4.8

John Gides

English - California State University - Northridge

4.8
Quality
2.6
Difficulty
97%
Would Retake
119
Reviews
4.8
Quality
2.6
Difficulty
4.9
Helpful
4.8
Clarity

97%

Would Retake

119

Reviews

Rating Distribution
Official

5

108

4

8

3

1

2

2

1

0

What Students Say

CSUN will lose a great professor when he retires

ENG306 - 5.0 rating

Hands down best professor Ive ever taken

ENG306 - 5.0 rating
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

85%

Textbook Required

17%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

A-

95% confidence
Based on 69 grades
Most common grades:
A (43)
A- (8)
A+ (6)
Grade Distribution
A(49)B(6)C(2)D(0)F(0)A-/B+(12)
Based on 73 reported grades
A: 43
A-: 8
A+: 6
B: 6
Common Tags
Hilarious (20)
Respected (18)
Inspirational (18)
Caring (16)
Gives good feedback (15)
Clear grading criteria (15)
Amazing lectures (11)
Group projects (11)
Rating Trend

Stable

-0.08 avg change
Jan
Feb
Apr
May
Aug
Oct
Last 6 months
Ratings by Course

13609

5.0

(1)

ENGL155CMP

5.0

(1)

ENG155CMP

5.0

(1)

ENGL155

5.0

(1)

COMP155

5.0

(1)
+27 more courses
Difficulty by Course

ENGL115

4.0

ENGL306

3.5

ENG115

3.1

ENGL155CMP

3.0

ENGL098

3.0

Reviews (119)
5.0
3.0
ENG155
Oct 11, 2005

Very intelligent and caring teacher. Sometimes too complicated, but will go out of his way to help you understand what he's talking about. He cares deeply about his students and is very understanding. He also makes the class really fun Highly recommended!

5.0
3.0
ENGL155CMP
Nov 18, 2005

He is a really cool teacher. He is willing to compromise and very understanding. Sometimes challenging but can be fun....

5.0
3.0
ENG155
Nov 21, 2005

very good teacher, will take the time to help you out if you dont understand, really cares about his students as well as make sure that we understand everything, its not an easy class but its a good one!

5.0
2.0
ENG155
Nov 21, 2005

He made the class really fun. He is very helpful when it comes to writing papers.

5.0
2.0
ENG155
Jan 2, 2006

Okay, he's a good prof, he's very smart and knows his stuff, but should have been a runway model instead of a teacher. He's nice, and really good looking, but is a snob straight outta Beverly Hills showing up in gucci and prada outfits. Worries more about his hair than his class, and can be a real jerk if you cross him. Really good class though.

5.0
2.0
ENG155CMP
Apr 1, 2006

Professor G. gets an A+ from me. Loved his class, and got a good grade, but don't think he he won't work you for it. If you don't do well (at least a B) he'll guilt you into doing well, and then turn class into book camp till you do. If you do what he says, you'll be fine, plus you'll learn a lot. He's crazy smart, and ladies, he's wicked sexy.

5.0
2.0
ENGL155
Jan 30, 2007

I loved Professor G. He's funny, smart and hot, and goes out of his way to help his students. Take a class from him!!!

5.0
2.0
COMP155
Feb 8, 2007

This guy rocks! Very funny, intelligent, caring professor. He'll do anything he has to to help his students do well and makes class fun. Very classy and the best dressed prof. on campus.

5.0
2.0
ENGLI97
Nov 8, 2007

He is the best...I love being in his class...he is not super easy but the class is not hard at all...everything he assigns is so much fun to do...

4.0
3.0
ENG155
Nov 11, 2007

he was my 1st prof on my first day of college. now i'm getting ready to graduate, and he's still my favortie teacher. can't help but love him. he's great. and he'll treat you like you're his own child. loves his job and his students. made me feel good about myself when i was a scared freshman. i'll never forget him.

5.0
2.0
ENG155
Nov 17, 2007

No Comments

5.0
1.0
ENG097
Dec 4, 2007

one of the good professor csun have.

5.0
2.0
ENG155
Feb 1, 2008

Let me put it this way: AWESOME!!!! He is great!! Even though I got a B-, it was worth taking his class...he really cares about your success!

5.0
3.0
ENG97
May 14, 2008

professor gides is the best. he did his best to make class interesting. doesn't assign tons of work, but what he does give you he expects you to do perfectly. gives you lots of chances to succeed. oh, never speak over him while he's speaking. drives him nuts. he comes unglued if you talk or whisper while he's teaching. AWESOME GUY

5.0
2.0
ENG155
May 19, 2008

Yeah I agree. Great guy, great class. but if you "speak while he's speaking" he turns into the exorcist. and if you use a phone or text while he's teaching, he'll take your phone and smash it. i saw it happen, be nice to him, he'll be nice to you. he's really smart. and very determined to get you to learn. cares soooo much about his students.

