2.8

Mandana Salajegheh

Health Science - Simon Fraser University

2.8
Quality
3.2
Difficulty
43%
Would Retake
127
Reviews
2.8
Quality
3.2
Difficulty
2.7
Helpful
2.8
Clarity

43%

Would Retake

127

Reviews

Rating Distribution
Official

5

28

4

17

3

19

2

29

1

34

What Students Say

One of the WORST PROFESSOR of HSCI215

HSCI215 - 1.0 rating

Arguably the worst prof at SFU

HSCI215 - 1.0 rating
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

69%

Textbook Required

35%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

B

95% confidence
Based on 52 grades
Most common grades:
Not sure yet (11)
A (10)
B- (9)
Grade Distribution
A(12)B(17)C(5)D(1)F(1)A-/B+(16)
Based on 68 reported grades
Not sure yet: 11
A: 10
B-: 9
B+: 8
Common Tags
Tough grader (17)
Participation matters (15)
Skip class? You won't pass. (14)
Tough Grader (13)
Lecture heavy (10)
Clear grading criteria (9)
Test heavy (9)
Graded by few things (9)
Rating Trend

Stable

-0.12 avg change
Aug
Oct
Aug
Dec
Mar
Nov
Last 6 months
Ratings by Course

HIST101

5.0

(1)

HSCI2215

4.0

(1)

HSCI140

4.0

(1)

KIN140

3.8

(4)

BPK110

3.5

(2)
+6 more courses
Difficulty by Course

KIN110

4.3

HSCI2215

4.0

HCSI160

3.6

BPK140

3.5

BPK110

3.5

Reviews (127)
2.0
3.0
HSCI215
Apr 12, 2011

She often makes fun of students who put their hands up in class, her lectures are useless (all the slides are online), her exams are far too specific and unfairly marked, and the course didn't even teach much of what it was supposed to. No textbook, which is okay, but only take this course if you're willing to memorize everything on the slides.

4.0
1.0
KIN140
Aug 22, 2011

Had her for Kin 140 last fall. Nice teacher and all. Nothing much to say, her class was relatively easy. She does make you memorize specific points from the text.

2.0
4.0
HSCI215
Nov 16, 2011

She is awful as a professor! Avoid her if you can. Had weekly quizes and she would ask very specific information. Her multiple choices were aim to confuse students. Class average was 68% which is really low for a second year Health Science course. Exams were unfair. Taking this course felt like 2 course load.

5.0
1.0
KIN140
Nov 29, 2011

Really nice prof, tries to make lectures engaging. Straightforward class, and very easy. Mostly common sense stuff. Attend lecture cause her slides are fill in the blank style. Read the book and you're golden. Easy assignments. Easy weekly quizzes. MT's straightforward. Really wants students to succeed, and very helpful and approachable! GPA boost.

2.0
1.0
HSCI215
Dec 8, 2011

Well, her lectures are mandatory pretty much because her slides are fill-in-the-blank. However, she adds absolutely nothing to her powerpoint presentations, and her English grammar is atrocious. She also says the word 'um' in just about every sentence, which I find highly distracting. BUT, this is a very easy 3 credits provided you attend class.

2.0
3.0
HSCI215
Dec 11, 2011

Don't take this class unless you're willing to memorize every single detail on every slide. Her tests are specific and you only get the mark if you put the EXACT word down sometimes... This class didn't even really cover injury and disability, went WAY too broad beyond its purpose.

2.0
5.0
KIN110
Jul 25, 2012

The course and textbook is excellent except the final sucks like crap! Be prepared to memorize every little fact from the textbook/lecture especially the science part even though she says she's not going to test very hard on the science part ie. digestion through human body, molecules etc. I love kin but her exams killed me :'(

3.0
5.0
KIN110
Aug 8, 2012

very tough course. unnecessary information dumped onto students. incredibly hard exams. for a first year course, and most students taking it as electives, this course will take up alot of your time and be prepared to put in significant effort.

2.0
5.0
KIN110
Nov 2, 2012

Strongly discourage taking course. Absolutely ridiculous for a 1st year course;never had a course with so much material.Tested on literally 2X the material as other courses.Not worth 3 credits for amount of work.Won't maintain GPA&am A student.Excessive amounts of material makes it impossible to remember.StudyQ guidelines far from actual tested Qs.

3.0
3.0
KIN110
Nov 24, 2012

Thought this was a decent class until the final which I thought was super easy but when the marks I did poorly :S The DAP project was so confusing(Part 2 anyways). But the prof said she would work on that for next sem since it was a huge problem for many students. Overall, I found the content of the class to be useful.

5.0
3.0
HIST101
Dec 5, 2012

She is good,

2.0
4.0
KIN110
Jan 9, 2013

Extensive amount of unnecessary info tested. Use study questions provided as a guideline for midterm and final. They're taken directly, but do every question, she'll test the one you didn't do. Diet analysis is time consuming, finish it early. Overall, what you put in is what you get out

2.0
4.0
KIN110
Apr 15, 2013

Would not recommend this class to anyone who is looking for a GPA booster or an easy elective before graduating. Im in my last semester of my degree and this class will be severely lowering my GPA. Unnecessary amount of info must be memorized, more work than a 5th year class, and very specific exam questions. I highly regret taking this course.

