3.1

Carmen Rodriguez

Biology - Virginia Commonwealth University

3.1
Quality
4.4
Difficulty
39%
Would Retake
112
Reviews
3.1
Quality
4.4
Difficulty
2.9
Helpful
3.2
Clarity

39%

Would Retake

112

Reviews

Rating Distribution
Official

5

32

4

20

3

19

2

20

1

21

What Students Say

She was absolutely hilarious, but extremely tough

BIO205 - 3.0 rating

She is the best lab professor for anatomy

BIOL205 - 2.0 rating
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

97%

Textbook Required

100%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

B

95% confidence
Based on 28 grades
Most common grades:
B (9)
Drop/Withdrawal (5)
A (4)
Grade Distribution
A(5)B(11)C(1)D(7)F(2)A-/B+(7)
Based on 34 reported grades
B: 9
Drop/Withdrawal: 5
A: 4
B+: 4
Common Tags
Skip class? You won't pass. (12)
Tough Grader (8)
Get ready to read (8)
TEST HEAVY (7)
Tough grader (6)
Clear grading criteria (5)
Participation matters (5)
Tests are tough (3)
Rating Trend

Declining

-0.23 avg change
Feb
Mar
Apr
Dec
Jan
Dec
Last 6 months
Ratings by Course

BIO391

5.0

(1)

BIOL391

5.0

(1)

BIOL524

5.0

(1)

BIOL101

3.6

(5)

BIO205

3.4

(39)
+5 more courses
Difficulty by Course

ANAT205

5.0

BIOL391

5.0

BIOL314

4.6

BIO101

4.5

BIO205

4.4

Reviews (112)
2.0
4.0
BIO101
Oct 9, 2007

She talks very fast and you can not keep up with the notes. Basically the whole class is just out of control. She is not afraid to call you out if you come in late.

3.0
4.0
BIOBIO
Dec 11, 2007

Do you like studying? A lot? a lot a lot a lot? If yes, take this class. But if you hate studying, and you hate biology, try to avoid this class. I love you.

3.0
4.0
BIO101
Dec 12, 2007

She uses CPS for daily participation points and quizzes, so attendance is mandatory. All weekly quizzes are pop quizzes, so you definitely need to keep up with the material. I felt like there was a lack of respect b/t teacher and students. She is a bit unclear and unaccomodating. IIf you like bio, ok. not sure? maybe pick another profess

4.0
4.0
BIO101
Dec 22, 2007

Earning a grade is no walk in the park for Professor Rodriguez. Honestly, I would take her again. There are pop quizzes, however, she took the questions directly from the end of chapter questions and lecture. There were 4 exams, the final takes place of one exam. She used CPS daily. Has office hours and takes appointments. Study and you'll do great

3.0
5.0
BIO101
Apr 16, 2008

Dr. Rodriguez is very difficult.If you are person who don't go to class this is not for you.She packs the exams and classes are like dictation with no time to take in the information.I would stay away.

3.0
5.0
BIOL205
Apr 30, 2008

I must say that Anatomy is not an easy course. it is one of the hardest courses at VCU. But can become doable if you put time into studying. You need to read from the book! Some of her questions are straightly dictated from the text.Detailed somewhat. Don't bother taking notes. HIGHLIGHT your entire book! She loves types of tissues and cells.

2.0
5.0
BIO101
May 1, 2008

she has no respect for students and assumes that everyone is good at/majoring in BIO even in 101. i would never take her again. she calls out people for coming late, does not curve(even with majority Fs) and changes the grading policy through the sem. to fit herself. she does not follow through with "help on grades". i literally cried. it is awful.

3.0
3.0
BIO205
May 10, 2008

just like other ppl hav said, Anatomy itself is so hard.Read chpters b4 going 2 class.then take note in class.U will have 100 pts extra credit Quizes, most these Qs from the Chapter end Questions, READ them. She Post her powerpoint got B+. She explains very well, NO time 4 talking in class, NOT ALLOWED, otherwise, butt will be kicked. good luck

1.0
5.0
BIO205
Jun 14, 2008

This teacher is a joke. she shows no respect for students who are not BIO majors. The class SUPER hard, but she makes no effort to try and help even if you ask for it.

3.0
3.0
BIO101
Aug 16, 2008

Literally walk into class WITH YOUR CPS IN YOUR HAND EVERYDAY!!! The exams focuses more on the topics that she spend time talking about.Highly recommend going to the textbooks website and using those slides because they are exactly what she has up in class and refuses to give to students plus they have more info.Overall im not a fan of rodriguez.