5.0
1.0
ENG155
Aug 7, 2008

DO NO TME HIM ANGRY.HE I THE BEST PROFESSOR. TAKE ANY OF HIS CLASS.

5.0
3.0
ENGL098
Nov 10, 2008

Probably is the Best professor at CSUN. He cares about all his studens and he is retiring this year and he still cares about all his students' success. VERY understanding and very educated. Knows what hes doing and does it very well. Have a great life after retirement professor.

5.0
3.0
ENG155
Dec 12, 2008

LOVE him!!! he was an amazing teacher and im sad that he is retiring after this semester!!!

5.0
2.0
ENG155
Dec 25, 2008

He is my best professor throughout my journey at CSUN. I fell asleep in class and he threw out a chalk on me..he is funny, helpful, and also thaughtful...i recommend him with no reservation. you will learn how to write English paper with him

5.0
2.0
ENG305
Jan 22, 2009

Substituted a lot of times for Dr. Clark in english 305. He was the best. He's a motivator and very funny. His classes are really fun.

5.0
1.0
ENG97
Feb 19, 2009

i've taken three english class with three different professors and he was definitely the smartest from that department. he's also the best professor i've had yet at csun.

5.0
2.0
WRIT098
Apr 2, 2009

Best prof ever. stops at nothing to get you to understand. wants you to ask questions and doesn't mind if you argue with him. He's open minded and willing to listen to your side of an argument. but no matter what he wins every time and has an answer for everything. very smart. compassionate. looks hot for his age. whatever he teaches, take it

5.0
2.0
ENG155
Nov 15, 2011

Hands down, the BEST professor that I've had while being a student at CSUN. Of the 15 years that I've been going to school, I've never had a professor that cares about his students as much as he does. He stops at nothing to make sure that we understand the material. Not to mention, he is super flexible and understanding. He actually cares about us.

4.0
2.0
ENG155
Dec 9, 2011

Easy and very clear professor. He makes the class really entertaining. Higly Recommend!

5.0
3.0
ENGL113
Jan 25, 2012

He's an amazing man and a wonderful teacher. I never had a teacher like him and doubt I ever will. I think he's overpaid though. I never saw a teacher wear a Rolex, or Prada shoes, but he loves his job so much he would probably do it for free.

5.0
3.0
ENG155
Feb 16, 2012

Honestly, the best professor I have ever had! He is so understanding and truely cares about his students and their success. I would take this course over and over again if I could. I would definetly recommend him for everyone!

5.0
3.0
ENG113
Jul 7, 2012

By far the best professor I've had at CSUN! He genuinely cares about his students and their education. He is very clear on what he wants to be done in his class, it is all set out in the beginning of the year. BEST professor ever!! You can tell he loves what he does

5.0
3.0
ENGL151
Jul 12, 2012

THE BEST PROFESSOR AT CSUN AND IN MY LIFE!!!!!!!!! I don't rate professors but made sure to rate him HONESTLY I LOOKED FORWARD TO CLASS WITH HIM EVERYDAY!!!! LOVES HIS STUDENTS AND CARES ABOUT HELPING MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN THEIR LIFE!

5.0
2.0
ENG115
Aug 10, 2012

No one on Earth like him. Doesn't matter where you go or what you study. I've taken two classes with him. He's the best English professor you'll ever learn from. What he teaches is what you need to know to be successful, and he's a great model because of how successful he is himself.

5.0
2.0
ENGLENGL
Aug 27, 2012

BEST PROFESSOR I HAVE EVER HAD AT CSUN!!! He helps you understand the required material for each class and he is all around a good guy. I do not regret taking this class.

5.0
1.0
ENGLI113
Dec 5, 2012

He is the best professor I have ever had. He is a great teacher.I highly recommend his class.

5.0
3.0
ENGL113
Jun 3, 2013

Loved him! I took his classes two semesters in a row and never wanted to miss anything he had to say. My writing is so much better now because of him and the work I did in his class is getting published! Don't expect an easy A. Not a lot of work but what you do needs to be near perfection. He has seriously high standards and held us to them.

5.0
3.0
ENG113A
Jun 19, 2013

This professor is awesome. Doesn't give a lot of HW. INTERESTING topics being debated in class every now and then. I learned so much from him. He really care for his students. Dont expect an easy A. You should work so hard on your essays, make them perfect as much as possible!I earned an A, its not impossible. Go to his office twice for each essay

5.0
3.0
ENG115
Grade: A-
Nov 15, 2013

Favorite teacher this semester. He's funny and is always willing to help. Not an easy A, but if you really listen to him and apply it to your writing, you should get a rewarding grade. Nice & goes out of his way to accommodate his students. Fun assignments, activities, & discussions. Strongly recommend taking his class! You won't regret it.

5.0
2.0
ENGLISH113A
Grade: Not_Sure_Yet
Nov 16, 2013

He is an awwwesome teacher!! very funny and interesting class. creative essay topics and very helpful when it comes to revising. wish i could take his class for 113B sadly, his class filled up very very fast! I highly recommend this teacher!

