2.5

Debra Cumberland

English - Winona State University

2.5
Quality
3.6
Difficulty
30%
Would Retake
168
Reviews
2.5
Quality
3.6
Difficulty
2.5
Helpful
2.6
Clarity

30%

Would Retake

168

Reviews

Rating Distribution
Official

5

34

4

20

3

22

2

36

1

56

What Students Say

She expects way too much from her students

ENG111 - 2.0 rating

I was forced to withdraw from the class due to her harsh grading and attendance policy

ENG111 - 2.0 rating
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

93%

Textbook Required

67%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

B

95% confidence
Based on 37 grades
Most common grades:
B (13)
A (10)
C (6)
Grade Distribution
A(12)B(16)C(7)D(6)F(0)A-/B+(1)
Based on 51 reported grades
B: 13
A: 10
C: 6
Drop/Withdrawal: 5
Common Tags
Get ready to read (21)
Tough grader (15)
Beware of pop quizzes (11)
Skip class? You won't pass. (9)
Tough Grader (8)
BEWARE OF POP QUIZZES (8)
Participation matters (7)
Lecture heavy (7)
Rating Trend

Declining

-0.33 avg change
Oct
Dec
Jan
Mar
May
Dec
Last 6 months
Ratings by Course

ENGLISH310

5.0

(2)

MONSTROUSVICT

5.0

(1)

ENGLI210

5.0

(1)

ENG311

5.0

(1)

ENG305

5.0

(1)
+26 more courses
Difficulty by Course

ENG211

5.0

ENGXXX

4.5

ENGLISH111

4.2

ENG

4.2

222

4.0

Reviews (168)
5.0
3.0
ENG111
Apr 3, 2003

overall a good teacher, you learn a lot from her, she's very smart and really encourages you to share. if you do your work and participate you can get an A easily

2.0
5.0
ENG111
Apr 24, 2003

First you have a total of 15 papers for the semester. Plus she expects you to write like a NYT Bestseller. Then you have to submit a piece to get published. Worst teacher I have EVER had.

2.0
2.0
ENGLISH
Oct 27, 2003

what a stupid ****

3.0
4.0
ENG310
Nov 17, 2003

had her for storywriting. There was something pointless due EVERY PERIOD. Her voice is just simply annoying and her sense of humor is seriously skewed. I am not saying this out of vengeance.. I got a B. I would never take her again.

1.0
5.0
ENGLISH111
Nov 29, 2003

She is totally evil, extremely sexest, picks favorites. Can't read her writing on the board and comments on our papers. She is very boring to listen to and her assigned activities outside of class are pointless. Her expectations are way too high.

4.0
2.0
ENG111
Dec 5, 2003

A good teacher. She expalins what she expects and as long as you get it finished there is no problems. She does have high expectations and there is a lot of writting to do but she gives you enough time to finish it. Only complaint is her handwritting.

1.0
3.0
ENGLISH11
Dec 11, 2003

No Comments

2.0
4.0
ENG111
Feb 4, 2004

No Comments

2.0
3.0
ENG327
Feb 6, 2004

I've her for Bram to Buffy--she has a weird yet somehow interesting sense of humor, but she gives pointless assignments; she is unclear and moves way to fast; and she has the most gawd-awful handwriting and board writing! I will avoid her in the future.

2.0
5.0
ENG111
Feb 8, 2004

95% of the time that I spent on the class was a total waste of time and almost all of the assignments had no point whatsoever.

2.0
5.0
ENG111
Feb 9, 2004

Huge amounts of homework. Grades like you are a graduate from college. Expect to dedicate the whole semester to this class with this professor. Try to avoid if you can.

1.0
3.0
ENG111
Mar 1, 2004

No Comments

1.0
4.0
ENG111
Mar 16, 2004

Aviod if possible, gives assignments with very vague points. The work load is insane, and has expectations from you that would be difficult to maintain as a senior. Did not learn much from this class.

5.0
1.0
ENG327
Mar 21, 2004

Ms. Cumberland has the most delightful sense of humor of any of the English teachers I have yet encountered at Winona. She is like a breath of fresh air in a department full of pretentious, annoying, boring and ultimate lousy writers.

5.0
1.0
111
Mar 22, 2004

Ms. Cumberland is one of the most challenging teachers I have had so far. She demands a lot of you and that's for one good reason: she expects the best out of you. I can think of no better recommendation for a teacher.

4.0
4.0
ENG101
Mar 23, 2004

I learned alot from her.

5.0
4.0
ENG327
Mar 23, 2004

She's a fabulous professor. I think she's really cool!

2.0
4.0
ENG
Mar 25, 2004

this "teacher" really seemed to play favorites in this class. it seemed as though if you were not an english major you could not get a good grade in this class. way to much work, plus she is crazy.

4.0
3.0
STORYWRIT
Mar 31, 2004

Cumberland is a demanding prof, but fun. she has a quirky sense of humor and really challenges you to learn.

5.0
3.0
ENG111
Apr 4, 2004

She's fab!

5.0
4.0
ENG111
Apr 8, 2004

I LOVED her and this class! She is demanding; however, it is worth it because you learn so much and the class is a blast! She is my fave. teacher yet!

1.0
5.0
ENG310
Apr 16, 2004

you know all that talk about not trying to write a story she will like... BULLSHIT

5.0
2.0
ENG310
Apr 21, 2004

This was a *great* class. Ms. Cumberland is very creative and interesting, and I really learned a lot from her. I'd take a class from her again in a minute! :-)

5.0
3.0
ENG310
Apr 21, 2004

I love her sense of humor. It makes me want to pay attention. She expects a lot from students. I think that's really good.

