best english teacher i've had, and we did it...homework that is! very ispirational.

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He will kick your ass a bit, but you are so much better off for it. Mr. Vela Rocks.

Very Political and Politicaly correct

Prof Vela is the bomb. He brings a lot of cool books that might be related to the author we're talking about. He is brilliant. He does everything to engage the student into the works and literature in general.

There's a lot of writing, but he is more than willing to work with you after class or in his office. I've never had a better professor.

Took him back in 2001 and he's still my favorite college professor that I've had the pleasure of attending. Always energetic, involves entire class, very comprehensible. I've have countless literary teachers and trust me, you can't go wrong with Vela. Lots of writing, but on interesting, engaging material.

He makes you work hard but you will never find a more helpful, kind and intelligent professor who encourages you to think for yourself. Professors like mr. vela are rare. Enjoy him while you have him.

Prof Vela is the best professor I have every had! He is very political, but in a good way. I thought I had no interest in politics whatsoever, but he made it interesting and enjoyable, yet imformative. Smart man with an awesome memory and he likes to socialize with his students. Like others said, he is rare.

On the second meeting of the class he assigned a 7pg paper. 30 students became 10, which allows him to know you better. He's a sharp man who knows his stuff. Vela's an Ivy League scholar; his teachings make me feel as if I am receiving an Ivy League education! =D

Great human being with compassion for his students. Works with you if you have issues. I broke my arm this semester and he was very understanding about it. Loves politics , so if you dont like it or it isnt your forte, than I advise you not to take his class.

Awesome teacher. Obviously loves what he does. Politically knowledgeable. Have a high-lighter handy cause it will be very helpful when you write papers. He likes to know you pay attention in class by restating some of the themes discussed in class. Let's you express your own ideas. Cool guy.

AMAZING teacher. I never knew writing an essay could be so freeing. He literally lets you write about anything you want. As long as you write WELL, the subject doesn't really matter. He's very passionate and he keeps your attention. He's even helpful outside of class! He'll read your essay before it's due to give you REALLY helpful feedback.

One of the few quality teachers left at DVC. The reading is mandatory if you are looking for a decent grade. Know how to write a proper college-level essay along with MLA/APA formatting before entering the course. I learned a great deal from Vela's class, and hope to take him again.

Best prof I've ever had. Took Eng 126 and 151 with him. Better know how to write a college level paper and be prepared to do ALL of the reading. He is enthusiastic and it is contagious. I'm looking for an excuse to take another class with him before I transfer. If you don't like politics or historical background, you may not enjoy his style.

If your looking for a challenge, you've found the right guy. At first I was put off by all the work, but now I just want more. I'm sad that this is the last English class I need to transfer. He is hard but extremely fair.

The class is a little overwhelming at first. He focuses on politics and the Middle East throughout the course. You must know how to write a college level essay! He grades fairly. I am really enjoying his class and am going to walk away with a lot of useful information.

I wasn't interested in politics before entering this course but now that the semester is nearly over, I can't get enough. Vela is my first college English professor and my first impressions of the class were negative. I was scared by the amount of work (8pg essay on afg/pak) but I am a better writer for it. Vela is wonderful, yet challenging.

One of the best instructors I have had in my many years of college. Take this class only if you enjoy engaging in class discussion and like to keep up on current international politics. Most of the class is spent discussing the middle east and global terrorism. This is what a college level class should be.

he is the best teacher and he is alwasy willing to help you with everything you will learn a lot from him and he is a good friend to have everyone should have him there should be more teachers like him everywhere when i leave DVC i hope that i would find another teacher like Mr. Vela he really rocks so if you want a good teacher take Mr. Velas clas

Great teacher. Clear on what he wants in assignments. Extremely informative. I never liked english and now I found out I am actually a good writer and have come out with quite a bit of political knowledge.

In order to do well it is important to really make your voice be known during class discussions. Reading is definitely mandatory if you wish to contribute any points worth actually noting. He's quite helpful when it comes to helping you improve your writing content during office hours.

Vela is incredibly smart, so pay attention! He is very helpful and totally approachable. The essays can be intimidating but he always available to help. The material is intense so don't try and skate by, do the work! I learned a lot from him and actually retained it. He's a legit teacher.

