine the world around them on a personal basis. He teaches ideas not just facts.

THE BAD: If he has a special liking for you, you'll love him. Otherwise, he can be a real ****. He's VERY moody, and you can lose his favor easily. THE GOOD: Unlike most GVSU profs, he packs alot of info into the class. if you like fluff classes, don't take him. If you are sick of fluff classes, take him.

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While Prof. Phillips is hard, he is a good professor, you will learn a lot in his class. If you are here to learn, take Prof. Phillips, if you don't care about learning, find a new school.

He's a great prof! People who think he's hard are right, but I think it's OK to be challenged and work hard once in a while. He likes to be tough- he's from NY. He looks at the world as the BS that it is, not a pretty picture. People need to quit being so offended and toughen up...

not sure what to think of him, acts like a jerk but then can be very nice. definitely will learn a lot, READ THE BOOKS or you are 110% guaranteed to fail. interesting lectures, if anything...quite a professor.

Easily the most passionate professor I've ever had. He is entertaining and obviously he has found the right job. He doesn't give A's much, so you have to work hard for your grade. Also, he's a smart man, but you'll notice he gets completely messed up if you interrupt him or if anything interrupts his train of thought. Great prof. though.

Brian made my GVSU experience an awesome one. Yes, he does actually make you work, but your in college get over it! He will be a professor that you will remember for the rest of your life. If it were not for him I would not be where I am today. He is always willing to help. I have nothing but respect for this professor. Very entertaining class.

Be ready to work hard...but its worth it for how much you learn and walk away from this class with!! Phillips is an amazing professor who while at times can be very demanding, truly cares for his students and wants them to succeed. His real life experiences and passions for the subject matter are incredibly valuable to this course!

All of the people complaining about phillips need to get a life. This is college not high school. That means you actually have to do homework and it might well be hard. Some people are not smart enough to do well and that is fine. However, whinning because the real world has hit you is puerile.

If you want to get an A in this class, don't take him if you're dumb. Don't take him if you dont' like to read. Dont' take him if you dont' have a good memory. If you do take him and you are dumb, don't like to read, or don't have a good memory, you won't do well. It will be a miserable stuggle of a semester in this class for you, and you will beco

Best class of my life. I would definitely recommend his class!

Brian is teaching in Germany at our university at the moment. I think he is really brilliant. He is the only professor that actually makes us come out of the lesson and keep talking about it for another 30 minutes. All students enjoy every minute and could listen to him for another hour. We will miss him so much!!!

Phillips is a great professor. For everyone that says it is impossible to get an A, they are wrong. I got an A- and I took this class my second year of college. Don't be too intimidated, you will learn a lot of valuable information from this class and I highly suggest giving it a try!

He is difficult but you will learn a lot from him if you go to class and listen. You must keep up with his reading and assignments to do well.

If you aren't able to keep up with readings, do not take him. His tests are absolutely impossible if you don't do all the readings. Having said that, he has a very interesting perspective on American society and he does everything he can to get the sheltered Grand Valley kids to open their eyes. Very interesting professor, but a lot of work.

He is a FANTASTIC professor, he is the best prof. I've ever had. His class is very difficult, but worth it. I wish that I had found him before I took the only other class he teaches! Very easy to talk to, and listens to everyones opinion even if he doesn't agree. There is NEVER a dull moment, so it's not a class you can sleep through, or skip.

Enjoyable teacher, but a lot of reading and memorization. Hard if your a Freshman, especially first semester. Attendance is mandatory, although I always wanted to go. Grades only based on 3 difficult tests. Easy, if you are good at reading and memorizing. Overall enjoyable if you are up for the work.

One of the most, no- THE MOST difficult class i've ever taken. The best class i've ever had, too. I like an easy A as much as the next student, but this class will change the way you look at things, and Phillips gives you an amazing opportunity you won't regret.

Prof.Phillips was amazing!!! The hardest class I have ever taken, but the best. Always interesting to listen to. Makes you look at the world totally different and you will appreciate it. Laughed a lot this last semester. 3 hard essays but fair grader.

please note that profs can submit a favorable comment of their own about themself--at least that is what read about the internet. Only one person I talked to liked him so I don't know why there are so many positive comments.It's interesting that he skipped "Gender Inequality" chapters in both books.