5.0
2.0
ENGL113
Nov 17, 2013

He's the best! And I'm really mad because I can't get into any of his classes for spring. They filled up as soon as they were posted with his name. I think this says a lot about him. If you can ever get a class with him then do it. Don't hesitate. He's no nonsense but very fun and laid back. You will not be wasting your time. Very smart and caring

5.0
2.0
13609
Dec 11, 2013

"JOHN GIDES" is a LEGEND. OFF the TOP! the BEST professor around ALL CAL STATE UNIVERSITIES. he is the BOSS

5.0
3.0
ENG115
Jan 18, 2014

Seriously loved this professor. Probably the best English professor/ teacher I've ever had. He really really cares about his students and wants us all to succeed. He will go out of his way to help his students and helps a lot when you ask for it (especially with essays)

5.0
2.0
ENG115
Grade: A
Apr 10, 2014

He is the best professor I've ever taken! He really cares about you and he wants his class to succeed. He is really easy to talk to and he makes you feel good about your work. If you don't like an assignment or want to go about it another way, he will let you have creative license. Wish I could take another class by him!

5.0
2.0
113B
May 23, 2014

Professor gides is literally the best professor I have have my entire freshman year. His class is never boring it is always fun, which makes you look forward for class. He actually cares about his students and tries his hardest to help them succeed. HE IS THE BEST AND I DEFINETLY RECCOMEND HIM.

5.0
2.0
ENG115
Grade: A
Jul 15, 2014

Professor Gides is amazing, take him! He's so helpful and truly cares about his students. I wish I had failed so I could take this class again. I improved in my writing so much because of his tips and advice.

5.0
2.0
LING200
Grade: A-
May 26, 2015

he is an amazing professor. totally would take him again. makes the lectures fun. a lot of group projects tho. only consisted of a few homework assigments a midterm which was take home and the final was a group presentation. super easy class all you have to do is show up basically

5.0
2.0
114A
Jun 3, 2015

Great professor, makes it very clear and helpful. Makes you want to go to class, his lectures are hella funny.

4.0
2.0
ENG115
Grade: A
Jul 13, 2015

I only had this class once a week. Three pretty easy essays. His exams are not paper and pencil, it's all done verbally except for the final. You basically have to be comfortable speaking in front of others and getting your opinion out there. Participation matters! If you do all the work and participate, getting an A will be no problem.

3.0
4.0
ENG115
Grade: C+
Aug 7, 2015

Professor Gides is an amazing lecturer, and his class activities are never dull (except finals.) Unfortunately, I find it annoying how every time I ask him for help on essays, he'd almost always tell you to just read the pages he assigned, which honestly didn't help me all that much. Overall a good class I wouldn't take again.

5.0
3.0
ENGL113
Grade: A
Nov 24, 2015

I have gotten to know Professor Gides on a personal level and he is an amazing professor and human being. Get ready for lots of readings and essays. I would highly recommend his class.

5.0
1.0
EN14123
Grade: A
Dec 2, 2015

Gides is the best English professor I have ever had and he is so funny!!! Do not miss his class and if you do, you better have a good excuse. Easy grader and he really cares about his students. Easy grader and class is never boring. really intelligent and awesome.

5.0
2.0
LING250
Grade: A
Apr 19, 2016

He's a teacher who cares a lot about his students and teaches not for students to just remember in their short memory but in the long run. He is always willing to compromise to better his class but also is a strict teacher who will not tolerate multiple wrongs because he is fair in judgement.

5.0
2.0
LING200
May 16, 2016

PROFESSOR GIDES IS THE BEST! Always had plenty of fun in his classes ( I took him for three classes because I enjoyed his form of teaching so much). Sitting in the front seats is always good because you get to socialize more with him and get on his good side. He will make whatever class your taking easy on you in terms of work. SUPER FUNNY!

5.0
4.0
114A
Grade: A+
May 17, 2016

Professor Gides is a hot head if you don't do as you're told. He's makes sure you understand the material and expects you to do your best work. Very clear with his prompts and always open to answer e-mails.

5.0
4.0
ENG115
May 19, 2016

AMAZING PROFESSOR ! Literally one of the best professors at Csun, he cares about you and knows how to teach the material. He isn't an easy A l, but if you pay attention you will do fine in class.

5.0
1.0
LING250
Grade: A-
May 19, 2016

Professor Gides is amazing. This was easily my favorite class at CSUN. He has a professional and personal style that I've never seen in any other professor and I felt like it made my learning experience that much more significant. There is quite a bit of challenging work, but not hard an he's very likable, but don't argue with him. You can't win.

5.0
2.0
LING250
Grade: A
Jun 18, 2016
Would take again

One of my FAVORITE professors!! If I could, I would take one of his classes again. He hates written exams so he makes you do presentations instead. Loved his style of teaching and makes every class interesting.

