4.5

Melissa Bonstead-Bruns

Sociology - University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire

4.5
Quality
1.8
Difficulty
93%
Would Retake
172
Reviews
4.5
Quality
1.8
Difficulty
4.4
Helpful
4.5
Clarity

93%

Would Retake

172

Reviews

Rating Distribution
Official

5

113

4

49

3

4

2

5

1

1

What Students Say

Otherwise just go and enjoy the class

SOC314 - 5.0 rating

Great professor, really makes sociology interesting

SOC100 - 5.0 rating
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

62%

Textbook Required

33%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

A+

95% confidence
Based on 68 grades
Most common grades:
A (48)
A- (13)
A+ (4)
Grade Distribution
A(52)B(1)C(0)D(0)F(0)A-/B+(15)
Based on 71 reported grades
A: 48
A-: 13
A+: 4
Not sure yet: 3
Common Tags
Caring (34)
Respected (24)
Clear grading criteria (15)
Hilarious (11)
Amazing lectures (10)
Participation matters (10)
Group projects (10)
EXTRA CREDIT (9)
Rating Trend

Declining

-0.34 avg change
Oct
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Dec
Last 6 months
Ratings by Course

SOC101SOC314

5.0

(2)

INTRO

5.0

(2)

SOC002

5.0

(1)

SOC1

5.0

(1)

SOCLOTS

5.0

(1)
+12 more courses
Difficulty by Course

SOC332

4.0

SOC000

3.0

SOC405

3.0

SOC101SOC314

2.0

INTRO

2.0

Reviews (172)
5.0
2.0
SOC101SOC314
Dec 30, 2004

She is a very interesting and helpful professor. Her lectures are always relevant and useful and she has a very pleasant personality and is very open-minded. She is also very fair. She's one of the best professors I've had and I look to take courses she teaches.

4.0
3.0
SOC101
Mar 16, 2005

Extremely nice and easy to understand. Her tests are easy, but read the books beforehand...she never really told us that the tests were mainly on the reading that we never discuss.

4.0
2.0
SOC
Apr 26, 2005

nice, and pretty easy tests...i did pretty well with minimal studying. i recommend taking this class at the same time as pysch 101 bc there was a lot of the same topics and that helped i think.

4.0
2.0
SOC
May 5, 2005

No Comments

5.0
2.0
INTRO
Oct 15, 2005

Very helpful. She knows the field and conveys the knowlesge well. She is respectful of all students and is thorough in covering the material

4.0
1.0
SOC101
Nov 15, 2005

Boring class but really not her fault since we had such a large class. I never went and still maintained a B.

5.0
2.0
SOC101
Nov 24, 2005

great teacher, makes a relatively boring class interesting, can get due dates moved back if you ask nicely. wants you to succeed in the class, tests are pretty easy, you watch a video about once a week or so overall i recommend taking soc 101 with her

4.0
2.0
SOC101
Nov 28, 2005

Just do your readings

5.0
2.0
SOC101
Dec 20, 2005

Overall an easy class. There are only three exams which aren't that hard. She is very nice, but classes were borning.I would recommend her if you want an easy class with little work.

5.0
2.0
SOC101
Jan 22, 2006

She's a very good and interesting professor. She really knows what she's talking about, and tries hard to make sure everyone understands. An easy class. Lots of readings, but none are hard. Take her if you can!

4.0
2.0
SOC101
Jan 26, 2006

Professor B-B was fairly laid back and understanding. Her tests are pretty cool in that you get to pick if you want to do multiple choice, short answer, or essay. She lets you watch some pretty cool videos and sometimes lets you out early. If you've been getting an A up until the end and she offers extra credit, take it or you will get an A-.

5.0
3.0
SOC314
Apr 10, 2006

AWESOME - i loved Dr. B - really clear and consise - tests are take home essays - very helpfull and only one project - so sweet -

5.0
2.0
SOC101
May 2, 2006

she is a great teacher, helps and wants u to learn the stuff, u just have to read a lot of stuff and answer the easy questions at the end. tests were pretty easy.. especially the group ones.