His classes are a challenge, you have to be able to learn from the book, since he doesn't simply repeat the textbook to you like so many other profs. He's fun to listen to and he'll try to scare you on the first day (don't let him).

Very entertaining and funny. He seems like a hard ass but isn't. I made the mistake of taking this class during my first semester of my freshman year. Class was hard. Exams were harder!

I took 3 classes with Brian and would highly recommend him. Pre-Madonna?s beware this class is no joke. Hard reading and testing, but what you take away from the class will stay with you forever. Take it from me a 07 grad. Out of all my classes I still think of this one the most. Bottom line is he teaches life? it?s not an easy lesson to learn

Brian is the best professor ive had out at Grand Valley. His intelligence and passion for sociology never comes across as belittling and he is more then willing to go back and clarify. He really wants his students to feel the importance of what he teaches and that helps a lot when it comes to studying his lectures and the books before exams.

Great Professor!- The grade for the class is based on 3 exams- so that can be difficult. The class is challenging but very worthwhile if you're up for the challenge. Is very helpful during office hours. He's pretty hilarious, too. The class is not boring at all. If you have the chance to take a class with him, take it.

Hated him this first day of class but loved him by the last. Hard class but DO THE READING and ANSWER THE QUESTIONS he gives you and it is not impossible by any means. Comes off as intimidating but loves when people aren't afraid to joke around with him. I respect Brian and will never forget anything he taught us. Really gets the point across!

Phillips tries to scare away the weak students at the beginning of the semester, but don't be fooled he is a funny and nice guy. This class is very difficult and I don't recommend taking it if you don't have to. Otherwise, really keep up with the readings and do study sessions. Exams are hard and grade is based off of three exams.

One of the first lines out of his mouth is "don't f@*# with me or I will ruin you". Attendance is required and missing classes is extremely bad due to amount of subject matter that is gone over in each class period. If you have an open mind and take everything seriously you might do okay.Exams are extremely hard so if you do bad on exams stay clear

Very hard class, lots of reading. If you don't like to work for your grades, do not take this class. If you want to learn and actually put your college tuition to good use, this class is the way to go. You will actually feel rewarded for passing this class.

Great teacher. He pushes you to learn as much as you can. Seems like a jerk at first but if you stick it out it is obvious that he is really passionate about the subject he teaches. He makes class very interesting and is a fair grader.It is hard but not impossible to get a good grade. If you want a different perspective on the world take his class.

Talks about himself A LOT. There is a lot of reading to do and they aren't talked about in class. There are lecture notes--and there is the reading. All of the reading is relevant and all of it needs to be read to do his exams. They're hard but doable. He's rough in the beginning, a lot of threats, but he gets softer--don't drop because of that.

Talks about himself A LOT. There is a lot of reading to do and they aren't talked about in class. There are lecture notes--and there is the reading. All of the reading is relevant and all of it needs to be read to do his exams. They're hard but doable. He's rough in the beginning, a lot of threats, but he gets softer--don't drop because of that.

Professor knows the material. Tends to use own experience as examples, which aids in understanding terms. Although he has a rough past, he has pushed through to help younger generations, which is very admirable.

Good class, I learned quite a bit. As long as you do the readings and understand the questions, you'll do fine on the exams. He's quite the character...

Brian is an amazing professor. He is the type you love or hate however. Give him the benefit of the doubt and stay at least 2 weeks. READ READ READ the book and do the chapter questions, if you know the answers then you are set for the exam!

I only took this for my theme requirement and was not interested at first, but it turned out to be my favorite class. Yes, it was really hard, but I got an A- so it's not impossible! Brian's caring and helpful outside of the classroom. Highly recommended!

Amazing! He is hilarious and keeps your attention from the get go! I definitely suggest you start a study group immediately and take massive amounts of notes, possibly even get notes from other students who have already taken the class. The more you know from the notes the better you will do on the exams. Its the best earned B+ I have ever got!

I love Brian, he has been my favorite professor since my sophomore year. Show up, do the reading and pay attention and you will be fine. He tries to scare off the weaker students on the first day because he can't stand lazy idiots. If you are not one of those, you will love him! Plus he's kinda nice to look at :^)

Yes, this class is "hard" but it's because Brian makes you learn. There is a LOT of reading, so be ready for that. But he is an awesome lecturer, he makes sociology so interesting!! and he very helpful - if you are actually trying. So be prepared to work hard! If you do, you will love this class. Not an easy A, you will actually learn.