1.0
4.0
HSCI215
Apr 16, 2013

Very specific course if you don't memorize the exact words on the slides don't expect a mark.

2.0
2.0
HSCI215
Apr 25, 2013

marking is not fair anymore. really picky, lot of memorization...

5.0
1.0
HSCI215
Apr 30, 2013

If you are good at memorization this course is super easy. As long as you study and read the notes COMPLETELY over and over you are guaranteed an A since all the stuff on the exam is on the notes. This course had no textbooks too so it was great!

2.0
3.0
HSCI215
Jun 3, 2013

The professor is asking students to memorize information word by word that is widely available online. This course is not challenging,unfortunately the teacher marks for memorization word by word. At the end of the class you havent learned anything that is not yet available on WHO. The WORST CLASS at SFU and the teacher is highly unapproachable!!!

5.0
4.0
HSCI160
Jun 18, 2013

She explained information accurately. It was an absolute pleasure in attending her lectures. Her examples would help in remembering important information. Very approachable lecturer.Course was challenging . Glad i took that course .

3.0
5.0
HSCI215
Jun 28, 2013

THE WORST CLASS EVER! I THINK THIS'S A KINDERGARDEN CLASS NOT UNIVERSITY LEVEL. SHE ASKS U TO MEMORIZE EVERY SINGLE THING. RIDICULOUS! percentages & unnecessary #s must be all memorized. I'm A student but I got C-!! she copies info from websites &her citation linksdontwork. Yes, she cites some of them someavoid this prof by all means THE WORST

2.0
5.0
KIN140
Jul 9, 2013

She is the worst prof in SFU. Never help students to solve questions.

2.0
4.0
HSCI215
Jul 19, 2013

Way too hard for a 200 level! She makes the content much much harder than it should have been. She talks about things in terms of physics when it's a hsci class. On top of that you had to literally write your answers word for word to get full marks. She asked for specific numbers and you had to memorize charts... TAKE ANY OTHER HSCI 200 CLASS.

1.0
4.0
HSCI160
Aug 11, 2013

she is not good at all. will never suggest anyone to take class with her.

3.0
3.0
HSCI215
Nov 3, 2013

I felt her expertise was being stretched a bit thin and she emphasized memorization too much in her tests, but overall I enjoyed the class and learned a lot. She is a good lecturer and very approachable outside of class time.

2.0
4.0
BPK140
Dec 4, 2013

In general she makes rude remarks,talks over you, doesn't answer your questions and is very good at making students feel stupid. she is very picky; marks for detail and spelling even if you miss an E at the end of a word you get the answer incorrect. She copies straight from the text, there is a quiz every week so you must attend all tutorials.

1.0
4.0
BPK140
Dec 4, 2013

In general she made rude comments, did not answer questions, cut students off and was very good at making students feel stupid. She copies straight from the textbook and is very picky with her marking especially about spelling. There is a quiz every week so attending tutorials is mandatory if not you will receive a zero for that quiz.

3.0
3.0
BPK140
Grade: B+
Dec 6, 2013

Had a good sense of humour, but came across as a little condescending to students. Mandatory tutorial as there is a quiz every week. Liked to stick to the textbook but everything was straightforward and overall a fair class.

3.0
3.0
HSCI215
Jan 17, 2014

Mandana so fab.

4.0
2.0
HSCI215
Feb 27, 2014

Thought that she was going to make my semester living hell based on the ratings I read, but she turned out to be one of my favourite profs. Midterms are straightforward, based on lecture slides (no text), one 3-hr LEC a week with TUT, TUT quizzes are easy. If you miss class, can easily get someone's notes. She doesn't try to screw you over.

2.0
4.0
HSCI215
Apr 2, 2014

This class is purely memorization of her lecture slides. And when I say memorization.. it's literally you gotta know everything WORD for WORD.. if not you won't get the mark. She stresses broad, key concepts in lecture, yet the exams ask for the most minuscule details.

2.0
3.0
HSCI215
Apr 24, 2014

I found explanations to questions more confusing than clarifying. Sometimes she says contradictions to true. Eg. advertised that gym is free but students pay approx..$60 per term.Exams too much memo.Introducing Kin&physic terms that are not studied in depth so memorizing terms seems useless but imp. on exam!1/2 course material useful info 1/2 not

4.0
2.0
HSCI160
Grade: B-
Apr 24, 2014

she is amazing, took her course in fic, it was preety easy, in class quizzes only objectives an assignment and final presentation worth 25. i got a b- because i didnt even study. i recommend her if you are looking for a gpa booster in fic.

3.0
3.0
BPK140
Aug 22, 2014

Mandana was a really nice prof and everything. However, her exams were quite difficult if you don't pay attention to everything she says in lecture. Quizzes every tutorial which were helpful to know what you were learning.