2.0
5.0
BIO101
Oct 6, 2008

She is very difficult. I don't think she has much respect towards her students and is not very helpful. The lecture is def a lecture. She talks fast and doesn't stop. Dont plan on coming in late without being called out. And if you want to skip class cont plan on higher than a low C

4.0
1.0
BIOL101
Oct 17, 2008

Cares a lot about her class. Will work with students if she sees that they make an earnest effort in her class. Tests are a piece of cake if you listen to what she says, not what her notes say.

3.0
5.0
BIOL101
Nov 12, 2008

TESTS are HARD

4.0
5.0
BIO205
Nov 26, 2008

miss r. is pretty cool. i had her for anato lab. she is super knowledgeable and she will warn over and over about studying-believe her. she'll help u out and break things down even if it is like the simplest question. she goes kind of fast but too it is a lot of material to learn. anybody can tell that anatomy really is her passion. JUST STUDY!!

2.0
5.0
BIO101
Nov 27, 2008

Close to impossible to get an A. Absolutely has no compassion, no heart, no mercy. Highest grade in class was a 94 percent and will not curve. She runs her class like its boot camp.

2.0
5.0
BIO101
Dec 9, 2008

She is very hard.You should attend every class because the CPS points are going to be helpful.Also she gives unannounced quizzes.She doesn't give any extra credit or quizzes online like other teachers.You have to be ready for a hard year if you take her class.GOOD LUCK!!

2.0
5.0
BIO101
Dec 10, 2008

I had to Withdraw my ONLY withdraw ever!! and I made an A with the other professor..WASTE OF TIME AND MONEY!!!

1.0
5.0
BIO205
Dec 11, 2008

Rodriguez has no clue..... she is ludicrously hard and puts herself on a pedestal far higher than is necessary. She knows what she is talking about, but her overall demeanor and approach to teaching has deterred me quite strongly. BOO!

4.0
5.0
BIO101
Dec 18, 2008

she's very tough.you have to show up to class because she does CPS all the time.she also does unannounced as well as announced quizes.if you want help from her she is totally willing to do so.I got As and Bs on the tests.just read the chapters in the book and you'll do fine on tests cuz thats what helped me pass!

5.0
5.0
BIO101
Jan 8, 2009

Dr. Rodriguez is a great professor-she just expects students to actually work, which many of them don't really want to to do. Every time I had a question, she took the time to answer it. If you study (using the textbook) and attend class (very important!), you'll be fine.

4.0
4.0
BIO101
Jan 31, 2009

She is a nice lady. Read the book and you will do fine on the tests. She is very willing to help those who are willing to help themselves. Students disrespect her often because they don't like her and that she actually takes attendance, etc. Get over it-you're in college!

3.0
5.0
BIO101
Jan 31, 2009

She is relatively hard. 2nd test is the hardest. She gives 5 exams during the semester but you only have to take 4. If you take 5, you can drop the lowest. BUY A CPS device and register it! It is used for quizzes and almost daily questions and together they are worth 20% of your total grade.

4.0
5.0
BIOL101
Feb 10, 2009

I recommend not to take her for bio101

4.0
3.0
BIO205
Apr 13, 2009

She is very tough and expects a lot from her class. Study a lot or you will fail this class. She talks a lot about how she is tough because she is teaching future doctors but I never met anyone in there going to med school.

3.0
4.0
BIO205
Apr 15, 2009

Be prepared to make BASIC Human Anatomy your entire life for the semester. This class is by no means BASIC. Dr. Rod is constantly on a major power trip. Do NOT let her intimidate you. She does not know how to teach very well, but that is besides the point. Come to class, do CPS, study your butt off, and GO TO OPEN LAB. Good luck!

1.0
5.0
BIO101
Apr 20, 2009

Do not take any of her classes.

2.0
3.0
BIOL205
May 7, 2009

Demotivating and arrogant. Should not be paid to teach. Failed to demonstrate any knowledge of subject beyond prepared lecture materials.

1.0
5.0
BIO101
May 24, 2009

She is the worts teacher that you will ever take in VCU. Do yourself a favor and wait another semester for another class to open with a different teacher because she is a horrible teacher. Just fore warning!

3.0
5.0
BIOL205
Jun 3, 2009

Prepare yourself to dedicate your semester to this class. Rodriguez tries to help, but most of the time isn't as helpful as she believes. Comes across mean, but can be nice once you talk to her. I pulled off an A, but only because I spent an incredible amount of time in open lab, attending SI, and highlighting notes along in class in my book.

2.0
5.0
BIO205
Jun 19, 2009

Hardest undergraduate class I have ever taken! Dr. Rod is on a power trip. She pulls exact information from the book and puts it onto a lecture slideshow. Don't bother trying to follow it, she speed races through the information and never bothers to clarify and further explain what the text MEANS. You might as well read and teach yourself the book.