5.0
4.0
ENG115
Grade: A
Jul 1, 2016
Would take again

Professor Gides genuinely cares about the success of his students. He gives engaging lectures and provides a friendly environment in which you feel comfortable asking questions. Although this class is challenging, he lays out exactly what is expected of you( 3 essays, a midterm, and final). He's a really great professor, you won't regret it!

5.0
3.0
LING250
Jul 16, 2016
Would take again

Professor Gides was an amazing professor. He set up a very well organized class and wanted his student to their best. He was very helpful, and answered all questions. It's not a show-up and pass class, however if you put in the work then you will get an A. Highly recommend this professor!

5.0
3.0
LING250L
Grade: A+
Jul 26, 2016
Would take again

One of my favorite professors! He makes the topic being spoken about, very clear and he allows you to voice your opinion even if you disagree with his. He made the class very fun and interestting as you learned along the way. Also, there is no use of textbooks and he does not provide tests. I highly recommend taking his class.

4.0
1.0
LING250
Grade: A
Sep 1, 2016
Would take again

I took languages of california with prof gides and that class was a breeze. since it was his first year teaching this specific course he did not really have a set plan, and it didnt help that this course does not come with a textbook. He does not believe in homework or tests. your whole grade was based off group projects.

Skip class? You won't pass.
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
GROUP PROJECTS
5.0
1.0
LING200
Grade: A
Nov 8, 2016
Would take again

Gides is the most amazing professor I've had so far, and I've had some pretty great ones. He's hilarious, cute, and the class is super easy. A group project, midterm, and a group final. He makes this class interesting. He gives off this fake "mean" vibe, but he's the biggest sweetheart. Sit in the front and this will be a class you WANT to attend.

Hilarious
Caring
GROUP PROJECTS
5.0
4.0
ENG115
Grade: B+
Jan 10, 2017
Would take again

Professor Gides is a very energetic and interesting professor. You must attend the class, and remained focused. Don't be afraid to go to his office hours to ask for help or email him with questions, just make sure your questions are valid. Always found myself laughing in his class. Gides wants to help you and wants you to succeed.

Tough Grader
Respected
Amazing lectures
5.0
4.0
LING200
Grade: A
Jan 24, 2017
Would take again

Professor Gides is a great professor! He may seem like a mean person and tough grader, but in reality he's not. He wants the best for all of his students, so he makes sure his students understand the concepts. The class consists of a group project, a midterm, and final. His midterm and final are not a test, though. Be ready to read a lot!

Get ready to read
Hilarious
Amazing lectures
5.0
2.0
ENGL306
Grade: A
May 25, 2017
Would take again

I loved the class. I learned tons of practical information I can actually use, but it's a lot of work and very rigorous. He's very picky and strict on the little things. His standards are high. If you give him exactly what he wants, then getting an A from him should be easy. Always ask questions and go to his office for help. He's helpful like that

Gives good feedback
Respected
Inspirational
5.0
1.0
LING200
Grade: A
May 30, 2017
Would take again

LING 200 with Professor Gides was a blast, and because of this, I decided to major in Linguistics. It was life changing. You MUST do all the reading and participate. If you don't, you fall behind or even fail. He doesn't fool around. He likes students who are serious, so if you're not, take it with another professor. He's hot for his age.

Respected
Get ready to read
Amazing lectures
5.0
4.0
ENG306
Grade: A
May 30, 2017
Would take again

I really enjoyed coming to class. He created a fun learning environment. All work done in this course is group work. Attendance is mandatory. In my opinion it wasn't a difficult class to pass. If you do your work and follow the guidelines for each writing assignment then you should be fine.

Skip class? You won't pass.
Inspirational
GROUP PROJECTS
4.0
4.0
LING200
Grade: A
Jun 9, 2017
Would take again

Professor Gides was one of my favorite professors. The class is reading intensive, but if you actually complete the readings and pay attention in the class you will do well. Professor Gides is extremely passionate about the subject and makes the class interesting. I would definitely take the class again.

Get ready to read
Caring
GROUP PROJECTS
5.0
2.0
LING200
Grade: A
Sep 4, 2017
Would take again

Amazing professor anyone would be lucky to have. He doesn't just read off a power point but story tells and keeps the class engaged. Doesn't call on people who don't want to be called on but loves to help with questions. Adore him!

Amazing lectures
4.0
2.0
ENG115
Oct 23, 2017
Would take again

Excellent professor who is funny but often brags/exaggerates details about himself. He keeps you engaged and remembers your name so you learn. Don't pull out your phone in class, by the way.

Participation matters
Clear grading criteria
Hilarious
5.0
4.0
ENGL115
Grade: A
Nov 1, 2017
Would take again

Not going to lie, his class is TOUGH, but it is one of my favorite classes I have ever taken and I do not regret it one bit. He has a photographic memory and such an interesting life. He keeps you entertained, but you NEED to pay attention the whole time or he will call you out. He will try to trick you, so look out for that.