5.0
3.0
BPK140
Grade: B-
Nov 13, 2014

She is the best prof ever! She is strict and yes, she should be. People especially women feel jealous at her because she is beautiful and smart.

1.0
3.0
HSCI160
Nov 16, 2014

She's the most arrogant professor. Die but don't take this course with her!!

3.0
1.0
HSCI160
Dec 5, 2014

If you're looking for an easy class to balance out a heavy semester, this is a good one to take. Minimal effort required for the grades received. Can't stand her teaching style though (if you can even call it that). She reads off the slides which come straight from the textbook. She's pretty boring, but overall it's an easy class.

3.0
3.0
HSCI160
Dec 18, 2014

4 non-cumulative 30 mark quizzes, no mid, no final, 2 individual assignments. Her lectures are basically her reading the slides, but you need to go because she has fill-in-the blanks. Quizzes are tricky, study the very specific details and you will do well.

5.0
2.0
HSCI160
Feb 18, 2015

I don't know why there are so many bad reviews. I thought she was a great prof with super straight forward notes and exams. As long as you attend and listen in lecture and really make sure you know the slides it is an easy A. I thought the project was tedious and a waste of time but overall I definitely recommend taking this class with her.

5.0
1.0
HSCI160
Grade: B-
Mar 23, 2015

Interesting video Inspiring lectures Easy quizs and assignments Best prof i ever had :) i'm just kidding, good luck w that B :)

2.0
4.0
HSCI215
Aug 17, 2015

Remember every detail. I do mean EVERY DETAIL. This course is hardcore memorization and if you are not ready to put exactly what's in the slides onto the test paper, you won't do well at all. Professor is arrogant and has a way of patronizing students.

1.0
5.0
HSCI215
Aug 18, 2015

Lectures were incredibly boring and even long. And the prof will read every single words on the slides. There's no point to go to lectures but you will have to go to fill in the blanks on the slides. Tests doesn't seem tough but she is very picky when grading. I recommend you to avoid her if possible. Don't take a course with her. Please.

5.0
1.0
HSCI160
Grade: A+
Aug 21, 2015

Just the best

4.0
1.0
HSCI160
Grade: B+
Oct 30, 2015

Manda is really nice, her lectures are interesting. Easy course to pass just have to show up listen during lectures and do the works, and you shall pass.

3.0
3.0
HSCI215
Nov 13, 2015

She is nice,approachable ,organize... her tests are very fair.. and yeaa do the work get a decent grade

3.0
3.0
HSCI215
Grade: A
Nov 22, 2015

Mandana herself is very nice, and in HSCI 160, she was a fantastic prof. However; I found HSCI 215 quite a broad class, that needs to be revised, as all of her material comes from WHO Reports. Tests are a bit tricky, as well.

4.0
2.0
HSCI215
Dec 11, 2015

Go to lecture to fill in the blanks in her notes, and for better understanding of notes. She tells you to study her lecture notes, the exam is straight from them, yet students still complain about "hard grading" - just study lecture and you're fine. Don't bother with the readings. clear, shows interest in topics, fair exams, but reads off slides

4.0
2.0
HSCI160
Dec 11, 2015

Focus on your notes and you'll be fine. Clear lectures

2.0
5.0
HSCI215
Dec 12, 2015

She tends to give questions on materials that she didnt explain in depth about during the lecture for the exams She would tell the class to memorize certain parts of the lecture assuming that it will be asked in the exam, but its not. Dont spend time on memorizing the stuff that she asks you to do. Spend time on the details Shes rude and stubborn

2.0
4.0
HSCI215
Feb 11, 2016

You really need to know the lectures in depth because she asks very specific things from them. Careful how you ask and answer things in class because if you don't answer correctly or the way she likes, she'll definitely give you a bad look. There's a few group presentations. Snobby and seems she only cares about the way she's dresses. Boring prof

4.0
3.0
HSCI160
Grade: B
Jun 21, 2016
Would take again

she's super nice and kind and super helpful. many people said that she's terrible etc but its not as long as you attend her class, do all assignments and quizzes very well, and make a notes from her lecture notes, you'll pass the class.

3.0
4.0
BPK110
Grade: B
Sep 7, 2016
Would take again

She explain all materials from her slides straight-forward so it's easy to understand. Just don't skip class since sometimes she will choose student randomly according from student list. She also very helpful whenever you asked her.

Participation matters
Skip class? You won't pass.
Hilarious
2.0
4.0
BPK140
Nov 7, 2016
Wouldn't take again

She is a wonderful presenter but a horrible teacher. She does not specify or highlight what is important. There is an abundance of information and the class dropped my GPA when I took it as a GPA booster. I am disappointed and I generally do well in my classes. I: The rest of the class didn't seem to do very well, average was fairly low.