4.0
3.0
BIOL205
Jun 29, 2009

Anatomy with Dr. Rodriguez was not nearly as bad everyone is making it out to be. Yes, you will put a lot of time in the course. Yes, you need to show up to class. Yes, you need to STUDY! She treats her students as college students and expects you to take the initiative to prepare yourself appropriately for the exams.

2.0
3.0
BIOL205
Aug 3, 2009

Huge chip on her shoulder.

2.0
3.0
BIO101
Sep 16, 2009

least favorite teacher in 5 years of VCU. she knows what's going on, but is not capable of teaching a 101 class properly (although I hate all 101 courses) she moves too fast for new students, goes off on tangents about what annoys her, and the CPS testing method is awful, as well as many of her own. BIO 101 is just a poor class in general.

2.0
5.0
BIO205
Nov 1, 2009

Took her for Bio 101 and Bio 205. By far the hardest two classes I've taken in college. She told us half the class would fail on our first day in BIO 101. She speeds through lectures. Picks who she likes. Only take if she's your last resort. Notes are from the nook verbatim, any additional explanation or help you need forget about it. Also Arrogant

1.0
5.0
BIO101
Nov 3, 2009

STAY AWAY! DONT TAKE IF YOU HAVE THE OPTION! HARDEST CLASS EVER.

5.0
4.0
BIOL101
Nov 6, 2009

Very knowledgeable and intelligent professor. I really enjoyed this class. As long as you do all of the homework, study, and attend the marathon sessions, you will be guaranteed an A. She does not take any excuses from students and is only willing to be helpful if she knows you are putting in effort.

1.0
5.0
BIO101
Nov 14, 2009

I think she's very strict.

5.0
5.0
BIO101
Nov 20, 2009

Dr. Rodriguez is a great professor. She comes to class prepared and is very clear with the material. She gives students every opportunity to succeed by powerpoint lecture with pictures and connection to the world;she also posts a chapter outline to follow along with. I would reccommend Dr. Rodriguez to any student who is looking to take Bio 101.

4.0
4.0
BIO101
Nov 24, 2009

strict but fair she will only help you if she knows you are trying. she gives you chapter outlines which are basicly exactly what is on the powerpoints she puts up in class if you miss a couple classes you should be fine. you MUST study for this class and dont use your phone or talk in class unless u want to b yelled at in front of 300 students.

5.0
2.0
BIO101
Dec 8, 2009

Material wise the class was not difficult at all it is basic biology material. Although she does yell sometimes it's only because she expects full attn, its only a 50 minute class. I didnt touch my book all semster and barely studied and did great. Most of the people complaining are freshmen and not used to college level work.

1.0
3.0
BIOL205
Dec 14, 2009

I have a profound appreciation of the challenges that face college professors but even with all due consideration, Dr R is just an awful awful awful professor. Can you get an A? Yes. Will you still wish you took the class with someone else? Yes. Do NOT take her - she should be fired.

2.0
4.0
BIOL205
Dec 14, 2009

The only way I can see anyone writing a positive review of this professor is if it were written by Dr R herself. Incidentally, she is the type of insecure person that would do such a thing. DO NOT TAKE HER!

2.0
5.0
BIOL101
Apr 21, 2010

Tests arent too hard but they are for 101 class. One day I remember her saying I wonder how many D's F's and Withdrawals I'll have this semester and laughing. Nothing about that was funny to me. I went to her office once for help and she quizzed me on the spot, who does that? A C is attainable but youll have to study.

4.0
5.0
ANAT205
Apr 21, 2010

Was she really that bad?? Stern yes, but goes over everything you need to know. Everything is in term list all it takes is practice. Always was glad to clarify any confusion always helped after class. Whats the problem? So she is strict get over it you whiners.

5.0
5.0
BIOL205
Apr 22, 2010

This class is really hard. There is a lot of information to cover, but Dr. Rodriguez did it really well. She was really helpful to students who had questions. She is really funny and made a subject as dry as anatomy more interesting than I ever expected it to be. Her tests are really fair, but you gotta study!

4.0
5.0
BIO205
May 4, 2010

Let's be real. This is anatomy. Any teacher is going to be hard. You do get some "fluff" points though with the CPS and loncapa. Go to open lab or lab is going to kick your butt.

4.0
5.0
BIO205
May 18, 2010

I was dreading having Rodriquez as my teacher because I had heard such horrible things but this class was my favorite. She makes class VERY interesting and adds things that will relate to our future professions. This class is no joke though and if you don't study A LOT you will not like your grade. She tells you what she expects from day 1.