Tough Grader
Respected
Amazing lectures
5.0
4.0
ENG115
Grade: B+
Nov 4, 2017
Would take again

Best Profesor I have ever had! This man is a genius, you will get inspired and learn so much about life while he teaches the material. I couldn't wait to go to his class and just listen to what he had to say. Although, his class is not easy, he will make you work for your grade. I recommend anyone who has the opportunity to take his class. Respect

Respected
Inspirational
Hilarious
5.0
3.0
LING200
Grade: A
Nov 19, 2017
Would take again

The best teacher I've ever had in my life. I actually took his Eng 115 class in my first semester and his Ling 200 class the next semester just for fun. Oh, and 6 other students did the same. I thought his grading was very fair and pretty easy but you had to work for it. Basically, if you put in some effort, you will pass. Honestly, he's amazing.

Inspirational
Hilarious
Amazing lectures
5.0
4.0
ENG115
Grade: A
Nov 21, 2017
Would take again

It's worth taking this class. Professor Gides is so passionate about this class and is a very entertaining man

Inspirational
ACCESSIBLE OUTSIDE CLASS
Amazing lectures
5.0
3.0
LING200
Dec 5, 2017
Would take again

Great teacher!! He really helps you connect to the material and he's so funny! He's not tough and he understands student's so most of the times he's super easy to work with. His lectures are interesting and he doesn't give any tests. Its more about the presentations in that class. Really fun and interesting class.

Hilarious
Clear grading criteria
GROUP PROJECTS
5.0
2.0
ENG115
Grade: A
Mar 1, 2018
Would take again

I loved going to his class. Extremely smart professor. Really tries his best to help you if you have any questions. Prepares you for English and English related classes in the future. Favorite professor so far!

Gives good feedback
Hilarious
Caring
5.0
4.0
ENG115
Grade: A
Apr 12, 2018
Would take again

Gides is the best. It is that simple. Coming into college I had never written an essay in my life, just book reports. His tactic is to kinda throw you into the kiddy pool knowing you will be able to swim. He's a really cool dude and I would be his friend if I could. There are 3 essays and a final portfolio that is just putting them all together.

Gives good feedback
Hilarious
Amazing lectures
5.0
3.0
ENG306
May 7, 2018
Would take again

Dr. Gides is one of my favorite professors. If I can I will retake him because his lectures are full of useful information, he is funny, he is caring, and he is the most reasonable professor I have had at CSUN. I like that his expectations are high and that he believes in every students' capacity to perform.

Gives good feedback
Respected
Caring
5.0
2.0
ENG306
Grade: A+
May 9, 2018
Would take again

I would highly recommend taking this course with Professor Gides in person, rather than his online course. He knows what he's doing; his teaching is very open-minded and very inviting for conversation within the classroom. Your grade will depend on the many group's assignments so choose your members wisely. Don't stress out it's a fun class

Tough Grader
Gives good feedback
GROUP PROJECTS
5.0
3.0
ENG306
May 11, 2018
Would take again

One of my fav professors! He takes the time to know his students and is very funny :) All work is done in groups. He expects a lot, so he can be picky when it comes to grading but it's for your own good. Learned a lot of useful information that I'll actually use in the real world. If you get the chance to take him, DO IT. He's the coolest.

Respected
Hilarious
GROUP PROJECTS
5.0
3.0
ENG306
May 11, 2018
Would take again

Loved the class. If you get the chance, take him in person rather than online. The face-to-face interaction is much better for this class. We did a lot of in class activities that helped with assignments. He's a really nice guy to know and created a fun and comfortable environment for his student. If I could, I would definitely take him again!

Respected
ACCESSIBLE OUTSIDE CLASS
Hilarious
5.0
4.0
ENGL306
Grade: B
May 16, 2018
Would take again

I'm going to miss this class so much. Professor Gides is hilarious and so wise. He's lived through it all. This class is very group-based, so be careful who you sit next to on the first day. He expects a lot but it's for your own good. You won't regret taking him. REMEMBER "BREVITY".

Tough Grader
Gives good feedback
Caring
5.0
4.0
ENGL306
Grade: A
May 31, 2018
Would take again

Professor Gides is AMAZING! i crashed his class because i really needed to take English to move forward with my major classes and i absolutely loved his first lecture. He is truly inspirational. He couldn't' take me in to his actual class and one spot opened up on his online and I took it! Amazing you don't have to purchase the book either.

Inspirational
SO MANY PAPERS
Clear grading criteria
5.0
4.0
ENG306
Grade: A
Jun 27, 2018
Would take again

I felt so sorry for those who took Gides online instead of face-to-face. Man, did they missed out! He's a GEM! I would look forward to this class every single week. He's so refreshing and would keep us entertained always. This class is all group-based so be careful with who you introduce yourself to on the first day of class. They will be it!