Complex teacher for a complex class. Don't get left behind by not doing the reading. The class is mostly discussion so it can be a long class if you don't participate. Essays are intense and he has high expectations so put in your best effort and ask for help when you need it. You cannot skate by in this class. Mr. Vela is a great teacher.

huge ego, watch out. dont disagree with him or do anything that will hurt his ego because he looks like that kind of guy that will pick on you in class.

Very nice man. looks like he cares about each student and likes to be under stood..BUT i felt that i was in a history class rather than an english class! Would of loved him if he didnt base EVERYTHING he teaches on history. If your not interested in history then dont take him. Alot of work! good luck

This is the hardest class I have ever taken at dvc. I was highly dissapointed with the course. The essays are beyond challenging, and he has high expectations. I felt like he never introduced the areas we were to cover he just jumped right into the middle...dissapointing

For those of you who do not want to work hard or come to class everyday, this is not the class for you. While I'm about to finish his English 122 class, every single day I learned something new. He is very methodical, loves to help any student, and is overall an excellent teacher and human being.

Professor Vela is a very intelligent and helpful teacher. You will very quickly get the impression that he enjoys teaching and is there to help you succeed. The subject matter was very relative to what is going on in the world today, so while his class is challenging, it is definitely worthwhile to take his class.

His class is amazing because you will learn a lot out of it. There are a lot of reading but they are all interesting topics. He is extremely helpful and nice.Be in his class all the time.

Mr. Vela was very intimidating the first few classes. He made it very clear that we would discuss and write lots on current politics, and we have. You have to be ON TIME!, and you must participate in class discussions for a good grade. While the work is very challenging, I have never loved english like I do now! Awesome teacher!

I'm pretty much an introvert and he was very understanding of it. I've applied what I've learned in this class to my other classes. I've always looked forward to his class.

This is a wonderful class for people interesting in learning how to write, and how to discuss literature. Mr. Vela is incredibly generous with his time and attention, if you make the time to make it to office hours. You will not skate by without reading, which is great! Beyond that, he is very personable and approachable. A wonderful teacher.

The class is "easy" if you are paying attention. Like the best teachers, he expects you to be proactive in your student career. You chose to take this class, so be there, on time and ready to go. Stern when required, and treats everyone like an adult. I am grateful for his help and support in class and look forward to taking another class with him.

If you are looking for an English class with an easy A, you aren't looking well enough. If you're looking for an invigorating instructor, here he is. Vela is enthusiastic about political ongoings in other countries and whatnot. If you need an interesting charm to your dreary DVC days, here he is.

Vela is very nice and helpful. The classes are group discussions about the reading material. Weekly reading assignments. Short papers here and there. Main assignments are midterm and final (which was a paper to be turned in at class time).

It is one of the best classes I've taken. It takes a lot of effort and it is nowhere near an easy A. So if you're looking into that go for other instructors. But if you want to challenge yourself and expand your horizons take him.

Hate english but Vela made it one of my fav classes. Actually cares about his students and wants you to pass. His lectures are interesting and straight to the point. Work is decent, 3 exams and no final.

Not an easy A, but the kind of English class everyone should take. The subject matter was very political and initially difficult to grasp - needed careful scrutiny and many re-readings. Readings and attendance are a MUST. Helpful when you ask him questions - he likes to establish personal relationships with his students. Challenging but rewarding.

By far my favorite teacher at DVC!! Class is I retesting and engaging! Three major papers to write and 4 books to read, but that is all. Also he picks fascinating topics, not the same old English class. He truly loves what he does, an enjoys his students! He expects effort, and effort is rewarded. Made me want to become an English major!

If you have a passion for English, this class is perfect. Vela pushes his students to do better than their best and loves to hear student input. The essays are edited in class and he gives your feedback on all of them before you turn in your final draft. Honestly one of the best English professors that I have ever had.

Tried his class but had to drop. He didn't actually teach any English but rather Columbian History. If you're an English buff like me but don't enjoy history classes, don't take him. Otherwise, he's a cool guy and just about anyone can easily get along with him.