5.0
5.0
BIO205
Jun 25, 2010

Dr. Rodriguez is an amazing teacher. I was strongly advised not to take her class... but all of those people clearly did not study or pay attention in class. Go to class, and don't be rude. She helps you with any and everything. You are told everything you need to know, it is in your hands to go to open lab and study. I got an A in the course.

3.0
5.0
BIO205
Jun 29, 2010

I had her for bio 101 and 205. You have to read the book, don't bother with outlines, not big help for lecture, they're go for lab. Final was tricky got 81, but sitll got C overall. had cario for lab, passed two lab pracitacls, online quizzes big help. Class avg for lab was in 50s!! Good luck, antmny will practically be your life!!

5.0
4.0
BIO205
Jul 11, 2010

Dr. R is a very fair professor and she expects a lot from her students. She expects them to be punctual and to be respectful. The tests are detailed so you need to read the book. Open lab will rule your life. Good luck. She really is a wonderful teacher.

1.0
5.0
BIOL205
Aug 29, 2010

Got an A but just couldn't stand Rodriguez. This is a memorization class pure and simple but lab is purposefully confusing and pointlessly time consuming. Nothing to do with learning and everything to do with weeding out students. Avoid this course and especially this professor if you can.

5.0
4.0
BIO205
Oct 19, 2010

Dr. Rodriguez is AWESOME. everyone who hates on her clearly didn't study. She tells you what you NEED to do to get and A and she has office hours to help you out. A SMART student would take advantage of that. I Love her and recommend her to EVERYONE who takes Anatomy. <3

2.0
5.0
BIO101
Nov 7, 2010

For those looking to coast through a 101 class - do NOT take her class. If you feel like being yelled at for an hour and 15 minutes and going so fast its literally impossible to take notes, be my guest (in the TR section we cover 2 sometimes 3 chapters per week). After one exam, in a class of 205 there were 115 D's and F's. That is not normal.

3.0
5.0
BIO101
Dec 1, 2010

Rodriguez is a nice lady but I really did not enjoy her class. I hate science but had to take 101 to fulfill my gen. ed. requirements and this class really had a negative effect on my gpa it is way too difficult for just a 101 course where most of us don't even want to be there. I don't recommend this course to anyone but bio majors.

3.0
5.0
BIO101
Dec 16, 2010

Terrible Teacher!!! For exams, no showing up a minute late, no water bottles near you, no hooded sweatshirts. she freaks out in the class when she sees cell phones out on desks. uses confusing powerpoints and makes it difficult to get outside help. very difficult and doesn't give help to students

5.0
4.0
BIO391
Feb 3, 2011

I absolutely love Dr. Rodriguez. She is a very strict teacher, she hates cell phones, lateness, etc. but she is very good at what she does. She loves to teach reproductive biology because thats her specialty. She is so patient with all her students when we ask question and loves to answer them. I would recommend her to anyone, especially Bio majors

4.0
5.0
BIO205
Oct 17, 2011

Dr.Rodriguez is a wonderful person.She cares about her class,but shes extremely HARD.If you want an A do not take her class.Anatomy with her is hard so I would advise you to take it by itself in the summer or somewhere else.Shes willing to help you,but she is very tough.Anatomy is a hard subject anyways that you will have to devote your life to it.

5.0
4.0
BIO205
Nov 18, 2011

great at teaching. very clear and help clarify. She is intimidating, but she just wants everyone to do well. She can be very crazy about phones and those who don't listen. Tests are straight forward. Know your materials very well and you'll do fine. Anatomy is hard to begin with so don't blame it on her. She goes hand in hand w/ the book

5.0
4.0
BIO205
Nov 18, 2011

3 tests and cumulative final. attendance is mandatory since there are like 1-4 clicker questions. 50% is accuracy and 50% is participation for clicker questions. Anatomy isn't easy, but you'll be ok if you study. Half of the class dropped, so you can't slack. Lab and lecture is graded together.

5.0
5.0
BIOL391
May 7, 2012

One of the hardest classes I've ever taken, but hands down one of the best professors at VCU. All of the class discussions and her stories make showing up to class very worth it.

5.0
4.0
BIO205
May 12, 2012

For serious students only: Find out the way this class works as soon as you can. Pretend the final exam is next week every week. Don't take a full load with this class. Ask and trust preceptors for guidance early on! Its a great feeling to have done well in this class.

5.0
4.0
BIOL205
Mar 3, 2013

This course is an extremely time consuming class. You will spend at least 40 hours week studying. Dr. Rodriguez is straight forward about expectations, she does not play. She does respect her students and wants each to succeed.