Brian is fantastic. He's scary the first day but then he warms up. He's very very intelligent and uses many personal experiences to clarify his point. I could easily tell he enjoys what he does. The class is very difficult and heavy on reading but you actually learn.

He is a very good lecturer, very interesting and lively, never boring. There does seem to be some distance between the readings and the lectures, which frequently are unrelated, and the readings are not discussed. The book is also very outdated. His way of lecturing is very different from what most would be used to, but it's very effective.

Like everyone else said he comes off mean at the start of the class but he softens up. He's very sarcastic and he likes to swear. He's hilarious. He uses personal experiences to help you understand lectures which is really interesting. His exams are extremely difficult and you have to do all the reading. Don't procrastinate on the readings.

He's probably one of my favorite professors. If you can't tolerate crude humor or someone that makes fun of West Michigan, don't take him. But his class is based off of about 3 tests that are very specific. Essay format. If you put in the work, you'll do fine.

Dude is awesome, keeps your attention, and is overall awesome. His class is hard but definitely worth it to take. One of my favorite classes and professors.

He is a good teacher of social class inequality. If you are one of those sensitive types, do not like to read and think, or watch Fox News, then take something else to fulfill your requirements. This class is not about peaches and unicorns, but about real life. If you want fairy tales then go take a creative writing course you wuss!

Hands down the best professor I have ever had. Great lecturer, although he seems mean the first day, he gets nicer. He cares about all his students and wants to see them succeed. If you have a chance to take any of his classes I highly recommend it.

Brian is one of the best prof's I've taken at GV. He actually makes you think and doesn't just let you glide by. Textbook readings are tough but necessary to pass the exams. If you can't handle people making jokes towards you--don't take him, otherwise he's awesome!

Amazing professor. He makes the material very interesting and his lectures are interesting and easy to pay attention to. His tests are quite hard but as long as you do the readings you'll be okay.

This guy is great. He was born to teach social problems! Dont expect to pass if you miss more than 3-4 classes. The only grades you will get are from the tests and they are pretty hard if you haven't studied. Just keep up with the reading and memorize the class notes and your fine!

A very hard class don't expect a great grade but it is very worth it. This class provides an eye opening perspective on social inequality and how it is created. The book is a tough read but a treasure trove of information. Phillips is a good guy, comes off a little strong but he does want whats best for his students.

Very tough teacher but completely worth it. He really opens your eyes to the world we are about to enter. Grade is based off of three exams, and they are tough but if you read and don't miss class you will be fine. He curves to help those who don't do so well. As long as you are productive and don't slack off on the readings you will be fine.

His class is definitely difficult since it's based only on 3 exams and hey are pretty hard if you don't study very well. Do all the readings and study all the class notes. However, I absolutely love him. He keeps your attention and is passionate about what he teaches.

Professor Brian is a fantastic teacher! He comes across quite harsh the first day, but if you actually talk with him, he's great. You definitely have to do the readings to pass the class, but he's willing to help any student who is struggling or just wants more information about something. He is quite liberal, but does respect differing opinions.

Professor phillips comes off strong, especially on the first day of class. But if you like sarcasm at its finest, you will like him a lot. His class is hard, but he makes sure that the entire class knows what is required to do well. He is also willing to help those who struggle. Take him seriously when it comes to the material and you'll be ok.

Dr. Philips starts pretty intimidating, but eases up over the course of the class. Takes good notes in class and on the book. Make sure to understand the material forwards, backwards, upside down, and inside out. You will be graded on your critical understanding of the material. I may not have done well, but I do not regret taking it.

The professor starts as intimidating, but he is being serious. You need to be present, you need to understand the material and not merely summarize it, and you need to study. His lectures are fun and interesting. Study groups are recommended. Reading your notes and course material often is also recommended.

The professor starts as intimidating, but he is being serious. You need to be present, you need to understand the material and not merely summarize it, and you need to study. His lectures are fun and interesting. Study groups are recommended. Reading your notes and course material often is also recommended. MAKE SURE TO READ THE BOOK!