Tough Grader
Skip class? You won't pass.
1.0
3.0
HSCI215
Grade: A-
Nov 10, 2016
Wouldn't take again

Mandana's class is extremely dry and boring. She reads straight from the slides, and it is OBVIOUS she just takes all of her information from the WHO website. I stopped going to lecture and just used the website to fill in slides. She was not good at answering questions and made an interesting topic unbearable. Take it with another prof!

Get ready to read
TEST HEAVY
GROUP PROJECTS
1.0
3.0
HSCI180
Grade: B
Dec 15, 2016
Wouldn't take again

The class wasn't hard, per se, but she was definitely unapproachable, cocky and condescending. I don't know, something about her just really ticked me off.

Tough Grader
2.0
3.0
HSCI180
Dec 15, 2016
Wouldn't take again

Read all of the content off the lecture slides and lectures were sometimes too long and confusing. Mid-terms/ Final are difficult as some questions didn't even correspond to the lectures. Not really approachable and TA isn't the greatest marker either.

Tough Grader
TEST HEAVY
LECTURE HEAVY
5.0
1.0
HSCI180
Grade: A
Jan 2, 2017
Would take again

I don't know why so many people are complaining about her. She makes it clear about what she wants. Take notes from the textbook & study that completely and then print out her lecture notes just to see what you've missed. Got nearly perfect on both the midterms and the final exam... No new information was presented

4.0
3.0
BPK110
Jan 10, 2017
Would take again

Mandana is a pretty good prof if you're good at studying on your own time. Her lectures were just reading off the powerpoint with some additional info given orally. Midterm and final exams were quite tough because there's alot of info to know for this course so make sure you study weekly.

Tough Grader
TEST HEAVY
LECTURE HEAVY
1.0
3.0
HSCI215
Grade: C+
Apr 10, 2017
Wouldn't take again

Mandana is an O.K. Professor. She is pretty clear on what she expects of you, however I would not take any course she teaches again. Her lectures are just of her reiterating her Powerpoint slides. Her assessments weren't too difficult either. Just study her slides and you're good to go.

Participation matters
Clear grading criteria
LECTURE HEAVY
2.0
3.0
HSCI180
Apr 14, 2017
Wouldn't take again

Mandana is a very unapproachable teacher. She seems like she does not care at all about her students. When you talk with her, she seems like she wants to end the convo as quick as possible. During the final, she went against SFU policy and refused to let me use the washroom. Only good thing about her is that exams are fair.

4.0
4.0
HSCI2215
Apr 20, 2017
Would take again

Super hot prof very friendly. Would take her class 10 times. Easy GPA booster.

Tough Grader
Participation matters
LECTURE HEAVY
4.0
2.0
HSCI160
Nov 5, 2017
Would take again

Dresses very well. I took Global Health with her. Very clear about coming to class on time. Makes it very clear in the beginning. If you want to pass her course, never be late and participate in class. Pretty easy class in general, quizzes consist of basic well known information.

Participation matters
Skip class? You won't pass.
5.0
3.0
HSCI160
Grade: A-
Dec 2, 2017
Would take again

She's really an amazing teacher. The lecture can add more in your general knowledge about health, economy, politics, and social internationally. Attendance is mandatory. She is very on time person.

Participation matters
Skip class? You won't pass.
Inspirational
5.0
1.0
HSCI215
Grade: A
Dec 4, 2017
Would take again

A very genuine and kind professor. super clear during lecture. 1 paper and 1 group project in addition to MT and final which are all super easy and straightforward. She doesnt have a heavy research background and focuses on teaching which she is very good at. Super approachable to ask questions. & BEST DRESSED PROF OF ALL TIME!

Respected
Hilarious
Caring
5.0
3.0
HSCI215
Dec 5, 2017
Would take again

A bit physics and biology will help you do better is this courses. Also, not all clues she mentioned in the class will show up on the exams; she does not test you on common sense even though she mentioned in the lecture. Mainly focus on the specific models/mechanisms/steps/flowcharts since these will most likely show up on the exam.

Inspirational
Clear grading criteria
Caring
4.0
2.0
HSCI215
Dec 16, 2017
Would take again

Mandana is a great prof. She gave many hints throughout the semester on what would be on the exams, and makes lectures engaging. Can be very humorous and would often end lectures early. I would definitely take another class with her!

Hilarious
Amazing lectures
Would take again
5.0
4.0
HSCI215
Grade: B+
Dec 19, 2017
Would take again

This class may/may not a GPA booster for you. The final average is only 57%. So make sure you pick generous TA and make an effort in assignment since I feel the test question is somewhat unpredictable(but they are still fair) even though the course content can be pretty straightforward to follow.

Gives good feedback
Respected
Get ready to read
3.0
3.0
HSCI160
Feb 7, 2018
Would take again

She will tell u what you need to know in class. DO THE REVIEW QUESTIONS and READ HER LECTURE NOTES!