5.0
2.0
111
Apr 21, 2004

Great teacher! She's fun and really cares about her students. And I learned a lot.

5.0
3.0
ENG310
Apr 22, 2004

Great teacher! Lots of fun, knows her stuff

5.0
4.0
ENG111
Apr 23, 2004

Very helpful, friendly & fair. Provided thoughtful & useful responses to papers. Made me work hard, but I could tell my writing was improving.

5.0
2.0
ENG310
May 3, 2004

I went in thinking this professor was hard but found I was wrong! She really cares about her students. I got alot of good help from my writing. Maybe I will be a famous writer some day, because of Dr. Cumberland!

1.0
4.0
ENG310
Jul 7, 2004

Might be a professor, but does not mean she knows how to teach. Has problems showing up for Writer Confrences then will blame you not having the conference. She is LOUD as well as SHRILL. Do not take this class if you want to be a writer.

1.0
4.0
ENG111
Jul 18, 2004

From her fake accent to the way she carries herself in class, I hated this teacher. If you can actually write inteligently be careful or she will accuse you of plagiarism, like she did to me and the guy who sat next to me.(we laughed at her for that)

5.0
4.0
ENG111
Aug 17, 2004

she was very helpful. her class has a lot of work, but you learn a lot. she helps you if you need it on your essays. even though the work sucks you really do come out a better writer.

3.0
4.0
101
Aug 18, 2004

OH man, this lady needs a TV!! She does talk funny, and sometimes she just does funny stuff. But the class was a lot of work and hard at times. She has a great syllabus to follow EVERY DAY and that was nice. Only have 3 major essays, not bad!

3.0
3.0
101
Aug 21, 2004

WORST TEACHER I'VE EVER HAD. NEVER WRITE INTELIGENTLY BECAUSE SHE THINKS YOU'RE STEALING YOUR MATERIAL FROM A REAL WRITER. SHE THINKS SHE'S THE BEST PROF AROUND, VERY ARROGANT.

5.0
1.0
ENG310
Aug 25, 2004

Very helpful and interesting! She always gave good feedback on my papers, and I feel like I really learnd a lot in her class. Knows her stuff, too, and seems to really care about her students.

5.0
3.0
ENG310
Aug 27, 2004

Excellent professor!She really cares about her students and encourages them to do their best. Wonderful sense of humor and great personality.

4.0
4.0
ENG111
Nov 2, 2004

From the crazy fake accent to her blanket wrap.. she's still a good prof and I've learned a lot. You just need to be motivated and work hard to get stuff out of the class.

3.0
5.0
ENG310
Nov 20, 2004

Grading seems to be based on favoritism. Several people who threw everything together at the last minute got A's while several dilligent (but disagreeable) students got B's and a C. Might be a good class if youre considering writing as a career, because after this class you'll change your mind.

5.0
2.0
ENG111
Grade: A
Dec 1, 2004

i liked her (after i got through her piles of papers and reports, looked back at all the work and realized how much i've learned). Again - lots of tedious work( we had more assignments for her section of ENG 111 than most other professors have) But i am happy with an 'A'!

2.0
3.0
ENG111
Dec 6, 2004

Others here are correct, she is a real piece of work! Her fake accent and CONSTANT head nodding during presentations are enough to drive you nuts. The class workload is also HUGE so stay on top and get things done. I thought her grading was honest though and I did learn a lot.

2.0
3.0
ENG111
Dec 6, 2004

I feel she is EVIL... Actually she is a hard prof and tends to bob her head a lot. Her strange accent makes her lack of facial expression hard to handle. She tends to be confusing if you ask her a question.

2.0
3.0
ENG304314
Dec 14, 2004

horrible- VERY unclear with what she expects (my grade suffered because of it). i DEFINITLY do not recommend taking anything with her.. i know i will avoid her at all costs in the future.

2.0
3.0
ENG
Dec 14, 2004

She is crappy and mean. She talks down to students. I couldn't stand her voice, either.

4.0
3.0
327INDSTUDY
Dec 28, 2004

Dr. Cumberland is a bit of an oddball, but she knows what she's talking about and she's fair about grading. She does show some favoritism, like any professor. If you seek help from her, she will give it to you. There is no reason to get a low grade from the woman. Moderate work and ask for help.

2.0
5.0
ENGLISH
Jan 15, 2005

She gives an unbelievable amount of work. Look forward to writing 35 papers if you are taking her writing class. You will learn something, but she grades by favoritism and is occasionally pretty annoying.

3.0
4.0
ENG111
Jan 17, 2005

Her accent willm drive you crazy, along with her laugh and her ridiculous blankets- that she wears as a coat or somethin. Her class is hard, but if you keep uo its fine. I think she tends to grade more towards favoritism, also if you can share a book,do it cause you dont use all 3 all the time.

5.0
4.0
ENG304
Mar 2, 2005

Seems to take her job seriously, and it is refected in the amount learned. As has been said by others she can be tough but if you keep up with the reading, it is not a hard class.

2.0
4.0
ENG222
Mar 7, 2005

No Comments

2.0
4.0
ENG304
Apr 1, 2005

There is something very sketchy about her grading technique. Her lectures are actually quite good. She is clear and willing to let students talk, but it appears that she grades based on how closely your thoughts mimic hers. Warning: she can be outrageously annoying too.