5.0
4.0
BIOL205
Nov 9, 2013

This is by far one of the toughest courses at VCU. However, if you plan on going into any medical program, you will be more than prepared. Don't take other hard classes with this and be ready to study. Dr. Rodriguez takes the class seriously but has very clear and fair expectations. She will help you in any way she can.

5.0
5.0
BIOL205
Dec 3, 2013

From the get go, Dr. Rodriguez has talked down to students, "Only the best will get into their medical schools, we won't see them in this class again." Alright, we get it. That's something we don't have to be told every class. it's not encouraging at all. Strict, but knows her stuff and gets a ton of information covered during lab.

5.0
5.0
BIO205
Dec 12, 2013

She is just awesome. This is a tough course, probably the most challenging class I've ever taken. She is straight to the point, very intelligent, and will give you her time if you put in the effort. If you don't put the time to study, and you don't go to open lab, you WILL FAIL... and Dr. Rodriguez will call you out on it too! Good luck!

5.0
4.0
BIO205
Dec 19, 2013

I know we have all heard rumors about Dr. Rodriguez being mean and tough, but the truth is she is an amazing professor! She really cares about her students and want them all to do well! The class is TOUGH so expect to go to open lab 24-7! Do not take other difficult classes because this is so time consuming! The final is tough, just be dedicated!

5.0
4.0
BIOL205
Feb 6, 2014

Professor Rodriguez is by far an easy instructor. However, she truly wants you to learn the material and succeed. She goes through the material relatively quickly. So ask a lot of questions. This class is very time consuming. In order to fully grasp the material, you need to look over the text, do the work book and go to open lab regularly. GL all.

2.0
5.0
BIOL314
Apr 21, 2014

Absolutely awful. Avoid at all costs! She grades this class with clickers. Clickers for participation points, quizzes & exams. Multiple Multiple choice and free response answers that you respond to with your clicker, like texting on a flip phone. Grades harshly, laughs at students' demise. HORRIBLE! Asks way too much of students-I studied 22+hrS/wk

5.0
3.0
BIO205
May 15, 2014

She is strict but fair. Worth taking her anatomy class, you will learn a lot. Be prepared to study. She will help you, don't be afraid of her.

4.0
4.0
BIOL205
Nov 2, 2014

Extremely tough grader but this class teaches you a LOT. She prefers if you tried to learn on your own but if you do have questions she will be helpful to you. Be prepared to read a LOT and go to open lab a LOT.

3.0
4.0
BIO205
Jan 11, 2015

Dr. Rodriguez was the professor for the anatomy lecture in fall 2014. She was absolutely hilarious, but extremely tough. She doesn't want you to just memorize, but to apply everything you have learned. She will call you out. Anatomy is a really hard class in general so you need to work for it.

5.0
4.0
BIOL205
Apr 25, 2015

I LOVE HER. This class is not hard, its time consuming. And she will tell you that right from the start. Shes a great personality in the class room and I love her teaching style! Be prepared to get called out on the spot.

3.0
4.0
BIOL205
Dec 15, 2015

Basic Human Anatomy was one of the most challenging classes I have taken at VCU. This class moves QUICKLY and you have to learn to manage your studying time wisely. Go to class as clicker points are graded (they're also helpful preparations for exams.) I feel that this class will give me a good foundation as I start pharmacy school next fall.

4.0
5.0
BIO205
Jan 6, 2016

You must live and breathe Anatomy to succeed in this class. This isn't a joke. Rodriguez is cool and knows her stuff and she expects you to know it too. Make this class your main priority. Open Lab is ESSENTIAL to even getting familiar with what you're about to go though for the tests. Good luck and may the odds be in your favor :-)

2.0
5.0
BIOL205
Grade: C
May 3, 2016

She is the best lab professor for anatomy! I wish I had her lecture also, but don't expect to take it easy in this class. Dr. Rodriguez will call you out on your slacking off, having your phones out or anything else. She expects a lot out of her students, but overall she is a wonderful person and does want her students to succeed.

4.0
4.0
BIOL205
Grade: B
May 20, 2016

Anatomy is by no means easy and she was tough but she really wanted her students to learn. She definitely knew her stuff! Don't be afraid to ask questions and go to open lab like its a mandatory class and you should be fine.

2.0
5.0
BIO205
Grade: A
Oct 7, 2016
Wouldn't take again

There's probably two semesters worth of material crammed into this class because she expects you to know the physiology of the body already by the time you take this course. If you don't, you will essentially have to learn all of that alongside the anatomy material since you will be tested on that as well. Use flashcards. Test yourself constantly.