My favorite teacher at DVC. I would take every eng class with him! We read nightly and just talk about what was read in class. wise and knowledgeable in every area of life and school. personal, engaging, and he wants to see you succeed. he cares about his students. two 8pg papers and the final (in class essay). if you try he'll get you there

Vela is an extremely intelligent professor. His class is intense and A LOT of work but I promise it will pay off. I finished the semester a stronger reader, writer & student. Read 4 books, wrote 2 papers, no tests, but final is an essay. Be on time, he learns your name! He seems intense at first but if you put in effort he takes total note of it.

This guy is seriously one of the best professors Ive ever had. Wonderful guy and amazing teacher. Be prepared though, hes super smart and expects his students to be as well.

Vela is a very intelligent and serious teacher. He will improve your writing and is willing to help if you ask and meet with him. If you are looking for an easy course this is NOT for you! He will make you work hard with many readings several essays. Attendance is mandatory to pass the class

This class is NOT an easy A. Vela makes you work. Class consists of lecture and then class discussion about the assigned reading. PARTICIPATE and note take. He is very intelligent and a nice guy. Demands respect and attendance.

Very good teacher. Only 2 essays and a final (in-class essay). Not an easy A, but you will do great if you do what he tells you to. A lot of reading and discussions. Fun class. Vela is the best English professor at DVC!!!!

Vela helped me improve my writing tremendously. He's helpful outside of class. Lectures are somewhat boring because he just talks about himself and vaguely discusses the essay assignments. The readings are difficult and heavy research is required. It is not an easy pass class. Take this class only if you're serious about becoming a better writer.

Best English Teacher at DVC!!

By far the best teacher I have ever had. Professor Vela is one of the most engaging professors you will ever know. He actually gets into the reading rather that having that 'I'm forced to give this to you but I hate it' feel. The class is challenging I will admit, and it is very heavy reading yet interesting. HIGHLY RECOMMEND

A true scholar. A dedicated teacher. Everything you would ever want in a person involved with education. Has true passion and flare unseen in many instructors. Definitely a person I hold in high regards. Take his class. It will benefit your life in general.

Best English teacher there. Very passionate and engaging. At first I was skeptical of his teaching methods but by the end I was a much better writer and learned a lot. If you want to be a better writer take him! Not an easy A but worth it. If you are late, don't come to class, or pay attention you will fail.

Vela is a great teacher. He is very passionate about what he teaches. He is very educated, having graduated from Yale, along with a teaching experience at Yale. He is a funny guy, with a lot of character. We reviewed Shakespearean sonnets first, then moved onto oddball plays. Classes are always full of discussion and he welcomes your ideasthoughts

Scholarly, astute, compassionate, engaging, and inspiring! I returned to college after a long absence, and David was the best. He engages students in lively discussions every class, and works a room socially and academically. He wants to hear what you have to say. Be prepared for a line outside his office as students just love to talk to him.

A uniquely caring, charismatic, sharp, alert, intellectual professor who will keep you on your toes. Come to class prepared to participate . He is fair, genuinely cares about his students, and, he WILL engage you. Do all the reading, participate, and you will do well. One essay, a midterm, and final blue book with texts allowed. HIGHLY RECOMMEND.

David Vela is the greatest teacher I have ever had. After the reading the syllabus with him the first day, I was ready to quit. But the curriculum and enthusiasm for the subject was so passionate and informative that my next English course will be with him. We covered so much on conflict and terrorism this semester. Easy?By no means. Worth it? Yes

Professor Vela is one of the best professors I've had. Get ready to think and write! This critical thinking class requires participation; it is not for the shy. There are 2 major written assignments, no exams, and one blue book final. Overall Professor Vela makes this class very interesting. I would definitely take classes from him again.

Great teacher! Inspirational for sure, not an easy class but one I am very glad I took and look back on with great memories.

An amazing professor. Passionate about teaching and genuinely wants his students to succeed. Class is intensely interesting and focuses on critical analysis of world events. Truly my favorite teacher of all time.

Professor David Vela is by far one of the greatest instructors I ever had. Although the topic by which he revolves his ENGL-126 class is not my cup of tea terrorism, he still managed to effectively improve my writing. He cares about his students and he develops a unique bond between each and every one of them.