5.0
2.0
SOC101
May 17, 2006

Overall great class if you show up, take notes, and read the chapters in the book you're pretty much going to get at least a B on every exam. Take this class if you're looking for an easy GE class

4.0
2.0
SOC101
Aug 8, 2006

Tests were about little details. Lots of busy work. Work is worth a lot of your grade. Have to write a debate paper. Grades well on everything but tests

4.0
2.0
SOC101
Nov 1, 2006

The class isn't too bad, she brings in candy to keep us awake. The tests are hard but there is not many, but there is A LOT of book work. It's not a bad class though, I would recommend it.

5.0
1.0
SOC101
Nov 30, 2006

Excellent teacher for Soc. 101! Class is easy, and so is work from the textbooks. Usually lets class out early (esp. on Fridays). Would definitely recommend, especially for FYE class!

4.0
2.0
SOC101
Dec 1, 2006

She is awesome. Very sweet and nice. A lot of chapter readings and 3 group papers but it is not hard AT ALL. Three tests that are super easy, mayb there are 5 questions that you are not sure of but the other 50 are easy and pure logic! I really recomend her, the class is great altough 2:15 does get a little long... but sh borught candy!! :)

5.0
1.0
SOC101
Dec 4, 2006

Prof B is a very fun and helpful professor. She knows what she's talking about and makes information very clear. Reading the textbook is mandatory if you want to do well on the tests, but both the readings and the tests are extremely easy for the average student. I HIGHLY recommend her!

5.0
4.0
SOC101
Dec 4, 2006

i had a great time in this class, Dr. B is very helpful and very lighthearted, she also cooks a mean potato casserole!

5.0
2.0
SOC101
Dec 7, 2006

One of the best teachers on campus. She is extremely friendly and understanding. The assignments aren't bad at all, and the tests are easy if you pay attention in class and keep up with the readings.

4.0
2.0
SOC101
Dec 10, 2006

Very nice lady. somewhat strange, but very nice! If you go to class and do the assignments you can do well in class.

5.0
2.0
SOC100
Dec 14, 2006

A pretty easy class. Melissa is very nice, understanding, lenient, funny(she tries:) ), and a fair grader. Assignments are easy and if you study tests should be fine too. She also provides opportunites for extracredit. Alot of work is required from text however, but as long as you do it you are fine. Not the most interesting but she does alright

5.0
1.0
SOC002
Jan 1, 2007

She was an amazing teacher. Class is interesting and is a great intro into college class (it reminded me of a high school class). Take it as a FYE class if you can!

5.0
1.0
SOC101
Jan 5, 2007

Amazing Prof. very clear and helpful. tests were all multiple choice with a group portion.

4.0
2.0
SOC101
Jan 12, 2007

Interesting class, a great introductory course to Sociology. Prof. BB is passionate about her subject. She gives easy multiple choice tests with a group portion. There was a lot of reading but it was easy subject matter. Overall, great class and great professor.

5.0
2.0
SOC314
Jan 14, 2007

awesome and SO nice

4.0
2.0
SOC110
Jan 21, 2007

the class is not very hard. homework is easy if u do it u get full credit. tests are suprisingly pretty easy and can be fun. u get to take it individually and then as a group which always pulls up your grade. just study for the first test cuz it is on the founders of soc and u need to know them. i would recommand this class.

5.0
1.0
SOC101
May 12, 2007

It was one of the easiest classes I have ever taken, and she was one of the best professors i have ever had as far as actually teaching and actually caring. She really shows she cares about the subject and wants her students to feel the same. Extremely helpful and like i said, cares enough to help you out in any way.

5.0
1.0
SOC101
May 26, 2007

Easy class. Helpful and nice prof. Attendance is mandatory, homework is one of those 'do it, get points' thing. Plus you need to read the chapters and essays to do well on the exams anyway. To study for a test just read the books again the night before, and in-class notes. Don't sweat the project, she's an easy grader. Final test is just in groups.

5.0
2.0
SOC101
Oct 18, 2007

Great professor! Her lectures are very interesting and if you do the homework you will do well in the class. She is very nice and extremely helpful!