3.0
3.0
HSCI160
Grade: B
Jul 24, 2018
Wouldn't take again

Nice Professor first, but didnt like her attitude for sarcasming group of students just because of some individuals (generalizing). Aggressive tricky questions always and most students feel a bit stressful, but somehow is effective teaching style. She gives extra scores for the quiz if u get higher score in the second one! Be polite and respectful

Participation matters
Skip class? You won't pass.
EXTRA CREDIT
2.0
3.0
HSCI215
Nov 18, 2018
Wouldn't take again

The material itself is not difficult. The issue is that Mandana doesn't promote any critical thinking in her lectures or tests. Exams are based almost solely on facts and statistics. Lectures are drawn out and uninteresting. Better to skip class and memorize her slides yourself because you won't learn anything additionally from going to lecture.

4.0
2.0
HSCI215
Nov 20, 2018
Would take again

While firm, she is very clear on what she expects for her exams. If you go to class, take note of the blanks in her slides, what she has highlighted, and the questions she poses during class, you're guaranteed an A. There aren't any surprises with what she expects. If you don't study smart, and just memorize everything, you won't do well.

Skip class? You won't pass.
Clear grading criteria
LECTURE HEAVY
2.0
3.0
HSCI215
Nov 22, 2018
Wouldn't take again

Okay professor, but her marking is SO specific. You'll need to memorize all the slides basically because if you don't use the exact wording she wants, even if your answer is correct, she will tell the TA's to mark it wrong. She gives no disclosures when talking about tough topics, and isn't that approachable.

Tough Grader
1.0
5.0
HSCI215
Grade: Not sure yet
Dec 4, 2018
Wouldn't take again

Reads off the slides during lecture and provides little to no help in preparation for the midterms and final. Exams include obscure statistics and ambiguity in multiple choice, short answer questions are strictly graded, keep in mind, you will have to use her specified terms or be penalized for using a synonymous word that prompts the same meaning

Tough Grader
TEST HEAVY
1.0
5.0
HSCI215
Grade: A
Dec 6, 2018
Wouldn't take again

One of the WORST PROFESSOR of HSCI215. Her midterms are filled with statistics questions, and she needs exact word to word answer! For example if you say "deliberate" instead of word "intentional", you lose 1 mark. Do yourself a favor, AVOID HER! SHE IS SO RUDE and IRRITATED all the time due to her own issues and throw her ANGER on students.

Tough Grader
TEST HEAVY
LECTURE HEAVY
1.0
3.0
HSCI215
Grade: Not sure yet
Dec 6, 2018
Wouldn't take again

Arguably the worst prof at SFU. Exams are way too specific and has such a weird grading scheme. Avoid HSCI 215 with her and take an alternative HSCI lower division course.

Tough Grader
TEST HEAVY
1.0
4.0
HSCI215
Grade: B-
Dec 10, 2018
Wouldn't take again

Mandana's grade cut-off policy is essentially GPA Cuckoldry. If you get even 0.1 off the next letter grade she will cuck you and not round up, even if you are above 0.5 (72.9 for example). To add to all this, she is condescending when answering questions in lecture and tells you to memorize things for the exam that end up not actually showing up.

Tough Grader
Get ready to read
TEST HEAVY
5.0
2.0
HSCI160
Grade: A
Dec 21, 2018
Would take again

She is a great teacher. Honestly, she is totally different to the way she expresses herself, every warmhearted. Once I got depression, she encouraged and did everything to help me get over and feel comfortable. Her lecture is straightforward. Sometimes, she adds more information which could be in quizzes. Thank you Mandana <3

Amazing lectures
2.0
3.0
HSCI215
Grade: B+
Dec 21, 2018
Wouldn't take again

Exams consisted of memorizing stats and phrases from her notes word for word. Not sure how thats helpful for future jobs as there is no critical thinking involved. Decent option if you like pure memorization classes I guess.. IMO take the class with someone else, if you want to learn something useful.

Tough Grader
2.0
4.0
HSCI215
Grade: B+
Dec 23, 2018
Wouldn't take again

While Mandana's lectures were well organized and interesting, her marking criteria made this class awful. She did not care to see her students succeed, and the grading of the exams and papers was unfair and used to keep the average low.

Tough Grader
Skip class? You won't pass.
GROUP PROJECTS
3.0
4.0
HSCI215
Grade: A-
Jan 14, 2019
Would take again

I enjoyed the lectures, but the way she grades exams is just meant to kill your mark. Grading criteria is over specific to the point where if you use 'involvement' instead of 'engagement', you will be marked incorrrect. If you take this course, make sure to memorize the exact words used in the lecture slides.

Tough Grader
TEST HEAVY
Amazing lectures
1.0
5.0
HSCI160
Grade: B-
Mar 9, 2019
Wouldn't take again

I really dont recommend her.

5.0
3.0
HSCI160
Grade: B
Apr 22, 2019
Would take again

One of the best professors. Highly recommend her as she is a very engaging instructor and a highly knowledgeable personal who knows her stuff. Much respect :)

2.0
5.0
HSCI160
Grade: A-
Apr 29, 2019
Wouldn't take again

She improves your critical thinking skills but it is hard to get an A in her class.