5.0
3.0
ENG306
Grade: A
Sep 1, 2018
Would take again

Hands down best professor Ive ever taken. You will never be bored in this class! Group work the entire semester but he makes it fun and fair! Your group you pick on the first day will be permanent so choose wisely. I would take him for every class if I could! He offers real life advice that sticks. The world needs more professors like him!

Inspirational
Amazing lectures
Caring
5.0
2.0
ENG306
Grade: A
Nov 15, 2018
Would take again

Groups of 3. Homework and final is group work, so it's really not that much unless you get a lazy group. Dr. Gides makes a 3 hour class seem like it's 30 minutes. He's respected by all of his students and will take the time to help you succeed. He doesn't tolerate phones or disrespect. CSUN will lose a great professor when he retires.

Respected
Skip class? You won't pass.
Inspirational
5.0
1.0
ENG306
Grade: A
May 16, 2019
Would take again

He is the BEST professor in the world. Other professors need to sit in his class and learn from him. Do yourself a favor and take his class and LEARN real life lessons. CSUN need more professors like him

Group projects
Hilarious
Caring
5.0
1.0
ENG306
Grade: A
Dec 14, 2019
Would take again

Hands down one of the best English professors!! He's so understanding and nice to his students. He jokes around and is straight up in his lectures. Honestly, would re-take him if I could. You definitely won't regret it! Make sure you and your group stays on top of all the assignments and it should be a cake walk.

Respected
Skip class? You won't pass.
Amazing lectures
5.0
3.0
ENG306
Grade: A
May 28, 2020
Would take again

Dr. Gides is the definition of a HIDDEN GEM. You will not find a better ENG 306 professor than this guy (guaranteed). He has his occasional dad jokes here and there but overall an outstanding professor. Also during this pandemic, he was very accommodating and accessible. You will learn so much in this class and he's pretty funny.

Accessible outside class
Skip class? You won't pass.
Inspirational
5.0
5.0
ENG306
Grade: A
Jul 10, 2020
Would take again

Such an amazing professor! It was a lot of hard work to pass his class and get a good grade. He is clear on what you need to do to pass and treats you like an individual. His class is based on your participation and your groups work, like in the real working environment. Great teaching method! Really hard though, pay attention to detail!

Lots of homework
Participation matters
So many papers
2.0
3.0
ENG306
Grade: B
Nov 23, 2020
Wouldn't take again

Very very picky on assignments. One small error will get a 20-25% deduction from grade. Not clear on what he expects on assignment. Makes you purchase his own textbook which is 80% similar to his powerpoint notes. Would not recommend.

Group projects
Tough grader
2.0
4.0
ENG306
Grade: Not sure yet
Dec 1, 2020
Wouldn't take again

I think Covid ruined his attitude. By the looks of it, he used to be a great professor. My experience is very different. He's VERY snarky when giving feedback, and he grades harshly. He makes you buy his textbook which only contains the assignment instructions (already on canvas), and examples. So you're paying $ for some assignment examples.

Lots of homework
Group projects
Tough grader
5.0
4.0
ENG305
Grade: A-
Dec 10, 2020
Would take again

Professor Gides really helped me grow as an individual. Do NOT let the 2 bad reviews below intimidate you, they were probably looking for an "easy A." Professor Gides tells us from the beginning that his class is not an easy A class, YOU have to WORK for it, like with all things in life. He challenged me a lot but taught me so many valuable lessons

Gives good feedback
Respected
Caring
5.0
4.0
ENG306
Grade: Not sure yet
Dec 10, 2020
Would take again

professor Gides made my experience at CSUN one of the most memorable ever, even in a pandemic. He really shows us students that he cares about us and makes every possible effort to meet us where we are at and pick us up, help us learn, and do well. Seriously one of the Greatest Professors Of All Time (GPOAT). You won't regret taking him!! The best!

Accessible outside class
Inspirational
Group projects
5.0
3.0
ENG306
Grade: A
Dec 10, 2020
Would take again

Wow, wow, wow, what can I say! I will cherish the time spent in P. Gides class forever! This guy really showed me what having a great work ethic is and taught me self-confidence, meeting deadlines, and making the most of crappy situations (the pandemic). He prolly doesn't even know it, but he really made a positive impact in my life and helped me o

Participation matters
Clear grading criteria
Caring
5.0
3.0
ENG306
Grade: A
Dec 10, 2020
Would take again

Prof John, you r the man!! I'm never gonna forget your sarcasm that made my friends n i laugh every single time. Thank you 4 all the life lessons, teaching me how to write better like a pro(when I want to hahaha XD), & honestly just being there 4 me. Never have I ever come across a prof like you, so thank you for everything, I am set!

Gives good feedback
Respected
Hilarious
5.0
3.0
ENG306
Grade: B
Dec 14, 2020
Would take again

Best. Professor. at. CSUN.