Tough Grader
Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
5.0
4.0
BIO205
Grade: B+
Dec 8, 2016
Would take again

She is really passionate and her lectures are engaging as a result. The material is hard, and it's important, so she takes it very seriously. She does not tolerate any kind of foolishness; she will call you out in front of the whole class for talking or using your phone. She's really funny, and she's 100% willing to help students who work hard.

Skip class? You won't pass.
Clear grading criteria
Amazing lectures
5.0
3.0
BIOL205
Grade: B
Dec 12, 2016
Would take again

I loved Dr. Rodriguez. I had her for lab. She's very upbeat and she loves what she teaches. She's happy to answer questions and explain things to you again. GO TO OPEN LAB. I would definitely recommend taking her.

Gives good feedback
Skip class? You won't pass.
TEST HEAVY
2.0
5.0
BIO205
Grade: B
Dec 15, 2016
Wouldn't take again

Don't take her if you're actually looking for a professor that will help you learn. Expect to teach yourself the majority of the work as if you have a question, good luck getting the answer from her. There were several times in lecture where the information she had was incorrect although she's very informative. Got a B though

5.0
4.0
BIO205
Grade: B
Dec 20, 2016
Would take again

By far one of the best professors I have had! She's definitely passionate about what she teaches and wants her students to learn. I would recommend taking physiology first, tho. Study each day, go to open lab, you will do just fine! She's great take her for lab and lecture! I actually walked away from this class learning about the body, she's great

Participation matters
Skip class? You won't pass.
Amazing lectures
1.0
4.0
BIO205
Grade: F
Dec 30, 2016
Wouldn't take again

One of the worst professors I've had at my time at VCU. She's very intelligent, that's clear, but she does a terrible job at being able to transfer that knowledge. She doesn't post her slides but she'll post outlines that are sometimes helpful. This class is already difficult Rodriguez just makes it much harder. Consider Polich, Yaber, or Cario!!!

Participation matters
Skip class? You won't pass.
LECTURE HEAVY
1.0
5.0
BIO205
Grade: F
Jan 27, 2017
Wouldn't take again

I normally don't rant about professors on here but I feel I need to warn people about this one. Shes the hardest professor I've ever had and makes anatomy (already hard class at VCU) way more difficult than it has to be. She also brags in front of the class about failing students. The bell curve was around 50 not a C so most fail. Do not take her.

Tough Grader
Get ready to read
TEST HEAVY
1.0
5.0
ANAT205
Grade: B
Feb 3, 2017
Wouldn't take again

Get a mini whiteboard to write lecture material over and over (i.e. Pathways) If you know the Lab manual BACKWARD AND FORWARD you can get about a 70% but with the weight of exams thats not enough. Be able to do the entire open lab without the manual 2 days before the exam. If you can't commit to putting this before all your other classes, drop.

Skip class? You won't pass.
Clear grading criteria
TEST HEAVY
2.0
5.0
BIOL314
Grade: D
Apr 11, 2017
Wouldn't take again

I don't recommend taking her classes. Tests are very difficult and you must use a clicker to submit them. Her grading criteria is rather unclear. The 4 exams make up 89% of your grade. All of the exam questions are multiple choice - except on most you're expected to choose MORE THAN ONE ANSWER. Good class only if you wish to be a vet or a doctor.

Participation matters
TEST HEAVY
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
1.0
5.0
BIOL205
Grade: B
Apr 18, 2017
Wouldn't take again

Arrogant and very unreasonable. Has a complex and argues with students. Better off taking any of the 3 other professors

1.0
5.0
BIOL205
Apr 18, 2017
Wouldn't take again

She knows her material but her personality sets up her students to fail. Doesn't care to help students understand the material. Don't understand why she gets paid to "teach" a class of this difficulty when helping students succeed is not in her interests. Asked her numerous times for help only to have her laugh in my face/tell me to work it out

Tough Grader
Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
1.0
5.0
BIOL205
Grade: B
Apr 25, 2017
Wouldn't take again

Tests are worth a high percentage of your grade. I did pretty well in the class but others struggled because the way she approaches teaching the class isnt very helpful to students.

Tough Grader
TEST HEAVY
3.0
4.0
BIOL314
Grade: A-
Apr 28, 2017
Wouldn't take again

Only take this if you're serious about entering the medical or veterinary field. All her lecture slides flow really well and in order with the textbook, so if you miss something in class you can always fill in the gaps by reading. 4 exams are worth 89% of the class and she has no final exam, so study everything very thoroughly!