1.0
4.0
STORYWRITING
Apr 12, 2005

She is a nice person... Not a good Prof though. She shows intense favoritism. She assigns work that doesn't improve your writing at all. I wrote a story that was good, met the standards and got a poor grade due to the fact she didn't understand it and it "lacked conflict".

5.0
2.0
ENG111
Apr 15, 2005

Interesting prof. Very flighty, she's nice, plays some favorites, but overall, very willing to work with you. YOU JUST HAVE TO ASK.

2.0
3.0
ENG101
Apr 16, 2005

Could not stand her

1.0
4.0
ENG310
Apr 17, 2005

One of the WORST teachers I HAVE EVER HAD! DO NOT TAKE WITH HER! She plays favorites(seems to Hate Guys), Is unclear in what she wants, and when you do what she wants it's not good enough. She grades unfavorably if she dislikes you. I say again: DO NOT TAKE THIS CLASS WITH CUMBERLAND!

2.0
3.0
ENG222
May 10, 2005

This woman is on a power trip. Treats students unfairly and is extrememly flighty. She plays favorites and snubs others. Avoid at all costs!!!

1.0
5.0
ENG
May 11, 2005

Guess she can dish it, but she can't take it...won't let you give an opinion under her name. TOTAL BEETCH...plays favorites and rude to others. KEEP AWAY!!!

1.0
5.0
ENG111
Jun 2, 2005

No Comments

5.0
3.0
ENGLISH310
Jun 19, 2005

only hard if you don't do the work. I found her fair and helpful.

5.0
3.0
ENGLISH111
Jun 19, 2005

liked the class and didn't think it was that hard.

5.0
3.0
ENGLISH310
Sep 21, 2005

loved the class! I think she's cool.

4.0
4.0
ENG222
Sep 29, 2005

Some students in this class were annoying. She handled them OK. She makes us work, but she is a good professor.

4.0
1.0
ENG120
Nov 29, 2005

Crazy but highly amusing. She understood that ENG 120 is an entry-level class and graded accordingly. Be sure to ask for specific expectations on various homework assignments; she tends to be vague.

4.0
1.0
VICTORIANLIT
Dec 1, 2005

yes she can be flighty, but she's very sweet. loves when you contribute to class, have opinions, and she enjoys when you can crack a couple jokes. ^_^

1.0
3.0
ENG111
Dec 2, 2005

She is pretty bad. If you ask her a question- she will either brush you off or look at you like you're dumb. She plays favorites in the class, and gave out a lot of Ds on peoples papers. She moves really fast, is really weird, really conceted, and im pretty sure her accent is fake

5.0
2.0
MONSTROUSVICT
Dec 5, 2005

Very annoying voice; doesn't give much helpful feedback on papers; good choice in literature, though. Don't get caught screwing around on your laptop, or she'll hate you forever.

5.0
4.0
ENG111
Dec 15, 2005

If you want to think, she's for you. Expect to work. Isn't that the point?

3.0
5.0
ENG
Jan 21, 2006

No Comments

1.0
4.0
ENG222
Mar 24, 2006

B*TCH...She is awful. Take this class with ANYONE but her

1.0
5.0
ENG111
Apr 19, 2006

Yep she's a witch... she is very condescending, makes you feel stupid if you have a question.. I know many who did not do very well in her class... Ugggh.. her name sends chills down my spine!!!

1.0
5.0
ENG111
May 1, 2006

wow worse professor ever!! DO NOT TAKE HER!!!!!!!! she totally plays favorites, and if something isnt done exactly her way she will fail you for that, she isnt very helpful at all. if you ask her a question she gives you a totally different answer that doesnt relate to your question at all.

1.0
3.0
ENGLISH111
May 2, 2006

Absolutely ****ing retarded... She's horrible teacher and ended up failing 1/2 of the class due to unclear instructions on the final portfolio. She was very unhelpful she claimed was more than happy to talk about assignments when I talked to her she was rude to me and made me feel akward and stupid. She treats students like idiots. HORRIBLE ACCENT

5.0
2.0
ENGLI210
Nov 15, 2006

Cumberland is an AMAZING professor. Definetly the best I've had yet at WSU. She loves her job, loves her students, and is willing to have fun in class. A lot of writing, but if you like english, Cumberland is definetly the prof. to take!

1.0
3.0
ENG111
Dec 6, 2006

This class was stressful and a confusing waste of my time. I understand what we are required to take an english class but you are not required to take it with her...DO Not Take This Professor! She Loves To hear herself talk!

2.0
3.0
ENG111
Dec 8, 2006

She gives you no indication on how your doing in the class and she plays favorites.

1.0
5.0
ENG111
Dec 11, 2006

She's a total ****! do not take her, she's terrible

1.0
3.0
ENG111
Dec 12, 2006

This is by far the worst teacher in Winona State. I hate her and will never be in a class with her again. She never gives full directions and fails almost everyone in her class. I think the highest grade was a c+. DONT TAKE HER!

1.0
5.0
ENG222
Dec 13, 2006

total b*tch, plays favorites, most annoyng voice ever...

1.0
5.0
ENG111
Dec 14, 2006

She is the worst prof ever.. she doesn't let you know how your doing throughout the class. She is very rude to you when you ask her questions and she has her favorites. Plus she is very very strange

4.0
3.0
ENG111
Jan 5, 2007

She's actually very nice and helpful. Good class.