Prof. Phillips comes off as tough at first but really as long as you take notes and do the readings you'll be fine.

Seems bad at first, but he knows what he's doing. Just pay attention and you'll do fine.

Good teacher.

He's great

Good.

Best professor at gvsu!

Come to class, do the readings!

Phillips is one of my favorite professors

Class is directed very well.

He's cool. Don't be put off by the first week. Keep up with the readings.

Very knowledgeable on topics, humorous and a professor you will want to take in the future!

Keep up with the readings and study for exams and you will be fine!

Good professor. A little tough though

Not the easiest, but willing to work with you if you want to learn. One the best and most engaging professors I've ever had

Don't let him scare you.

Hard class, but worth it if you do the readings and participate in class. Comes off as a tough guy, but has the heart of a baby kitten.

Awesome

Hot tamale he is hot!

Very interesting. I learned a great deal in his class. Hes tough, but you get out of it what you put in.

Comes on strong at first. But is a great teacher and definitely knows his material! Very funny too! But the readings are a must! You will quickly know that after you see your first tests grade. Overall, I would recommend him forsure!

Brian Phillips is so awesome

If you don't do the readings you will fail, but if you keep up with the work and pay attention in class you can do totally fine. Don't drop out after the first week because he will try to weed out the people who don't try. Honestly though he teaches you so much and really does care about his students. I'd take him again.

At first he seems tough, but he really just likes to joke a lot during lecture. His tests are fair, you have to read the book and study in order to get a good grade. Most of the content is interesting, even if you're major is not related to the class. I would take another class with this professor if I had room in my schedule.

Professor Phillips is one of the most amazing teachers that I've ever had. Don't let his syllabus or first week of threats scare you!! He is very understanding and hilarious! He tells a lot of personal stories and really relates to his students. He truly cares about his students. The majority of test material is from class lectures so DON'T MISS!!

The note-taking consists of him literally spending most or all of the class period telling us exactly what to write. It gets old, is strenuous and makes it difficult to pay attention to what he is actually teaching because we are worried about getting it all down.

Awesome guy, hella hard class. Read EVERYTHING and take notes like your life depends on it, the exams are the insanely difficult.

A brilliant, unconventional professor whose lectures and stories are always interesting AF. He makes you question a lot of things and introduces new perspectives. It's one of those classes you look forward to. ATTEND CLASS! TAKE NOTES! READ!!!!! It requires some work but you will thank yourself for taking his class.

Make it through the first day: trust me. Phenomenal guy, absolute genius, and amazing to listen to. Loved every moment in class. However, MAKE SURE YOU DO NOT MISS A LECTURE OR READING. His exams are completely fair, but hard as all get out. If you're in his class, you WANT FOUR EXAMS. That's all you get. Remember that on the first day.

Prof Brian is intimidating and harsh on the first day. Don't let him fool you he's probably one of the best professors ever. But be ready to read and work hard for that grade! Material is boring but he makes it very interesting once he gets to storytelling. A lot of notes though! Cool guy. Take him if you're ready to work a lot.

He is super intimidating the first week or two, but he does get better! One of the funniest teachers I've ever had. Class is extremely difficult, grade is based on 3 exams alone. MUST study before exams or you will not pass, but does curve every exam. You need to put some serious work into this class.

Professor Phillips seems to have a pretty high opinion of himself, which sometimes makes class awkward. He is pretty funny but sometimes a little much. He is knowledgeable about the law and makes class fun with his examples. He reads off of notes, not sure if he wrote them or got them somewhere. I might take again. Not quite sure yet.

He basically makes you hate him the first week of class, but you will love him later on. He is extremely smart, can be super funny, his lectures are really interesting to sit through and has great stories. Show up, don't be late, turn off your phone, he makes you read everything & his exams are really hard but he curves. You'll love this class tho.

After the first day of class you're going to try and drop because he acts super scary on purpose. Don't drop. He just acts that way so people will drop his class so he won't have so many students lol. After you stay, this prof is funny as hell! his lectures are amazing!! However, a ton of work!! and tests are really hard and SO MUCH memorizing.

Prof. Phillips is probably one of the best instructors I've ever had. He's gonna come off as a hard ass at first but he genuinely cares about his students. He's very knowledgeable and passionate about what he teaches. The people who rate him badly are just sensitive because he is a little unconventional. Excellent prof, though. Would recommend.