Test heavy
Lecture heavy
Tough grader
3.0
4.0
HCSI160
Grade: D
Aug 23, 2019
Wouldn't take again

she's a very tough grader. Miss a class and that's it lol.

4.0
2.0
HSCI140
Grade: A
Sep 5, 2019
Would take again

Show up to class, and take notes. She drops a lot of hints for what to review. If you show up to class and are semi-interested it's an easy A. But bring coffee lectures are long and usually very dry.

Skip class? You won't pass.
Test heavy
Lecture heavy
1.0
5.0
HSCI160
Grade: Not sure yet
Oct 10, 2019
Wouldn't take again

Terrible Prof. Doesn't care about being available outside of class. You need to make appointments with her so she knows she can be at office hours. Quizzes are actually quite difficult, as no one got perfect. Lectures heavy in 3 hours but their good. Honestly, I thought i would've done way better.

Skip class? You won't pass.
Lecture heavy
Tough grader
5.0
3.0
HSCI160
Grade: A
Oct 20, 2019
Would take again

I took her HSCI160 class. She's definitely tough but it's actually not that bad. Show up, listen during lecture and she literally gives hints on what to study and you'll pass. Can't deny that I'm one of the "very few A students" of her but I don't think she's as awful as people believe, just a little more on the strict side.

Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
Tough grader
5.0
3.0
HSCI160
Dec 4, 2019
Would take again

If youre interested in global heath, this class is an easy GPA boost. Mandana is an amazing speaker and very knowledgeable on the subjects discussed. If you attend lectures and take notes, its an easy course. Her slides dont include all of what you need to know and she adds important and testable information as she speaks. Tests are very fair.

Skip class? You won't pass.
Graded by few things
4.0
3.0
HSCI160
Jan 1, 2020
Would take again

It is a very easy course but you need to present in all her classes specially first day of her class and she is really hard taking.

Respected
Skip class? You won't pass.
Amazing lectures
1.0
4.0
HSCI215
Grade: B-
Jan 9, 2020
Wouldn't take again

This is by far the worst class Ive taken at SFU. I would highly recommend avoiding this class with her. You have to attend lecture to fill in the blanks for her notes, which are directly from the WHO. She gives hints about whats on exams but theyre misleading. You have to memorize a bunch of useless stats and tested on 4/100 stats in lecture.

Graded by few things
Lecture heavy
Tough grader
5.0
3.0
HSCI215
Grade: B+
Jan 28, 2020
Would take again

She is sassy but absolutely amazing. Lectures are packed with information but super easy concepts to understand and memorize. Exams are very fair. Group projects were the only downfall with her horrific TA's. Other than that.. she is simply unreal, a gem, not a hard course to do well in if you study.

Group projects
Clear grading criteria
Lecture heavy
3.0
3.0
HSCI160
Grade: B+
Apr 27, 2020
Would take again

Shes pretty straightforward in her lectures and her slides are fairly easy to understand. Quiz questions can be a bit tricky as they are very specific.

Group projects
Clear grading criteria
4.0
2.0
HSCI160
Grade: A
May 20, 2020
Would take again

Very straightforward class - if you show up, take notes and study even a little before quizzes you will do well. The content is easy but interesting, and Salajegheh makes things very clear and gives good explanations. The textbook was not necessary for the course - she goes over everything you need in lecture!

1.0
3.0
BPK140
Grade: A-
Jul 11, 2020
Wouldn't take again

Easy class but uncaring and hard to deal with if you have problems. Pick another Prof or prepare for stress if you run into problems.

1.0
3.0
HSCI160
Grade: B
Jul 12, 2020
Wouldn't take again

Lol waste of money. Easy class. Difficult person. 0 if I could

Graded by few things
Tough grader
1.0
4.0
BPK140
Grade: B-
Jul 22, 2020
Wouldn't take again

Avoid. Doesnt care

Tough grader
1.0
5.0
HSCI160
Grade: Not sure yet
Aug 19, 2020
Wouldn't take again

She is by far the WORST professor in SFU & FIC. I feel like she should see her rating herself and try to improve on her way of teaching. I took this course and being honest I did studied hard for this course but she wants exact answers to her question. In simple English a PROF cannot be WORST than her. I am warning students from taking her class

Participation matters
Graded by few things
Tough grader
2.0
4.0
HSCI160
Grade: C-
Sep 4, 2020
Wouldn't take again

study a lot fr oral exam because number of pages you have to read is so much more than 100 pages and you need to review them. She won't give you good marks easily. Activity during the class has a bit effect on your grade.

Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
Test heavy
1.0
5.0
HSCI160
Grade: C-
Sep 15, 2020
Wouldn't take again

Just avoid her and youll feel better, in my opinion she is not really a university level teacher.

Test heavy
Lecture heavy
So many papers
1.0
5.0
HSCI160
Grade: F
Sep 16, 2020
Wouldn't take again

The class itself is easy but the instructor makes it so hard. I DO NOT RECOMMEND HER AT ALL,HER CLASS IS JUST A WASTE OF TIME!!