1.0
5.0
ENG120
Mar 31, 2007

This is a 100 level class. She treats it like a 300 and she is not clear as to what we are suppose to do with anything-presentations, papers, etc. All we do is analyze, seriously, lets get a little more creative please! I would not suggest taking her, despite how much you may love Bronte (much like myself). I will never take a class of hers again.

4.0
2.0
ENG210
Apr 18, 2007

Good professor. I would recommend taking her whenever possible. You will do a lot of reading...and even some writing. If you aren't happy about that...maybe you shouldn't be in an english class then. She can be a bit disorganized at times, but she makes up for it and is flexible. She loves what she is teaching. She can be funny at times, too.

1.0
3.0
LIT120
Apr 21, 2007

extremley vague, plays favorites and picky.

5.0
3.0
ENG120
Apr 24, 2007

I enjoyed the class. Learned a lot

3.0
2.0
ENG120
Apr 26, 2007

Make sure she likes you or will probably fail her class. Participate in discussion, doesnt matter if your right, she will like you if you give input. Very unclear about assignments, but go to her office and ask, she will like you even more.

1.0
4.0
ENG222
Jul 9, 2007

Prof ****berland grades strongly upon what she thinks of you on an idividual basis vs. the quality of your work. She attempts to overload students as much as possible. Extremely self-centered, disrespectful and very unwilling to be accepting that students have obligations other than her class. she is very weird to put it politely.

1.0
4.0
ENG111
Oct 29, 2007

Worthless class. Do not take. I know english, she is horrible. Very snoby attitude. She likes you or hates you, most commonly the later.. She gave poor grades when "no apparent revision was evident" even after paper was overhauled..then when paper was left the same she "saw great improvement" ... class was a nightmare. Avoid at all costs. trust me

4.0
5.0
ENG211
Nov 22, 2007

If you think you'd like to learn from doing long papers and a long revision process, then take the class. It's useful if that's what you want. If you're looking for an easy A, STEER CLEAR. You will learn a lot, but you must be at every class and participate to get her to like you. If you get on her bad side, your grade will probably reflect it.

2.0
4.0
ENG111
Dec 9, 2007

it is hard to do the work if she doesn't tell you what it is before you leave. she is not fair at all don't take her!

1.0
5.0
ENG111
Apr 3, 2008

Make sure you get on her good side right away. Plays favorites hard core. Doesn't explain exactly what she wants on assignments. All around bad professor. Doesn't grade fairly.

3.0
3.0
ENG111
Oct 30, 2008

some days she'll give you time to go to the library and do the research you need to for all the papers you write. but that's the only up side. lots of pop quizzes

2.0
3.0
ENG310
Nov 9, 2008

She plays favorites. We did very little in-class writing for a writing class, and there was no way to know how well you were doing. She doesn't respect students; She was almost always late to class. Her comments on my work showed a lack of understanding. This was the worst experience I?ve had at WSU, though she might be better for non-fiction.

2.0
4.0
ENG111
Nov 11, 2008

She thinks she is "clear" with instructions, while the majority of the class remains confused. Makes student feel stupid if they want to ask questions (and rarely gives an answer).

1.0
5.0
ENG111
Nov 19, 2008

She doesnt clarify what she wants you to have in your paper until after you turn it in. She also tells you to check the book 9/10 times because she wont answer your question. This class is terrible, with the two books that you read and the 3 ten page papers you do on the same subject. First paper is the pros point of view second paper is the cons,

3.0
5.0
ENG111
Dec 15, 2008

She is a tough grader who seems to get angry when someone asks a question. I do not recomend her unless you are an outstanding writer.

1.0
5.0
ENGXXX
Feb 27, 2009

This teacher is AWFUL, AWFUL, AWFUL. I am a writing major, and her story writing class was absolutely worthless. She didn't like that I disagreed with her critique, even though the rest of the class disagreed as well. She hated me from day one and treated me like a problem child. DO NOT TAKE HER UNLESS YOU ARE A SUCK UP.

2.0
4.0
ENGXXX
May 4, 2009

I loathe this professor. The second half of the semester was spent solving questions from the board: no grade or review afterwards. I am an annoying active participator and she still didn't like me. She's conceited and definitely looks down upon her students. I can't respect her for being so discourteous, untimely and petty. Avoid her at all costs!

5.0
3.0
ENG222
Jun 9, 2011

She is a very good professor. Tough with a lot of work but will explain things. Funny.

5.0
3.0
ENG111
Jun 10, 2011

Mandatory class, but she made it fun. A lot of writing and some things were confusing. Explained things when you asked questions. A really good professor

5.0
4.0
ENG311
Jun 22, 2011

A great prof if you want to learn and work hard. She made cookies for us on workshop days. Yum. Gave good feedback so you really learned how to write. Kind and caring. Really there for you if you need it.

5.0
3.0
ENG305
Mar 25, 2013

Dr. Cumberland is an amazing Professor - Extremely kind, compassionate, and helpful. This is a 300 level class, and as a writing major, she expects 300 level work. The paper may have been difficult; however, I have a solid paper to place in my portfolio upon graduation. Highly recommend for upper level classes.

3.0
5.0
ENG111
Apr 2, 2013

Not a fan of this class. She is a nice lady, but you better make sure to do every assignment or you automatically fail the course. Lots of pop quizzes so make sure you read. Do not recommend.

2.0
4.0
ENG111
Nov 23, 2013

English is hard for me, and I found that she just made it harder. I ended up dropping the class. You have to go everyday if you really wanna pass, do ALL of the reading, be perfect on your papers, etc. Doesn't give clear guidance, just refers to the book. If english is an easy class for you, take her. If it's not, don't take her.