The first day he comes off really hard but you will eventually get to love him. He makes class interesting and i genuinely enjoyed going. You MUST do the readings if you want to do well. I learned this the hard way. Although he does give you a good amount of time to complete them. Your grade is based only on the exams. Would take him again.

Professor Phillips is awesome. I don't know why everything thinks his class is so hard. Just do the readings, take good notes in class (very easy to do as he tells you exactly what to write down), and for God's sake enjoy the class! He takes such a boring topic and makes it extremely interesting. If i needed to, i would 100% take him again.

I've taken him for all three courses he offers. He's tough but fair; you HAVE to do the work to get the grade. The only people who I have ever heard complain about this course are the ones who refuse to study.

Very tough grader, really makes you work for it. He's a great person though, very enjoyable.

Don't let this pretentious man get to you. This class is easy if you just take notes on the reading. He is a very intelligent and very organized man, so his lectures are easy to follow. All tests are short answer and he will cut your grade if you miss too many classes.

He is firm on his rules (no phones, show up to class, do the readings) but they are fair expectations. His lectures are great. He takes difficult subjects and makes them much easier to understand. If you do the readings and study for the exams ( you can't wait last minute for either) you'll learn a lot and enjoy yourself in the process.

Prof Brian has questionable sanity, but in a good way. If he notices the class is bored he'll do something to lighten the mood and wake people up. If you want an easy A this class is not for you. If you want to have one of the best professors at GV choose him. Just don't fall behind on reading, it's one chapter a week, not that bad, you'll do fine.

Brian is by far one of my favorite professors at GV. Lectures are entertaining and easy to follow along, however, there is a lot of reading you have to do. Your grade is based off of the 3 exams you have to take. It's definitely a class you cannot slack on, but very doable if you put in the effort.

The first day of class will make you want to drop but DONT! He gets better throughout the semester with his interesting lectures, personal stories, and funny personality. Don't skip class, take notes and do the readings to pass the class!!! I would recommend a tutor because there are only 3 exams and he is a specific grader.

This class is tough, but if you put in the work then you will do fine. You have to write down all the notes and do the readings or you will not pass. Brian makes the lectures interesting by telling stories about his life which helps you remember certain topics. He is very fair with extra credit if you follow his 3 rules. Overall, Brian is great.

To pass his class you need to come to class and do the work and readings. It is tough, but worth if if you are willing to put in the time. He has great lectures but exams are hard. He is an overall good guy and good professor even though he acts tough. I always look forward to his class and what life story he will share with us that day.

Brian has a good heart. After trying to figure him out the whole semester you'll realize he acts the way he does because of his childhood. His stories about his past are amusing but very much true so just think of that first before assuming the worst about him. He's been through the worst and still made it to the top. Quite a respectable man.

Brian is by far the best professor I have ever had, and will EVER have. His class is rigorous, however you are in college, what do you expect? An A or even a B will NOT be handed to you, so do not think you are entitled to a high grade. He is very passionate about teaching and he truly does care for his students. Just do your work & you will pass.

Very inspirational, one of my favorite instructors I've ever had. his lectures were companioned and he made the material matter to you and your life. lots of reading but thats what you sign up for. I also enjoyed looking at the different socks he wore (my favorites were the pool balls). don't drop after the first day, you will regret it

Professor Phillips is great, one of the best I've ever had. Very lecture heavy and you do have to do the readings in order to keep up but the lectures are always interesting and interactive. Don't drop after the first couple of days.

Brian is a real good guy. He is very strict and a bit intimidating at first but its just to weed kids out of class and get his rules across. Do the damn readings and you will thrive. Lectures are loaded with info but they are fun if you interact with him.

Brian Phillips is a great professor. In the beginning he acts really tough, but he's actually a sweet guy. Very strict about phones. You'll really need to know all of the information he provides plus the reading material. He really believes students should earn their grade, so he'll make you work for it. Honestly helped me a lot with my work ethic.

My favorite Professor I've ever had! He was very intimidating in the first week of class, but that is simply his humor. Truly enjoyed his lectures and learned so much in his class!