Respected
Group projects
Caring
5.0
3.0
ENG306
Grade: B
Dec 14, 2020
Would take again

Hands down best Professor at CSUN, such a gem, truly improve my writing skills and helped me learn to think outside the box and solve problems with critical thinking skills. I'm gonna miss him.

Accessible outside class
Participation matters
Inspirational
5.0
3.0
ENG306
Grade: A-
Dec 14, 2020
Would take again

One of the only professors who legit got on a phone call with me to help me when I felt I'd hit rock bottom. Gides really cares about each and every single one of his students and I am so thankful for him. Demanding class but worth it because you get to spend time with Gides. Make use of his office hours, he legit tells us, "they re what your payin

Hilarious
Caring
Tough grader
4.0
3.0
ENG306
Grade: B+
Dec 14, 2020
Would take again

Stick to his CLEAR instruction and book EXAMPLES and you got yourself an easy A, use his office hours to meet him an get more help if needed, great guy

Clear grading criteria
Hilarious
Caring
5.0
3.0
ENG306
Grade: A
Dec 14, 2020
Would take again

wish i took him in person, great class, great man

Respected
Group projects
Clear grading criteria
5.0
3.0
LING330
Grade: A+
Jan 30, 2021
Would take again

WOW! What a seriously amazing & passionate professor! He is there for his students and super understanding. He's passionate about everyone succeeding, and he wants his students to become amazing teachers. Such awesome feedback on everything & clear grading criteria. You know what he wants, and he will always give clarification. Definitely take him!

Hilarious
Inspirational
Amazing lectures
5.0
2.0
ENG306
Grade: A
Dec 9, 2021
Would take again

LOVE this professor!!! It's mostly group projects in this class and all the homework assignments were really easy except the final report which is 20+ pages... Besides that final paper, this class was so easy because the textbook has an example of every assignment you write and most of the assignments were around 1-3 pages only. Take his class!!!

Get ready to read
Group projects
Hilarious
5.0
3.0
ENG305
Grade: B
Jan 23, 2023
Would take again

Phenomenal professor. Hands down the best I've had at CSUN. He's very knowledgeable, and expects a lot out of his students, which is very motivating. He's a caring teacher, and was always available for office hours, and accessible outside of class. 1000000% recommend. Only 3 or 4 essays, and a final presentation on what you learned & nothing else.

Clear grading criteria
Gives good feedback
Graded by few things
5.0
2.0
ENG306
Grade: A
Jun 1, 2023
Would take again

I think Dr. Gides is one of the most caring and amazing professors I have taken at CSUN. He was very helpful in office hours, always made me feel welcomed, and I felt comfortable asking as any questions as I needed in order to understand the material. The assignments are straight forward and simple just do what is asked.

Amazing lectures
Hilarious
Caring
5.0
2.0
113B
Grade: A+
Nov 9, 2023
Would take again

John GIdes is so much good professor. He don't like to use A.I. in his class. However, If you don't use A.I. for writing paper so this class is so good for you. I would like to say that your money worth it by his class.

Amazing lectures
5.0
3.0
ENG306
Grade: A
Dec 18, 2023
Would take again

Professor Gides is an amazing teacher, he gives clear instructions on the work and makes time for clarifications outside of class. He was very helpful when things in my personal life started affecting my classwork, I never felt like I couldn't be open with him. I would highly recommend his class and wish I could take it again and again!

Amazing lectures
Caring
Accessible outside class
5.0
2.0
ENG306
Grade: A-
Jan 13, 2024
Would take again

I enjoyed taking this class as it taught me how to write proper business documents.

Group projects
Clear grading criteria
Inspirational
5.0
1.0
ENGL205
Grade: A
Mar 14, 2024
Would take again

He's an authority on business writing. Lectures are fun and entertaining. He makes boring material interesting and relevant to business life. Great class! But not a good one if you goof off or aren't serious. You'll be treated like you're at Harvard and he does not take anyone's crap. You also have to buy his book that he wrote and it's mandatory.

Amazing lectures
Inspirational
Respected
5.0
3.0
ENGL215
Grade: A-
May 15, 2024
Would take again

I took English 215 this semester and I believe it was the best thing I could do for myself. Not only did I learn how to become a better writer, I learned how to do it at the highest level I have been taught up to date. I was able to email him about anything and it was answered immediately. I highly recommend this class to anyone.

Clear grading criteria
Gives good feedback
Accessible outside class
5.0
4.0
ENG306
Grade: C-
May 17, 2024
Would take again

Professor Gides is great at what he does. He clearly is passionate about his work and wants to make his students better. Even if he is frustrated or does not get the response he wants from his students, he still went above and beyond to see them succeed. If I had taken full advantage of what he provided, I likely would have received a better grade.

Group projects
Clear grading criteria
Gives good feedback
5.0
2.0
113B
Grade: A
Jun 19, 2024
Would take again

Professor John Is one of the best professor for LING 113B he was very clear about the syllabus and gradings just attend every class and submit papers on time, Don't use AI at any cost in his class professor gides is very strict about it, you'll be fine if you follow these.