3.0
3.0
ENG222
Dec 5, 2013

She's a hard grader, very specific, but if you're good with English she's fair. Do the work and reading. She's very specific on quizzes so do the reading and catch the details.

2.0
5.0
ENGLISH111
Dec 7, 2013

You only write 2 essays throughout the class, which she offers no help on in class. Workshop groups are what you would expect: everyone just wants to leave class. She was unclear on multiple assignments, leading to poor grades for most people in the class. Make sure (if you take her) that you write essays to appeal to her views, bias is heavy

2.0
4.0
ENG222
Dec 19, 2013

If your majoring in writing this is a good class to challenge yourself. If your taking it as a general, I would suggest looking for a different class. She grades essays very tough, and really only cares about showing versus telling. I would not take her if you can.

1.0
3.0
ENG312
May 5, 2014

If you don't do things her way,with her ideas,or on her timetable(nothing early)she will doc you points. If she decides she doesn't like you,you disagree with anything she says,or point out something she missed,she will not give you a good grade. She teaches and grades like a middle school english teacher.

1.0
3.0
ENG309
Grade: Not_Sure_Yet
May 5, 2014

she will decide on the first day what grade you are getting. Had other professors review my work to be certain it wasn't just me and was told I was doing A+ work. Only received Cs. She will not work with you if she doesn't like you. Teaches and grades like a middle school english teacher.

3.0
4.0
ENG111
Nov 17, 2014

Couple 7-10 page papers and daily readingquizes

4.0
4.0
111
Nov 21, 2014

She knows her stuff. Assignments are written out and if you follow them you do great. She makes you work for your grade. Easy to talk with in office hours. Funny too.

4.0
3.0
222
Mar 12, 2015

I really enjoyed Creative writing with Dr. Cumberland. At the beginning of the year I thought she was a little nuts, but I ended up really enjoying her course. She doesn't assign a lot of reading, but be prepared for pop quizzes. There are no tests in the class. She is a tough grader, but if you try hard and show creativity you will do just fine.

1.0
5.0
111
Mar 17, 2015

She is condescending and not helpful. Bans all electronics. Teachs like you are 3 years old. AVOID

5.0
4.0
ENG111
Apr 23, 2015

Dr. Cumberland is a wonderful professor. She may be hard, but she really wants her students to learn. If you go in during office hours and ask for critiques she will gladly give them to you, and is very helpful. As long as you pay attention, bring your textbook, and do your work, you'll do just fine.

1.0
5.0
ENGLISH111
Grade: Drop/Withdrawal
May 5, 2015

I have never had so many tears in one class my whole life. This is a basic level English class so I don't understand why Cumberland thinks that my whole life revolves around her class. I have never been so ignored or disrespected by a professor. Forced to drop class at the end of the semester due to the attendance policy.

1.0
5.0
ENG111
May 5, 2015

so rude. i would never recommend this class to anyone.

2.0
5.0
ENG111
Grade: Drop/Withdrawal
Nov 2, 2015

I was forced to withdraw from the class due to her harsh grading and attendance policy. I do NOT recommend taking this class with Debra as your teacher. She is rude and expects you to revolve your entire life around her even though it is only an Eng 111 course.

2.0
3.0
ENG111
Nov 9, 2015

She goes on and on about unimportant topics that were already taught in high school. It is EXACTLY like a regular high school english class. Her grading is so tough and unfair that she has a 24 hour rule that you cannot contact her after an assignment being returned because of how many complaints she receives. Avoid this class!

3.0
5.0
ENG111
Grade: B
Dec 13, 2015

I tried in this class but she was always so disrespectful. I know I'm not a great writer but it would be nice to be treated as a person. Awful at grading and would never take her again.

2.0
5.0
ENG111
Grade: B
Feb 23, 2016

She expects way too much from her students. She grades like a 300 level class and not a 100 level college intro class. STAY AWAY

3.0
4.0
ENG111
Grade: Not sure yet
Mar 16, 2016

As a person, Dr. Cumberland has a great attitude towards her teaching. Her lectures occasionally drag on due to her going over things that we should have learned in HS. She is also a very tough grader for only being a 100 level class.

2.0
5.0
ENG111
Grade: Rather not say
Apr 28, 2016

This professors approach is very intense and rude.

4.0
3.0
ENG222
Grade: A
Oct 13, 2016
Would take again

Dr. Cumberland is a great professor. She really enjoys her work. There are several papers but she makes them fun and keeps you interested. She wants her students to succeed.

Gives good feedback
Skip class? You won't pass.
Caring
2.0
4.0
ENG111
Grade: B-
Nov 2, 2016
Wouldn't take again

tough grader. if she doesn't like you, you'll know

Tough Grader
Skip class? You won't pass.
LECTURE HEAVY
1.0
5.0
ENG111
Grade: B
Nov 9, 2016
Wouldn't take again

Really terrible teacher. Would not recommend.

Get ready to read
LOTS OF HOMEWORK
SO MANY PAPERS
3.0
4.0
ENG111
Grade: A
Nov 16, 2016
Would take again

Professor Cumberland is a really nice person. However, she is a really tough grader. We often did busy work in class, but she did let us leave early a lot too. There are occasional pop quizzes, so do the readings. This class also had a lot more writing assignments than the other sections of English 111. All in all though, she is a good professor.