Hes a great professor and can seem to be ver intimidating at first but he really cares about you all and your grade. Dont sit in the back and talk a lot, he likes that. Make sure you read, take good notes on lectures and youll be good.

Amazing and hilarious man. Allowed a group final! Read the texts, go to class, and you'll do fine.

At first, Brian seemed a little intimidating, but over the semester he opens up more and you see why he acts the way he does. The only grades you have in the class are 3 tests, but they aren't too bad if you study, plus he curves them. Brian has more character than most of the professors I've had at GVSU so far. I enjoyed the class.

The best professor. He's so funny and caring and if you're having difficulties in his class or outside of class, he will talk to you because that's how supportive he is. He's like a friend for the most part. He talks very fast so you have to write fast. I definitely suggest his class.

I loved his lectures... but the exams were all free response & the questions were specific about the 3 different books you must read. He is a great professor and if you are better at studying than I suggest taking him because of his lectures! He does curve the exams which help.

He is my favorite professor at GVSU. He really knows his stuff and shares personal experience to connect with the topics.

By far my favorite and most difficult professor. I am a Junior soc major and I have learned the most in his class. If you engage and pay attention during lecture, read the book and do the work, you'll be fine. He comes off as tough and intimidating, but he genuinely cares about his students and what they learn. Be ready to work for your grade.

Brian is awesome! I enjoyed his class because of his teaching style, his energy, his little motivational speeches, his rants, and his sense of humor. You're only graded on three exams, a paper, and a presentation based on your paper. So just show up to class (on time), do the readings, and be respectful and you should be fine in this class!

If you slack off and expect to get good grades, do not take this professor. Comes off as intimidating, but I can promise you he's way nicer at office hours and genuinely cares about his students. Your grade is entirely dependent on three exams, which covers all of the reading. Get ready to study a lot.

Brian is an outstanding professor. He attempts to intimidate students at first, but if you stand up to him, you will quickly gain his respect. He is the most engaging lecturer I have ever witnessed. Do 100% of the readings and take good notes and you can earn an A in the class. Anything less and he will make you pay for it.

Brian Phillips was one of my favorite professors this semester. He is very intimidating on the first day but dont let him scare you away. The way he teaches is extremely entertaining and makes you pay attention. Your grade in the class is based off 2 tests and the final. I highly recommend taking him for this class

Brian is amazing! If you just do the work he will like you and work with you. He can be ornery but he really does care and will go out of his way for students who show him they want to learn. The total grade is one 7-page partner paper and three essay exams. The readings and lecture will all be on the exam so don't skip chapters!

He is a prof that is so excited/engaged to share stories and lectures. We must be independent with our studies and get our reading/notes done. He is intimidating the first few classes but when you get to know him he is so funny, nice, and caring. He curves tests and is always willing to meet for help. If you read & do your notes, you will succeed.

I was very intimidated by him, but after a few classes, I loved having him as a professor. He was excited to connect with us students and was always willing to help. If you put yourself out there to him, he will remember you. He was an amazing professor, although, he came off as mean at first. Definitely recommend taking him but you have to do work

he is genuinely one of the best professors i've had in my life. he always explains concepts if you don't understand him the first time. just do the readings and don't skip class and you'll be fine.

Brian is scary at first (I came late the first day and he nearly made me cry), but he gets better as the semester progresses. He only grades three tests but he always curves them by a ton of points, and the best thing to do when he's rude is dish it back, because he respects students with backbone. (Kinda)

Ive taken Professor Philips twice and I really enjoy his classes. I think some students may mistake his New Yorker personality and style of humor but hes actually a really nice guy. Ive never had any problems or felt like any lines were crossed. Hes really funny but also has respect for his students and expects equal respect from us.

Amazing lecturer. So funny, helps out. Going to office hours is a good idea.

This is a hard class, plain and simple. However, Brian's lectures are full of life lessons and important information about the world system, not to mention he is quite funny. He may come off as abrasive on the first day, but don't let this phase you. Taking this class gave me great perspective and made me a better student. Be sure to read/notetake.

You are probably taking social problems as a gen-ed requirement. That being said, don't underestimate the difficulty of the class. He may seem abrasive at first, but this is just to weed out those who aren't fit for his style of lecturing. If you read and take notes on the readings and lectures, you will be just fine and you might learn something.