Participation matters
Amazing lectures
Clear grading criteria
5.0
1.0
113B
Grade: A+
Dec 4, 2024
Would take again

I found his classes very enjoyable. You don't HAVE to go to class but there are assignments you have to be in class for. (peer reviews) His class was very informative not only about course matter but as well as universal information. I thoroughly enjoyed this course and would take his classes again. The textbook is your key to success.

Amazing lectures
Clear grading criteria
Gives good feedback
5.0
1.0
113B
Grade: B+
Dec 7, 2024
Would take again

Great class but do not screw around with him because he'll screw you right back ten times harder and has the authority to do it. Doesn't deal with fools, jokers, texters, cheaters, AI, coming late, or people who aren't there to legit learn. We called him Judge Judy on Discord because it's his way or the highway. Very smart. Expects you to be too.

Amazing lectures
Clear grading criteria
Inspirational
5.0
4.0
ENGL205
Grade: Not sure yet
Dec 14, 2024
Would take again

He is a very tough grader but a good professor. He is always available to help you and even encourages you to come to office hours. Strict but wants you to do better. I would take his class again.

Tough grader
Clear grading criteria
Respected
5.0
1.0
113B
Grade: A
Dec 15, 2024
Would take again

Professor Gides is one of the best professors at CSUN. Participation really matters for his class, and he assigns minimal work just one paper per month, including a rough draft, peer review, and final paper. He provides detailed feedback to help improve writing. Attend, participate, and follow prompts to succeed!

Tough grader
Participation matters
Gives good feedback
5.0
2.0
113B
Grade: A-
Dec 17, 2024
Would take again

He is an amazing professor one of my favorites from all the classes I've ever taken. He's very helpful, and attending his class is always enjoyable. There isn't much homework, and he keeps lessons clear and to the point. Ensure you don't use your phone or any other device during class. Overall, he's one of the best instructors you could choose.

Inspirational
Hilarious
Respected
4.0
3.0
ENG306
Grade: B
Jan 6, 2025
Would take again

Professor Gides runs a solid class - he's clearly passionate and wants students to succeed. The workload is manageable, and the textbook is helpful. For study prep, I found unstuck AI and ChatGPT to be great resources alongside the course materials. Overall, a worthwhile class.

5.0
4.0
ENG115
Grade: A
Feb 20, 2025
Would take again

Professor Gides is one of the best professors I've had the privilege of taking a class with. He is super understanding, kind, helpful and funny. He can be tough sometimes but in the absolute best way possible. As long as you write your own papers and actually try in his class, you'll do excellent.

Amazing lectures
Gives good feedback
Inspirational
5.0
3.0
ENG115
Grade: A
Apr 16, 2025
Would take again

He was definitely one of the best English teachers I have ever had. He had great lectures and made his grading criteria's clear. Some papers were hard, but overall he was a great teacher that I wouldn't mind taking again.

Clear grading criteria
Gives good feedback
Hilarious
5.0
4.0
ENGL306
Grade: A
May 28, 2025
Would take again

Bar none the BEST professor I have ever had the pleasure to be taught by across 2 different universities and 2 different colleges. He is incredibly well educated and articulate while still being funny, charismatic, and incredibly entertaining. I cannot recommend taking his class enough, everything taught will give you value for years to come.

Group projects
Amazing lectures
Inspirational
5.0
4.0
ENGL205
Grade: A
Aug 22, 2025
Would take again

Very nice professor and one of the few ones that care to actually help you get the highest grade possible. He gives good feedback and many chances to improve for future assignments. Overall a very nice professor although I recommend taking the in person class as the online class is much more difficult.

Group projects
Caring
Respected
5.0
3.0
ENGL205
Grade: A
Oct 20, 2025
Would take again

Best professor at CSUN hands down. He made the lectures entertaining because of his charismatic personality. Super and kind as well. Assignments always had clear rubrics and clear examples. Easy to do well if you listen to his directions. He genuinely cares about his students. Would 100% taken again

Amazing lectures
Hilarious
Caring
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

85%

Textbook Required

17%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

A-

95% confidence
Based on 69 grades
Most common grades:
A (43)
A- (8)
A+ (6)
Grade Distribution
A(49)B(6)C(2)D(0)F(0)A-/B+(12)
Based on 73 reported grades
A: 43
A-: 8
A+: 6
B: 6
Common Tags
Hilarious (20)
Respected (18)
Inspirational (18)
Caring (16)
Gives good feedback (15)
Clear grading criteria (15)
Amazing lectures (11)
Group projects (11)
Rating Trend

Stable

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Ratings by Course

13609

5.0

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ENGL155CMP

5.0

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5.0

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5.0

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5.0

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Difficulty by Course

ENGL115

4.0

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3.5

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3.1

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3.0

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3.0

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