Tough Grader
Get ready to read
BEWARE OF POP QUIZZES
2.0
5.0
BIOL205
Oct 13, 2017
Wouldn't take again

The class isnt set up for students to be successful in my honest opinion. Theres about 300 students in lecture and opportunities for assistance have a 30 person cap. That leaves LOTS of people without help. No matter how many hours you take to study and visit open lab, its not enough. Im convinced youre wanted to take the course more than once

Tough Grader
Get ready to read
TEST HEAVY
5.0
4.0
BIOL205
Grade: A
Nov 28, 2017
Would take again

This class is definitely challenging--it is fast paced, a lot of material, and it is easy to fall behind. However, Dr. Rodriguez made her expectations of us clear so it is not like anything was a complete surprise. Additionally, I really appreciated how she treated us like we were future professionals--she did not baby us and because of it, I feel

Respected
Tests are tough
Would take again
1.0
5.0
BIO205
Dec 13, 2017
Wouldn't take again

she is a hilarious but strict teacher. I would not take her for lecture or lab ever. Anatomy in all is just a terrible class but she makes it worse.

Tough Grader
Tests are tough
LECTURE HEAVY
3.0
4.0
BIOL205
Grade: B-
Dec 15, 2017
Would take again

There are 4 exams plus a final. Going to open lab/studying is a must. I got high C's on all of the lab exams (My lab section averaged D's and F's though). I probably could've gotten higher if my schedule allowed open lab time. The final exam was very different than the lab exams, way heavier on histology & hormones vs actual anatomy of the body.

Tough Grader
Skip class? You won't pass.
Tests are tough
4.0
4.0
BIOL314
Grade: Not sure yet
Mar 30, 2018
Would take again

Dr R is a dang good professor. If you want to go to a professional school and shes *too hard* for you, rethink your career choice. Tests come *DIRECTLY* from lecture and the text book. Yes you have to study and not just cram the night before. Don's sit on your phone in class, and keep up with material because she does give pop quizzes.

Skip class? You won't pass.
BEWARE OF POP QUIZZES
TEST HEAVY
1.0
5.0
BIOL205
Grade: Drop/Withdrawal
Jun 2, 2018
Wouldn't take again

Professor Rodriguez is STRICT and tells it how it is. The majority of the points come from tests and to pass this class you pretty much have to do well on EVERY exam. The tests are difficult and very specific (no multiple choice or partial credit). I ended up withdrawing. I strongly recommend taking this course at a community college.

Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
4.0
5.0
BIOL314
Grade: D+
Apr 30, 2019
Wouldn't take again

Her tests are select all that apply out of 5 answers and she purposely makes them as difficult as possible

Get ready to read
Participation matters
Skip class? You won't pass.
4.0
5.0
BIOL205
Grade: B+
May 15, 2019
Would take again

Rodriguez is SO passionate about anatomy. Shes' a very picky & specific grader. She'll call unprepared students out, & appreciates when students answer questions in lab. She believes in ACTIVE studying (aka don't stare at textbook) & appreciates valid arguments for points back- not to argue just "because" It's hard, but she's great.

Respected
Tough grader
3.0
5.0
BIO205
Grade: Drop/Withdrawal
Aug 20, 2019
Wouldn't take again

She is funny and accessible outside of class, but the class is very difficult. Very tough grader. She tries to be motivational, but it can often come across as somewhat belittling. Structure of exams is terrible. Take somewhere else if you can!

Skip class? You won't pass.
Graded by few things
Tough grader
5.0
5.0
BIO205
Grade: A
Apr 21, 2022
Would take again

Anatomy sucks at VCU no matter who you take it with, its crazy hard. However, Professor Rodriguez is so passionate and it is really fun to learn from her. She is realistic with you, this class is a ton of work, but if you put in the work it pays off. Start the class working hard because it only gets harder. If you put in the work you'll do fine.

Tough grader
Amazing lectures
Lots of homework
5.0
3.0
BIOL205
Grade: B+
Apr 26, 2022
Would take again

I loved having Dr. Rodriguez in lab, I took her lab at 9am, and she was always a boost of energy and had the class participating. She is very open to questions and genuinely wants you to learn. She is very detailed and knows what she is talking about.

Group projects
Inspirational
Hilarious
1.0
5.0
BIOL205
Grade: Drop/Withdrawal
May 2, 2022

Worst professor ever!! She is so rude and will answer your questions like you are dumb. Good luck trying to ask her for help, she doesn't care! She is not afraid to call students out. Tests are extremely hard, and you must study for hours and hours. I recommend taking anatomy somewhere else, like a community college.