Amazing teacher who constantly knew what he was talking about, and was always willing to help his students. His class was a lot of group discussions and him lecturing, but his lectures were always interesting and full of information. Easy class to have fun in, but attendance and doing the work is a must.

Vela knows his stuff. Speaks and writes in English, Spanish, French, knows some Italian. Can be intimidating only because of his accomplishments, he's actually one of the sweetest people you'll meet. Makes you read a ton, write and revise a ton. Encourages class participation, loves to get to know his students. Don't take the class for easy units!

David Vela, is an amazing, inspiring and respected man. He has a passion for what he does. Not only does he demonstrate his English skills, but he is willing to help you achieve your reading and writing goals. Its a tough class, however he WILL prepare you for UC level writing. Highly recommend him and you will thank him later when you transfer.

Took His Mythology course during this summer. Seriously an amazing professor. Believe me when I say this, you need to read the book. You seriously need the book with you as well. There was only two tests, both blue books. We read 5 books, all really interesting. Prof. Vela was very helpful and didn't grade down on opposing views on tests. Take him!

I had a bit of doubts about him at first. I spent a lot of the first couple weeks just sizing him up, trying to figure out if I liked him or not-lol. Once you get adjusted though, you'll find he truly cares about what he's doing. He's there to help, and wants you to get to the depth of the material. Class exceeded my expectations and was enjoyable.

Mr. Vela is the best teacher I've ever had. He led very interesting discussions in class, and used relevant subjects like terrorism to teach English. I learned so much about how literature has developed as well as how each genre is connected. Fascinating classes. Verbs drive!

Best Prof I've had at DVC. He assigns alot of reading although many of the books he's given are now my favorites. The focus of the class was Ethnic conflict and global terrorism. Papers are long although you go through a very long vetting process so its not very hard to write a really good paper. I took all my English classes with him.

Vela, is an amazing and most knowledgable professors here on campus. My english is not the greatest, however I would like to acknowledge his selfless service he has for students. I highly recommend going into his office hours for additional help or even just to get to know him. He is tough but fair! You will most definitely learn in his class!

An amazing guy! Really cares about his students.

If you're a political science major, definitely take his English 126 class. It focuses on current affairs and global conflict alongside making you critically think. He's also really sweet, smart, and inspirational. Definitely recommend taking him.

Would take him again. Makes you work for your grade. Respectful and helpful. Office hours are really helpful if you don't understand the assignments.

This really is one of the best classes I have taken in DVC. It's not an easy class, and if you are expecting to get an easy A, don't take him but if you want to learn then he's the guy for you. If you work hard, not only you'll get an A but you'll also learn how to write and think critically. His class inspired me to change my major. 2124

IF you are interested in the layers of today's ethnic conflicts with yesterday's imperialism. At first you'll think it's a Intro to International Terrorism class but it's vital as it relates today's political headlines. Vela is the best and most knowledgeable prof I've had at DVC. He has high expectations and challenges his students as he should.

This class will make you really work hard, but not for prof. Vela. You will realize that you are working for yourself to be a better writer and critical thinker. I liked his style of teaching through drafting. Writing about interesting topics oriented to terrorism was at first scary, however Vela was so supportive that we all became better writers

Spanish, French and English will be used in class. Use different language to Represent Shakespeare and His World. Compare and contrast Shakespeare and other poets. Analyze their different writing style.

I have never once rated any of my professors but I have finally decided to rate Vela because he is a living legend. He works hard to help you succeed, you just have to talk to him. He gives a lot of reading but the books he chooses are fantastic and really help with writing the papers he assigns. I recommend Vela for any class that he teaches.

Vela is one of the most caring english professors i've ever come across. He is passionate about what he does and you can tell. In this class you will WORK. He has 3 papers, but each of those has 6-8 rough drafts. He guides you along the process of ACTUALLY writing a paper over the course of a month, not procrastinating. Tough but rewarding.