Participation matters
Test heavy
1.0
3.0
HSCI160
Grade: A-
Sep 26, 2020
Wouldn't take again

Class is easy but her marking doesnt make alot of sense especially if its subjective work (essay). Teaching level would be acceptable from a community college or high school level. I can see she's gotten a lot of negative reviews recently, which (maybe) due to the shift to online as I've never had her in person, but so far not impressed. Avoid

Get ready to read
Graded by few things
Tough grader
5.0
3.0
HSCI160
Oct 1, 2020
Would take again

I don't know why so many students complain about her. Her tests were tough, but I think that she makes it clear what she expected. She is a friendly instructor and its fun to talk to her.

Respected
Test heavy
Clear grading criteria
1.0
4.0
HSCI160
Grade: Not sure yet
Oct 25, 2020
Wouldn't take again

Run away when you see her name. She is very tough and not make sense when marking essay

5.0
3.0
HSCI160
Grade: Rather not say
Jan 8, 2021
Would take again

I don't understand some of the complaints on here, especially the ones that don't make sense grammatically. Mandana works really hard - goes the extra mile right now when we're online, doing live classes and being there for students for the whole class.

1.0
4.0
HSCI215
Grade: B+
Dec 14, 2021
Wouldn't take again

I noticed that people (I have my suspicions) were writing fake positive reviews for her classes. I took HSCI215 in 2018 and Mandana was extremely rude for no reason. When we were taking the final, a student asked her a question and she literally yelled at him in front of everyone in an auditorium. Exam questions were unfair and marking was unfair

4.0
4.0
KIN140
Feb 8, 2022
Would take again

Mandana is a very professional human being. She has a strong personality that stands out when she is working. Not only is she a good speaker but her level of expertise is clear that shows her effort of not only teaching but also guiding her students in all ways of learning. She is also very representable, and she has a great taste of fashion.

Gives good feedback
Inspirational
Caring
5.0
4.0
HSCI215
Grade: A
Feb 8, 2022
Would take again

As a professional Mandana knows what she expects. I believe she deserves more out from her job. Just make her a head president of the department because thats Mandana

Respected
Skip class? You won't pass.
Caring
5.0
1.0
HSCI160
Grade: A+
Feb 12, 2022
Would take again

Professor Mandana gives a lot of feedback. She has a great quality of engaging her class. For a Matt let of fact she is loved by all her students. I love herjust like the rest of the students:)

Accessible outside class
Beware of pop quizzes
Lecture heavy
5.0
2.0
HSCI160
Grade: A
Jun 10, 2022
Would take again

Mandana was super nice and understanding and a great instructor. You have to put in a lot of work for this course for the oral exams. If you just pay attention in class during the lectures, the quizzes would be a breeze. The group projects are fun and She gives good feedback. So, it's easy to pass mostly and it's also easy to fail

Participation matters
Group projects
1.0
3.0
HSCI215
Grade: A-
Oct 9, 2022

Took this class with her a while back. Her lectures are fine and I personally did not mind her assessments (fair if you go to lectures and pay attention, in my opinion). However, she was quite dismissive and was arguably rude during the couple of interactions I had with her. For these reasons alone I would not take again.

2.0
5.0
HCSI160
Grade: Not sure yet
Feb 8, 2023

She is a friendly professor but terrible at explaining concepts in class. Getting a hold of her outside of the class is challenging because she is never available, so you must email your TA and ask for help. Also, how she designs her assignments and quizzes makes no sense, even though the concept is straightforward. I do not recommend it.

Participation matters
Caring
Lecture heavy
1.0
5.0
HCSI160
Grade: Not sure yet
Mar 7, 2023

She is extremely rude and not understanding when you try to talk to her, does not matter if you have made an honest mistake or error with your work. She has no empathy and does not care about her students one bit. Save yourself the stress and do not take a class with her!!!!

Tough grader
Group projects
Graded by few things
1.0
3.0
HSCI160
Grade: B-
Apr 19, 2023

Not a great prof at all. Her lectures are incredibly boring, waste of time and shouldn't be three hours long. The quizzes are complete nonsense and her marking makes no sense. The TA is also completely wack. I asked her why I lost marks on the assignment and she had no clue what she was saying or why I lost marks. DONT TAKE THIS CLASS.

Tough grader
Graded by few things
1.0
4.0
HSCI160
Grade: Rather not say
Apr 19, 2023

whoever this prof is tell her to stop cooking in hsci. you will end up being more productive looking at a wall than taking her classes.

Tough grader
Graded by few things
1.0
5.0
HSCI160
Grade: Rather not say
Apr 19, 2023

Completely up-helpful, marked things wrong and refused to fix them despite it being an obvious mistake. Rude and hard to reach outside of class.

Tough grader
Lots of homework
So many papers
3.0
3.0
HSCI160
Grade: A-
Apr 19, 2023

Slides have blanks so you need to attend the class. Her lectures are okay-ish, not that hard. 2 quizzes, 1 individual assignment, 1 group project, 1 online assignment (pretty easy). She is a bit intimidating. Gives plenty of time for the assignments. The TA marked the assignment did not like her style of giving feedback, very unclear.