Tough Grader
Get ready to read
BEWARE OF POP QUIZZES
1.0
4.0
ENG111
Grade: Drop/Withdrawal
Nov 18, 2016
Wouldn't take again

Dr. Cumberland cares about her students, but has very high expectations. She is a very harsh grader, and expects you to do better than what should be expected of a 100 level course. Lots of reading involved, and very inconsistent on when she will be giving a quiz on the readings that are assigned. Definitely would NOT RECOMMEND.

Tough Grader
Get ready to read
LECTURE HEAVY
1.0
5.0
ENG111
Grade: Not sure yet
Nov 29, 2016
Wouldn't take again

Had to take to get into college of business and pass with a C. Hardest professor I have had by far. I am riding on the line of a C and D with roughly a week left. She inst helpful and could care less about you as a person. Refers you to the book and online sources. She is tough and prepare for at least a pop quiz a week and about 5-7 essays.

Tough Grader
BEWARE OF POP QUIZZES
SO MANY PAPERS
2.0
4.0
ENG111
Grade: B
Nov 30, 2016
Wouldn't take again

You have to write a lot of papers. Some are small 2-4 page assignments but you have to do those during the same time you write big essays. She had a pop quiz after every reading assignment. She's not the worst teacher ever but she can make you feel stupid.

Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
BEWARE OF POP QUIZZES
2.0
4.0
ENG111
Grade: C+
Dec 1, 2016
Wouldn't take again

Lot of busy work, so be ready to come to class and have a million things to do that doesn't relate to what she is teaching. She assigns a million assignments at once so be ready to be stressed out. Very tough grader, and she will never give you 100% on anything besides quizzes. Good luck!

Tough Grader
Skip class? You won't pass.
BEWARE OF POP QUIZZES
5.0
1.0
ENG101
Grade: B-
Mar 1, 2017
Wouldn't take again

Absolutely terrible teacher. If you don't agree with her on one thing in the class she will lower your grade! Biased as them come, AVOID at all costs.

Tough Grader
Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
1.0
5.0
ENG111
Grade: B-
Apr 3, 2017
Wouldn't take again

Don't take. Really strict and biased person. Wasn't a fun class at all!

Tough Grader
Get ready to read
LOTS OF HOMEWORK
4.0
4.0
ENG222
Apr 3, 2017
Would take again

Dr Cumberland is quirky but very nice. I have her for Creative Writing, so maybe it's different than the ENG111 courses, but I've been very pleased with her. She always offers good feedback, and she's been very understanding of some emergencies I've had during the semester. All in all, I really like her!

Tough Grader
Gives good feedback
Caring
2.0
5.0
ENG111
Grade: C
Jul 18, 2017
Wouldn't take again

The lectures given by this professor are never ending and are the definition of boredom. Couldn't stand her teaching style and her bluntness demeanor towards students that she obviously didn't respect.

BEWARE OF POP QUIZZES
SO MANY PAPERS
LECTURE HEAVY
1.0
5.0
ENG120
Oct 26, 2017
Wouldn't take again

One of the worst teachers I've been lucky to have. Seriously, avoid Dr. Cumberland to make your life a better and happier place.

Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
LOTS OF HOMEWORK
1.0
5.0
ENG111
Grade: C
Nov 6, 2017
Wouldn't take again

Honestly one of the poorest teachers I've ever encountered. If she doesn't like you, you'll know based on your grades.

Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
SO MANY PAPERS
4.0
2.0
ENG111
Nov 15, 2017
Would take again

Her class was pretty easy because she just follows her syllabus. She's nice and straightforward. I'd recommend her for College Reading and Writing.

Get ready to read
BEWARE OF POP QUIZZES
Clear grading criteria
5.0
2.0
ENG222
Grade: A+
Dec 8, 2017
Would take again

Dr. Cumberland is an amazing professor. She gets so much heat just because she actually expects you to try. Just go to class, pay attention, and participate. She appreciates it when people care, it's not that hard. The class is fun and I learn so much from her. This is my second time taking her classes and she is great. Just be a good student.

Clear grading criteria
Amazing lectures
Caring
5.0
3.0
ENG309
Grade: B
Feb 20, 2018
Would take again

If you don't feel comfortable with a paper, she will give you an extension. If you do the readings, you'll pass the quizzes. She expects you to try (makes sense since we aren't in high school anymore). You could really learn a lot from her if you pay attention.

ACCESSIBLE OUTSIDE CLASS
Clear grading criteria
Caring
1.0
3.0
ENG111
Dec 4, 2018
Wouldn't take again

Dr. Cumberland's class was one that was extremely not enjoyable. She lets her own opinions in when it comes to grading papers, so be careful not to pick a topic she will have opposite views on, because she will fail you on it. She is well prepared when it comes to her classes, always ready, but is very unapproachable in office hours.

Participation matters
BEWARE OF POP QUIZZES
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
5.0
3.0
ENG111
Grade: B
Dec 5, 2018
Would take again

Dr. Cumberland comes off as a hard professor for the first month or so but she has a very clear syllabus that lays out every test and assignment for the entire semester in clear detail. There are a handful of essays you have to write but she gives you plenty of time to complete them. By far one of my favorite professors.

Gives good feedback
BEWARE OF POP QUIZZES
Clear grading criteria
1.0
3.0
ENG101
Grade: B
Aug 16, 2019
Wouldn't take again

AVOID at all costs. Dr. Cumberland really ruined the concept of college for me. I had her my very first semester, leading me to dread class and leave a negative connotation of Winona State University in my mouth. Be VERY careful what subjects you talk about and discuss.