5.0
2.0
SOC101
Nov 20, 2007

definately take her! such a funny lady and you really do learn things. you take individual tests, and then take that same test, but in your groups. do lot's of fun activities! take her!!!

5.0
1.0
SOC101
Mar 3, 2008

she is a super sweet prof. she is straight forward and wants every student to do well. she loves to her others opinions and class discussions were awesome bc she cared to hear what we had to say.

5.0
1.0
SOC314
May 3, 2008

Melissa is definately a very nice person! Her classes are extremely easy and have some fun group components. If you like a challenging class, Melissa is not the prof for you...I had a hard time going to class because I was bored. Her lectures aren't boring, but the class is so easy.

5.0
1.0
SOC101
Oct 21, 2008

I think she's awesome. She is super funny, gives easy tests, makes classes interesting (we watch youtube videos all the time) and most of the time lets us out early. One of my favorite classes.

5.0
4.0
SOC101
Nov 13, 2008

GREAT professor! Has excellent power points and definetly knows her stuff. Projects are very clear and do-able. 3 tests which are fine as long as you attend class and study a bit. i LOVED her! Very nice lady

5.0
1.0
SOC101
Nov 19, 2008

I just took this class for my GE, but it was pretty interesting and I didn't mind going to class because Bonstead keeps things light and interesting by using lots of real examples/cases and videos! EASY EASY class

4.0
1.0
SOC100
Nov 25, 2008

Funny, nice, and interesting.

5.0
2.0
SOC101
Dec 2, 2008

She is an awesome teacher! I would recommend her to anyone. I don't understand Sociology very well but she was a great teacher. There are quizzes, but some of them are group quizzes. The tests are somewhat tricky but you get to take a group test the day after the real test and average them together. She is GREAT!

5.0
1.0
SOC101
Dec 17, 2008

Melissa makes sociology very interesting. There is virtually no homework, and quizzes were almost always in groups. Exams are easy as well: go to class and study the vocab at the end of each chapter and you're set. Not to mention 25% of your exam grade comes from the group exam taken the day after individual exams..group final too. Take this class!

5.0
2.0
SOC101
Jan 3, 2009

Prof. Bonstead-Bruns really made Sociology interesting! I took Intro. to Soc. as a GE and really enjoyed it, so much that I'm considering it as a minor, all because of how intriguing she made the class. It's not particularly hard, and she doesn't require a lot of homework. She's also got a great sense of humor and makes most everything fun.

5.0
1.0
SOC101
Jan 7, 2009

Bruns is the easiest teacher I have taken so far. She makes class interesting, some group quizzes, tells you the main points of what is going to be on the exam, group exams to average grade, plenty of extra credit opportunities, forgiving grading on papers...what is there not to like!!!!

5.0
1.0
SOC101
Dec 1, 2009

Class was extremely easy. I didn't read a single chapter and got an A. I recommend studying the terms listed at the end of the chapter. Melissa herself made class very fun and interesting. Take this class.

5.0
1.0
SOC1
Dec 4, 2009

love this teacher. Lectures are clear and engaging. She's really nice and tells you what to study for. Very little homework. She will get you hooked on sociology. My favorite class of the day.Take her class and enjoy.

5.0
1.0
SOC101
Dec 8, 2009

my favorite prof this semester. she is genuine and passionate about what she teaches. its a pretty easy class overall and easy to get an A. she has a great sense of humor and i would definitley recommend her to anyone!

5.0
2.0
SOC101
Dec 12, 2009

I loved this course and this teacher. She is very passionate about what she teaches and adds lots of fun and humor into it. A easy and interesting class. Recommend her to anyone.

5.0
2.0
SOC101
Dec 12, 2009

Best teacher ive ever had, awesome person and teaching style. 5 quizzes 2 tests 1 small paper. most fridays are movies. Great class

5.0
1.0
SOC101
Dec 15, 2009

six words: ONE OF THE BEST PROFESSORS EVER. She has entertaining lectures, even though attendance isn't required, it's simply fun to go to class. Also her tests are incredibly easy. I'm disappointed if I get a 92% on a test

5.0
1.0
SOC100
Dec 15, 2009

great class. great prof. loves her field of work. and its obvious. very interesting class as well. final for us is a group scratch off. take an opportunity in college to take a scratch off test. its so cool.