Group projects
1.0
3.0
HCSI160
Grade: Rather not say
Apr 21, 2023

HSCI 160 had interesting concepts and useful information, however, the professor made it unbearable. They had lectures with minimal information, explained over a 3-hour lecture & gave vague grading comments. They were rude and condescending to students. I do not recommend taking this course with this professor.

Group projects
Lecture heavy
Graded by few things
2.0
2.0
HSCI160
Jul 25, 2023

The prof's lectures are a little dry. She explains concepts briefly but when asked questions can be condescending. I felt bad for the TM because she had to act as a TA even though it wasn't her job. The prof's marking rubric was very difficult.

5.0
4.0
BPK140
Grade: Not sure yet
Aug 3, 2023
Would take again

This semester I took 2 courses(BPK140 and HSCI160) with Mandana, and do not understand these reviews and the low ratings. She is an amazing prof, her slides are clear, and her explanation is as well. She is always welcome to answer questions either during the class or after. Courses are interesting and a bit difficult but you will learn a lot.

Participation matters
Amazing lectures
Caring
5.0
2.0
HCSI160
Grade: Not sure yet
Aug 13, 2023
Would take again

Very interesting course. Found many new and interesting information.

Participation matters
Amazing lectures
Caring
5.0
3.0
BPK140
Grade: Not sure yet
Aug 13, 2023
Would take again

I with my friend have finished 2 courses with Prof. Mandana this semester. It were the most interesting courses we have ever taken here. In my opinion it is one of the best professors you can find here. (But be ready to participate in classes, it is real matters)

Participation matters
Group projects
Amazing lectures
5.0
3.0
BPK140
Grade: B
Oct 12, 2023
Would take again

She is so sweet. I don't understand how students can hate her, I think it is possible only if they are lazy and do not want to do anything and get good grades. Very caring, and helpful. She also replies to emails quickly. If it was possible I would take every course with her!

Amazing lectures
Inspirational
Caring
4.0
4.0
BPK140
Grade: B
Aug 18, 2024

The basic concepts of this course are easy, but Mandana sometimes complicates them. Attendance is mandatory. If this is a required course, make sure to remember everything, focus on what she says, and apply it (she'll test this). Having an appointment with her might help, as she can give you some advice to improve your studying and presentation.

Participation matters
Clear grading criteria
Test heavy
1.0
5.0
HSCI160
Grade: C+
Aug 23, 2024

Just avoid, my experience in her class was less than satisfactory!

Tough grader
So many papers
Test heavy
3.0
4.0
HSCI160
Grade: B-
Aug 29, 2024

She requires you to remember many concepts in HSCI. Her exam is application-based, and you must know a lot of concepts to get a good grade. Even though the exam is hard, the recorded group presentation, oral exam, and online assignments make the course seem easier.

Tough grader
Clear grading criteria
Test heavy
5.0
2.0
HSCI160
Grade: Not sure yet
Dec 2, 2024
Would take again

She's an amazing prof. She has her own principles, for sure, but once you figure them out, she is extremely nice and passionate about her job. Best prof I've ever gotten at FIC. She can be a bit rough if you are late, but she is not a tough professor.

Tough grader
Group projects
Amazing lectures
1.0
1.0
HCSI160
Dec 17, 2024

Who chooses who knows, this lesson is so simple it has to be complicated.

Tough grader
Clear grading criteria
Hilarious
1.0
1.0
HSCI160
Grade: Incomplete
Mar 13, 2025

I am currently taking a class of hers. The subject itself isn't hard to understand however she twists and turns her words which can complicate things. And the fact thag her slides don't contain all the information, makes it so you have to come everyday. She is quite condescending, and lacks empathy for students.

1.0
5.0
HCSI160
Grade: C+
Nov 24, 2025

Avoid, I have no idea why the grading is this tough.. honestly, just save your time and energy and money for another class lol

Tough grader
Participation matters
Lecture heavy
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

69%

Textbook Required

35%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

B

95% confidence
Based on 52 grades
Most common grades:
Not sure yet (11)
A (10)
B- (9)
Grade Distribution
A(12)B(17)C(5)D(1)F(1)A-/B+(16)
Based on 68 reported grades
Not sure yet: 11
A: 10
B-: 9
B+: 8
Common Tags
Tough grader (17)
Participation matters (15)
Skip class? You won't pass. (14)
Tough Grader (13)
Lecture heavy (10)
Clear grading criteria (9)
Test heavy (9)
Graded by few things (9)
Rating Trend

Stable

-0.12 avg change
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Last 6 months
Ratings by Course

HIST101

5.0

(1)

HSCI2215

4.0

(1)

HSCI140

4.0

(1)

KIN140

3.8

(4)

BPK110

3.5

(2)
+6 more courses
Difficulty by Course

KIN110

4.3

HSCI2215

4.0

HCSI160

3.6

BPK140

3.5

BPK110

3.5

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