Skip class? You won't pass.
Beware of pop quizzes
Lecture heavy
1.0
3.0
ENG222
Grade: A
Nov 2, 2019
Wouldn't take again

Its been said before and itll be said again, you will know if she likes you based on grading. I wouldnt call her a professor, more of a bully wielding what little power she has. Be prepared to kiss up if you want to pass, but youll still be made to feel dumb because not everyone could possibly be as smart as her with her degree in English.

Participation matters
1.0
4.0
ENG222
Grade: B
Nov 8, 2019
Wouldn't take again

She is one of the worst professors I have ever had. Her grading is ridiculous and she only grades things good if she likes the topic you write about. This is supposed to be a creative writing class but there is nothing creative about it. She sets too many restrictions on the assignments. Her voice is annoying and she can be very rude.

Get ready to read
Tough grader
1.0
4.0
ENG222
Grade: B
Nov 10, 2019
Wouldn't take again

I changed my major because of Ms. Cumberland. She really knows how to ruin the mood and impose her beliefs in the classroom. I recommend any other English professor at WSU as they can not be as bad as her.

Beware of pop quizzes
So many papers
Tough grader
1.0
5.0
ENG211
Jan 31, 2020
Wouldn't take again

This professor was unreasonably mean. She will verbally attack students in front of their peers and that makes everyone feel uncomfortable. If your work is not exactly how she would like it to be you will not do well in this class. 12/10 do not recommend unless you're ready to cry in front of your classmates :)

2.0
4.0
ENG111
Grade: B+
Apr 22, 2020
Wouldn't take again

Dr. Cumberland is a nice lady but her lectures are very long and it is hard to stay focused, they are boring. There were a few quizzes but they weren't bad. Lots of paper and lengthy ones too. We never read a book like many other classes. If you are a good writer but not a good reader she may be a good option. She cares about her students

Participation matters
Caring
So many papers
3.0
3.0
ENG111
Dec 29, 2021
Wouldn't take again

She was decent as a professor, would give mediocre feedback but if you ask her shed go into more detail. The tests werent terribly hard but you really had to be extremely specific or you wouldnt get credit. Rarely responded to emails. Not trying to be super rude but her voice is like Mickey Mouse. Not a terrible class.

Gives good feedback
4.0
3.0
ENG222
Grade: A+
Jan 9, 2022
Would take again

Dr Cumberland is very gifted and likes to engage her class. It was a tough semester for her, her dad passed and she took one day off, and then jumped back on our schedule. She is kind and was always available. If you don't try, she'll know it and you will earn the grade you deserve. If you work hard and do what is asked, you'll succeed. Solid!

Participation matters
Skip class? You won't pass.
Group projects
1.0
5.0
111
Grade: Not sure yet
Apr 8, 2022

She is awful. Not nice.

Tough grader
Beware of pop quizzes
So many papers
4.0
4.0
ENG368
Grade: Not sure yet
Apr 30, 2022
Would take again

Dr. Cumberland is a very sweet and caring professor. This is the second time I've taken one of her classes, and she genuinely enjoys what she does and wants her students to succeed. The only things she grades are the midterm, final, and two papers, so doing your work is encouraged because there isn't much room to make up for bad grades.

Tough grader
Get ready to read
Graded by few things
2.0
1.0
111
Grade: B
May 3, 2022

Do not take this class. Cumberland is a harsh grader with little to no accommodation/leniency. She docked me a whole letter grade on a paper I had to turn in late because I wasn't even IN THE CLASS YET. You have to write these papers exactly the way she wants you to, otherwise, prepare for Cs. I repeat DO NOT TAKE THIS CLASS!!

Tough grader
Lecture heavy
3.0
2.0
ENG310
Grade: A
May 5, 2022
Would take again

Dr. Cumberland is a very average professor. She grades easily but gives little feedback and doesn't explain why she docks points. Some assignments seem very unnecessary, require extra work outside class, and are worth very little points. She struggles with remembering names. She is very enthusiastic. Would take her again, but wouldn't seek her out.

Get ready to read
Clear grading criteria
1.0
5.0
ENG210
Grade: D
Jan 13, 2023

This professor is awful. I wouldn't recommend taking her class.

Get ready to read
Participation matters
Lots of homework
1.0
4.0
111
Grade: A
Feb 22, 2023

Dr. Cumberland is very blunt and does not help her students very much at all. Regardless of what is asked to her outside of class she refuses to help the student directly and tells them to look in the textbook, which is hard to navigate aswell. She has a very uptight attitude and expects a lot from each student, don't take this class.

Tough grader
Beware of pop quizzes
Graded by few things
2.0
3.0
ENG111
Grade: C
Apr 30, 2023

Class is incredibly boring, the whole class is basically a review of what we learned in grade school. However she is an extremely harsh grader and seem bias towards students she likes. Don't recommend taking her class if you can help it.

Tough grader
Get ready to read
So many papers
1.0
4.0
ENG
Grade: C
Dec 5, 2023

I took English 250- grammar with Dr. Cumberland and she gave out 3 tests, a final paper, and a few workbook assignments. This class is not for you if you if you don't like lectures. Do the workbook assignments and know everything bc the tests are hard!! Overall, I would not take her class again bc I didn't like her teaching style.