Criminology with Brian is a great course. He is rough around the edges, but don't let this phase you. He is a great lecturer as he will surely grab your attention with his abrasive and humorous style. Reading/note-taking is a must in his classes as his exams often require near word-for-word responses.

Brian is complex. I have taken all three of his classes. He may seem harsh on the first day of class. He won't tell you this, but it is mostly a facade. He is a great speaker and lecturer, as the lectures are quite informative, humorous, and at times, inspirational (in my opinion). If you want to pass, you must read. Brian sparked my love for SOC.

Brian comes off very tough at first but he really does care about his students. He likes to joke around and use sarcasm a lot so some students may not like that. However, he truly is a wonderful professor and a wonderful man!

I loved this professor!! Some may think the class is hard, but he is very reasonable and he works with you very well too. He's very direct, but he's funny as well. He shares many stories that make the class easier to understand and more interested. I would highly recommend him!!

He's very entertaining and his lectures are interesting. It's easy to follow his notes & what's expected of you is very clear. Attendance is mandatory, and your grade is based on 3 exams, but he is reasonable. The only part I didn't love is that we had to read a lot, and like ACTUALLY read / know it for exams. Take him still.

Professor Phillips is hands down one of my favorite professors, and he is very passionate about what he teaches. He seems strict at first, but he honestly is a sweet person. The exams may seem intimidating, but as long as you have good notes, do the readings, and study ahead of time, you will do great!! One tip: do not procrastinate!

I love Professor Phillips! He may seem strict, but he is not. My class was great, and we all respected him, so things went smoothly this semester. He is hilarious and very sarcastic, and some people may not understand his humor which can lead to people thinking he is mean. He is very motivational and is extremely passionate about what he teaches :)

This was actually one of my few classes that I've enjoyed going to! There are only 3 exams that go towards your grade so I really struggled to do all the readings and study for exams. Also he can come across really strong but is really understanding and wants to help you

Brian Phillips is a mf G. Best professor I've had so far. Not an easy A class, he will make you work for a grade, but he really cares and will help students a lot. Very open to discussion and listening to students. Showing up to class is vital to pass this class. This man is a gem.

Brian (he told us to call him that) was such a great professor. His class was hard, don't get me wrong but it was great. He does rely heavily on lectures and you just have to take notes as he goes. But he's a really funny guy and if you try, he will give you respect. Absolutely one of my favorite professors.

1000% take his classes. He is by far my favorite prof ever. He is so funny and the class just gets easier as it goes on. He lets you use notecards on the exams and you will pass the class easy if you attend lecture. He might seem scary on the first day, but he is absolutely amazing. HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!

He's an interesting character. Comes off as abrasive on the first day but it's all an act. Entire grade is based on 3 exams and a paper/presentation with a partner. You need to do the readings to pass the exams so do not procrastinate on them (they're long) or you'll regret it. Exams cover the readings and lectures so make sure you take notes!

Brian is an amazing and funny guy. He may seem intimidating at first but as the semester goes on you'll see how interesting and caring he actually is. You are graded on 3 tests which can be kinda hard but he lets you use a notecard and always curved the test a ton! Make sure you study all material and take notes!!!

Brian Phillips is by far the best Professor at GVSU! The class is graded on 3 exams and one forced extra credit. as long as you do the readings you will be fine.

Loved this prof! Super funny and keeps lectures entertaining. Final grade is based on three exams and a forced extra credit assignment, as long as you do the readings you will be fine.

He does come off as very strong and slightly intimidating, especially on the first day. This can be scary but please know he's a really good guy! He gives very clear study guides and as long as you follow along accordingly with the readings, go to lectures, and participate in the conversations, he will MAKE SURE you do well in his class. Loved him!

Super goofy and charmingly eccentric guy. Classtime is extremely laid back and feels less like a class and more like a discussion. The class dynamic is extremely chummy with a good deal of running jokes and stories. Not the most professional environment, but I guess that's better than having a dull, listless professor. Just don't sit in the back...

Only 3 grades were exams. Expected a lot of reading but none was ever due and it was all meant to study for the exams. Lectures were entertaining, fun and funny guy but will get serious sometimes. Recommend not only taking Criminology in SOC, but with Brian.