GOOD PROFESSOR!!!! I would like to take it again!!! EZ A

Prof. Vela is one of the best professor I ever have had. He opened my mind to new problems around the world. He is very analytic, and he wants you to analyze problems and find solutions in order to make you a better critical thinker. Just be aware, you're going to have read a lot! but you're going to love it. I definitely suggest 100% his class.

Vela is by far the most passionate, intelligent, and frankly all-around best professor I've had at DVC. He's not necessarily easy, and as someone who fears participation, this course stretched me, but in the end I learned so much- and not just about Shakespeare. He genuinely cares about every single student. I'd highly recommend him to anyone.

Prof. Vela is by far one of the most incredible professors at Diablo Valley College. He is profound and caring, and will do the most he can to get you to reach your potential, both as a student and as a person. He takes several different factors into account while grading, and offers multiple chances for you to study and prepare for exams.

Professor Vela is one of the most amazing professors I have ever met. He is passionate about his students and wants them to succeed. I highly recommend seeing him in his office hours for any help. He is really understanding and gives great feedback on all papers. He will expand your mind and your writing skills!

A teacher who makes you work hard, but gives you ample opportunity for feedback. He is outgoing and the focus in his class is discussion based, but he hands the floor over to the students while he mediates. Participation is important- and make sure you write with clarity for his essays. He encourages students to do their best work.

Professor Vela is the BEST! He genuinely cares about your health and well being--has a heart of gold! If you're looking for an easy A and minimal writing; don't take this class. However, if you really want to improve your writing I HIGHLY encourage his class. You read a lot and draft a lot! The papers are the main chunk of your grade!!

Mr. Vela is an incredible professor! English 122 has been fun and I have learned so much. His class can be tough if you don't give yourself time to read and draft your essays. He is an extraordinarily intelligent person and wants you to succeed if your willing to give this class 100% effort. I look forward to taking 126 with him next semester.

He is the best English teacher I have ever had. He makes himself available to read your drafts outside of class during office hours. Cares a lot about the student as long as they show effort. He wants you to succeed and enjoy his class. Highly recommend Professor Vela. You'll learn a lot and improve your writing. I'll miss you Professor Vela!

AMAZING english professor, TAKE HIM. Expect to read tons, there's three major papers, 7-10 pages each.

Probably one of the greatest professors of DVC. He is constantly teaching you new information and real-world issues. I would highly recommend him if you have the time to put in. Very demanding, but with good intentions. There are 3 essays and one final, complexity is everything in this class. Honestly just be mature with him and your fine.

I did well in this class, but then I am also a good student always doing the work. Prof. Vela is great. Very articulated and wants his students to pass. Knows his literature. If you need help best to go to office hours rather than email, especially near end of semester otherwise you won't hear back.

Professor Vela strives for his students to be able to write at college level. He is not an easy A (unlike some other ENG 122 classes). There is a lot of reading and a lot of drafting. I encourage you to spend time with him during office hours - IT IS WORTH IT. But overall the class isn't that hard, just takes a lot of time to read and draft.

Great professor. Tends to lecture into literature things that are not relevant to creative writing, but overall this professor is worth it. Wants to see his students succeed. Take him. However, only con I had was that he does not always email you back, so if it is important use office hours if you expect a response

Took this class wanting to learn how to become a better writer. He does not use the standard books to explain the literary elements. His books did not help me at all, that's the only negative thing I have to say. Great teacher in the aspect of motivating his students and inspiring them. Gives you great models to read, focusesonpoetry/shrtstry/drama

Yes, this class is undoubtedly difficult, but I would 11/10 take his class again. Prof. Vela's lectures are so insightful, and he gets you to critically think about how and why ethnic terrorism exists in our world today. Use his feedback to improve and elongate your essays!!! He's so supportive, and you'll eventually get used to the workload.

He is the one of greatest professor I have even met. He is interested in history, which makes the writing class much fun. We could thinking widely with the history, and the more you read the history books, the more we like to know more then get easier to write our paper. I liked his class lots.

Take his class. Be prepared to work. You will be expected to read and to follow the news. This is great if you actually are interested in Politics and the World. HIs 126 class borders on a Poli Sci class, so if you're a poli sci major, you'll like it. He's also really cool to talk to outside of class. Has great perspectives.