Lecture heavy
Test heavy
Graded by few things
4.0
3.0
ENG222
Grade: B
Dec 5, 2023
Would take again

Professor Cumberland is a sweet lady and was always open and helpful when questions were asked. It is a creative writing class so there were many papers (as expected). She is on the tougher side when grading, just make sure you appropriately hit the criteria and aren't cliche in your writing and you will do good! Assigned readings in the textbook.

Tough grader
So many papers
Caring
3.0
2.0
ENG309
Grade: A
Dec 9, 2023
Would take again

Dr. Cumberland is very well-versed in creative nonfiction, and she showed that knowledge through this class. Each class felt repetitive, especially when we read an essay and discussed in the next day, and the three essays you write are stacked closely together. If you participate, you'll do just fine. Not the best, but not the worst choice either.

Get ready to read
So many papers
Accessible outside class
3.0
3.0
ENG111
Grade: A
Jan 4, 2024
Would take again

When say says something will be on the test, it /will/ be on the test. You really need to review your terms because chances are you'll be writing 3-5 sentences about them on tests. Honestly, if you study and do the work, this class is really easy. COPY everything, INCLUDING examples on the board, because she usually wants examples on tests too.

Get ready to read
Beware of pop quizzes
So many papers
2.0
4.0
ENG222
Grade: B
Mar 27, 2024

She's a nice person but grades very hard. There are pop quizzes so you always have to read, on top of other assignments. It's very different than the other creative writing classes with different professors. There is a good amount of writing but I think if you listen in class and show up, it will be easy for you. GET THE TEXTBOOK!

Tough grader
Get ready to read
Beware of pop quizzes
1.0
5.0
222
Grade: C
Apr 26, 2024

Debra is a very harsh grader and expects you to be there for every class or you WILL be docked serious points. She teaches content on a black board that is not at all on the exams and is very heavy on knowing how to write masters level papers in an undergrad class. She will make you feel bad if English is not your first language and picks favorites

Tough grader
Beware of pop quizzes
Lecture heavy
3.0
2.0
ENG222
Grade: A
May 8, 2024

One of the easiest classes I've taken as an English major. The assignments weren't challenging if you try, you need to have the textbook but just get the online version. Dr. Cumberland talks to everyone like children which is annoying and class is agonizing cause she talks at 2mph, but it's better than her being rude and mean like other people ig.

Get ready to read
Clear grading criteria
Lecture heavy
3.0
3.0
ENG222
Grade: B
Oct 23, 2024
Would take again

Prof. Cumberland's class is a mixed bag - it can be tough, but engagement pays off. The readings are a must, and Unstuck study made prepping for quizzes a breeze. Overall, a solid course if you put in the work.

3.0
4.0
111
Grade: Incomplete
Dec 3, 2024

The class is not easy, but Dr. Cumberland is not a bad teacher. All difficulty I had in my class was on me. Certainly the hardest was the end of the year, and deadlines are always strict.

1.0
4.0
111
Grade: C
Dec 5, 2024

this professor was probably the worst professor ive ever had. she never responds to her emails and also is never in her office hours so if you want to talk to her outside of class good luck man ur kinda boned, if you want to not hate ur life maybe dont have her honestly. if you get sick and miss class to you might as well drop cuz she dont care

Tough grader
Lots of homework
Test heavy
1.0
5.0
111
Dec 10, 2024

do not ever take this

Tough grader
Participation matters
Beware of pop quizzes
1.0
5.0
111
Grade: Not sure yet
Dec 10, 2024

If you take this class avoid her completely. Instead of helping us she would just criticize us. She would be so rude anytime you ask for help and she picks favorites. She also won't let you make up anything even if you were out sick and have a doctor note. DO NOT TAKE HER CLASS. Also an extremely hard grader and has pop quizzes.

Tough grader
Get ready to read
Beware of pop quizzes
1.0
5.0
ENG111
Grade: Rather not say
Jan 17, 2025

Gave surprise quiz on 2nd class, with reading assignment. Not flexible at all, and seems like she has superiority complex.

Get ready to read
Lots of homework
Lecture heavy
1.0
3.0
111
Grade: Drop/Withdrawal
Mar 25, 2025

I would recommend staying far away from taking class with Cumberland. She is extremely harsh considering this is the baseline English class that is required for almost all majors. She treats this 100 level class like a 400 level class. She clearly has bias towards students who participate, so if you are shy, like me, she will not like you.

Tough grader
Beware of pop quizzes
Lecture heavy
1.0
5.0
111
Grade: Drop/Withdrawal
May 5, 2025

AVOID ! AVOID ! Dropped in the first week instantly. She seems very RUDE

Tough grader
Participation matters
4.0
3.0
ENG309
Grade: A
Dec 5, 2025
Would take again

As an upper level English student, I think shes a great professor. However, our main assignments were essays, and often she would spring an additional requirement on us that wasnt in the syllabus a few weeks beforehand. She is very kind and doesnt mind talking with the class. More or less every reading you have will include a pop quiz, though!

Get ready to read
Beware of pop quizzes
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

93%

Textbook Required

67%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

B

95% confidence
Based on 37 grades
Most common grades:
B (13)
A (10)
C (6)
Grade Distribution
A(12)B(16)C(7)D(6)F(0)A-/B+(1)
Based on 51 reported grades
B: 13
A: 10
C: 6
Drop/Withdrawal: 5
Common Tags
Get ready to read (21)
Tough grader (15)
Beware of pop quizzes (11)
Skip class? You won't pass. (9)
Tough Grader (8)
BEWARE OF POP QUIZZES (8)
Participation matters (7)
Lecture heavy (7)
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