Tough grader
Participation matters
Lecture heavy
1.0
5.0
BIO205
Grade: Drop/Withdrawal
Nov 29, 2022

Dr. Rodriguez is a very strict teacher, she expects you to know everything and gets irritated when you don't immediately know the answer to something. I would 1000% recommend taking this course at a community college instead.

Tough grader
Lots of homework
Test heavy
1.0
5.0
BIOL205
Grade: Drop/Withdrawal
Dec 21, 2022

Not a good professor. Extremely disrespectful, rude, and will belittle you. Personally attacks students, or what she likes to call, "calling" students out. In general not a professor I would feel comfortable with taking again.

Tough grader
So many papers
5.0
4.0
BIOL524
Grade: A
Sep 22, 2023
Would take again

Rigorous class made for those who are interested in medical science. Strongly recommend if one wants to prep for professional/graduate level school.

Get ready to read
Clear grading criteria
Graded by few things
1.0
5.0
BIO205
Grade: B
Jan 18, 2024

Should be fired, choose a professor who is in the right mindset to teach. Berated me and others in front of entire class though we were good students who came prepared and actively participated. Said things like "we could be doing a lot better" and nagged about our parents financials. Even if you are trying your best she will make you feel terrible

4.0
4.0
BIO205
Grade: B+
Feb 11, 2024
Would take again

She can be harsh, as she expects students to follow her standards and have knowledge of the material before the lab. But, if you come prepared and are respectful, she is extremely willing to help and a pleasure to learn from. She is not as scary as she seems and is truly one of my favorite professors I've worked with at VCU.

5.0
4.0
BIOL205
Mar 30, 2024
Would take again

I adore Dr. Rodriguez because she is always willing to answer any questions and cares deeply about the success of her students. One thing that helped me pass anatomy is the open labs, which I recommend!

Caring
5.0
4.0
BIO205
Grade: A-
Apr 26, 2024
Would take again

It's clear Dr. Rodriguez is very passionate about anatomy! She really cares about her students and wants us to do as well as possible. The lab practicals are tough, but once you understand the format, they aren't too bad. She's very good at explaining things and helping to put the pieces together! She also loves to make the class laugh!

Amazing lectures
Clear grading criteria
Graded by few things
1.0
4.0
BIO205
Grade: B
Dec 1, 2024

I'm surprised she is still a teacher here. I heard a lot of negative stuff about her but was forced to take her and regret it. If you are doing good or bad it doesn't matter, when you go to ask her for help she will just tell you that you aren't doing enough. Has made many students cry and is just overall really inconsiderate and unprofessional.

3.0
4.0
BIOL205
Grade: B-
Jan 9, 2025

Dr. Rodriguez is very passionate about anatomy, but her teaching style can be polarizing. While she expects active engagement, open labs provide valuable support. Using resources like Unstuck study alongside the textbook is key to succeeding in her challenging but rewarding course.

5.0
3.0
BIO205
Grade: A+
Dec 4, 2025
Would take again

I had her fall 2025, and I really just can't comprehend some of these reviews. I have never seen her be rude to any student, but she will address you if you didn't come to class in the proper clothing/shoes. So don't come in a crop top, it's not hard? She is passionate, and I loved her. Go to open lab!! You NEED to put in the time or you'll suffer!

Clear grading criteria
Inspirational
Hilarious
5.0
4.0
BIO205
Grade: A-
Dec 8, 2025

Prof. Rodriguez did a good job teaching a lot of material. She is kind. I learned the most in this course of any of my classes. This class is pure memorization. I had to reduce my hours at work specifically for this class. Lab book purchase felt predatory, as tests will only take the exact terminology from that book for ease of grading.

Lots of homework
Hilarious
Lecture heavy
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

97%

Textbook Required

100%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

B

95% confidence
Based on 28 grades
Most common grades:
B (9)
Drop/Withdrawal (5)
A (4)
Grade Distribution
A(5)B(11)C(1)D(7)F(2)A-/B+(7)
Based on 34 reported grades
B: 9
Drop/Withdrawal: 5
A: 4
B+: 4
Common Tags
Skip class? You won't pass. (12)
Tough Grader (8)
Get ready to read (8)
TEST HEAVY (7)
Tough grader (6)
Clear grading criteria (5)
Participation matters (5)
Tests are tough (3)
Rating Trend

Declining

-0.23 avg change
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Last 6 months
Ratings by Course

BIO391

5.0

(1)

BIOL391

5.0

(1)

BIOL524

5.0

(1)

BIOL101

3.6

(5)

BIO205

3.4

(39)
+5 more courses
Difficulty by Course

ANAT205

5.0

BIOL391

5.0

BIOL314

4.6

BIO101

4.5

BIO205

4.4

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