Brian Phillips is genuinely the heart of Grand Valley. He brings a homey feel to the classroom, and is able to put up with jokes made by the students. He's a easy grader if you participate during the lecture. Don't skip, he has so much good information for you!!!

Professor Phillips is very funny and entertaining. His class is hard but it is a good class. There is only three exams and one group presentation during the semester. It is a lot of reading but if you do them, you will do just fine.

He may seem intimidating at first, but he is a very nice and understandable professor. He doesn't like to be taken advantage of, but he loves class participation and is willing to work with you and curve the tests if he feels your class deserves it. If you don't read, you won't pass the tests! Going to his office hours will help you a lot.

He is an amazing professor, He brings a nice warm feeling to the classroom and is beyond understanding when it comes to personal struggles. He is very open and helpful, and is always there for you when you have any questions or concerns. The exams were fair everytime, you just have to pay attention to the lectures, and make sure you are reading.

Such an awesome dude, classwork is somewhat hard and lengthy. He curves exams if he likes the class and once your used to him he's a very cool dude. The lectures can be super interesting or somewhat boring but its never monotone. Worth taking for sociology 100% learned a lot.

He is by far the best teacher I have ever had. His class is SO HARD, but he curves his exams & tries to give opportunities for more points in class. He has so much knowledge & is HILARIOUS. I never had a boring time in his class. If you love criminology, get him as a professor dude. He is incredible.

Professor Phillips is the funniest and most engaging teacher I have had EVER. Lectures are important to go to as well as reading and taking notes on every reading in order to pass the three exams. The exams are the only thing he grades on but he curves the crap out of all the tests. It is not an easy A so if you're looking for that don't take.

Professor Phillips brings a fun, engaging vibe to the classroom. While the workload is not easy, his willingness to curve exams and provide opportunities for extra credit makes the course manageable. Using unstuckstudy AI alongside the textbook and attending lectures is key to success.

One of the best professors, he is the sweetest guy. Tests are hard but there is work you can do to get a good grade.

This is the first time I've taken a class with Brian and although he appears to be a little strict and mean, he's not. He genuinely cares about his students. The exams are really hard but he's very willing to help you with your grade.

Amazing professor- at first he gives off a very strict "you're going to fail" type of vibe- but once you get to know him he is an amazing professor. He really cares about his students and if you have any questions go to his office hours, he's super helpful. As long as you attend class and take notes and read the textbook you will do great!

He seems tough, but he genuinely is really nice. He only has 3 grades in the class which are exams, which is hard to recover from. The exams are pretty hard so if you aren't a good test taker maybe don't take this class because you won't get grades for anything else.

Brian is an eccentric and passionate professor. As long as you work with him, he's willing to work with you. You're only graded on three exams and one project, which makes for a rough class if you don't test well. There are a lot of readings! Lectures are not based on the readings, so don't miss too many. You get 3 free absences, use them wisely.

This will be my 3rd class that I have taken with Brian. I cannot recommend him enough. Funny lectures, engage with students, care about your well-being. Seems tough in the beginning but it is all an act. 3 grades and one project, so his classes are for tests takers

Brian's a funny guy to say the least. Get ready to write 1-2 pages of notes every class, and yes he expects you to write EVERYTHING down. He makes lectures very interesting though, I will give him that. I did not have a hard time in this class but I can see how you can fall behind very easily.

The most engaging professor I have ever had. If the class is for a gen ed, you will still find yourself heavily engaged in his lectures. I found myself actually wanting to come to class to learn. He likes to have fun with his students and gives very clear examples of what he is talking about. I would 100% take him again.

He is seriously a great professor. He acts all scary in the beginning. His lectures are very engaging and you will remember the stories told. I have had him twice now. I really like his style and he does not beat around the bush. His exams are hard so studying is a must. He will negotiate if the class participates consistently. I highly recommend!!

Seems intimidating at first, but it's mostly an act. Attendance is mandatory, missing/being late more than three times will affect your final grade. There are only three exams and they are challenging, if you read the textbook and take good notes, you will do well. He cares and tries to make lectures interesting. If you don't study you will fail.

Many people say this class is very hard, but I found it more manageable than expected. There is a heavy reading load, and you need to study consistently for the exams. It is not an easy A, but the class is worthwhile. The professor may seem intimidating at first, but he is supportive and genuinely cares about students.