5.0
1.0
SOC101
Dec 17, 2009

She's pretty awesome, makes class interesting and well, not fun, but definately not boring. I <3 scratch off tests

5.0
2.0
SOC101
Dec 28, 2009

Wonderful prof. Very sweet and helpful. Her tests and quizzes are easy, and she is an easy grader, but she is bent on her students learning. I learned a lot from her. Take her classes.

5.0
1.0
SOC101
Jan 15, 2010

This woman is awesome. She has really funny, interesting lectures. Tests are super easy and the quizzes are group quizzes. You only have to write one 3-4 page paper for this class too.

4.0
1.0
SOC101
Jan 24, 2010

Professor Bonstead-Bruns is great! The class is easy, but also interesting. It was my favorite class of the semester. And you get out early a lot on fridays :)

4.0
1.0
SOC101
Jan 25, 2010

SO EASY!!!! Lectures are pointless and she gave up on attendance in our class, but if u read the chapter reviews and know the key terms you'll ace the class. No HW except for 1 easy assignment, and the final is done in groups! Take it for a Gen Ed A

5.0
1.0
SOCLOTS
Feb 16, 2010

Great prof. honestly caring, and her classes are easy but also REALLY interesting, I learned a lot from her in a low-stress environment : ) TAKE HER

4.0
1.0
SOC101
Mar 17, 2010

Bonstead-Bruns is an awesome professor! She tells lots of stories and shows lots of videos, but everything just makes sense. Not a lot of work, and attendance isn't mandatory to do well, but I went to class just because she was so fun.

5.0
1.0
SOC101
Apr 6, 2010

She is a very nice professor. Her lectures are funny and interesting, but don't cover much material. Definitely read the chapters to ace the tests. There is a lot of group work, even part of the tests are in groups. Lots of videos and funny, but relevant examples. I would recommend her.

5.0
1.0
SOC101
May 13, 2010

Great professor. Passionate about what she teaches, easy tests, easy class. Her enthusiasm makes dull material interesting. Read the book, take notes, and it's an easy A.

5.0
3.0
SOC000
May 18, 2010

Took her special topics course. It was something I was interested in but, by the end of the semester, I was actually passionate about the subject. I reccommend her for any class.

5.0
3.0
SOC101
May 21, 2010

This was such a great class! She is so excited to teach Sociology and makes it fun for everyone! There is no final paper, you do assignments called 'Your Turns'. You only have to do one and they are fun and easy! If you have to take SOC 101, take it with her!

4.0
2.0
SOC101
May 23, 2010

Easy class, text book material is interesting. Test material mostly covers vocab at the end of each chapter as well as some powerpoint material. easy teacher, passionate about what she teaches, and fun. take her for soc 101.

4.0
1.0
SOC101
Sep 2, 2010

Easy class! Would definitely take again. Exams are all multiple choice, easy group work, and class usually gets let out early. Take if you can!

5.0
2.0
SOC101
Nov 6, 2010

She's the best teacher ever! I love going to her class, and I actually look forward to attending it. As long as you pay attention in class and briefly read the chapter, you'll ace the tests. You also get to take group tests, so that helps boost your grade also. It's really easy to pay attention in class because she keeps it interesting.

4.0
2.0
SOC101
Dec 1, 2010

She was honestly one of the best teachers I've ever had. Her class was super fun and you can tell she loves what she's teaching. Exams are pretty easy, plus you get to take them in groups to boost your grade. She lets you out of class early alot too. Awesome professor. Take her if you can!

5.0
2.0
SOC101
Dec 5, 2010

Awesome class and awesome teacher. You will often get let out early. Grade is composed of 1 paper and 3 exams. Final is a group test. Favorite class i've taken here at EC.

5.0
1.0
SOC101
Dec 13, 2010

Really great professor. I actually looked forward to going to class every day. Tests aren't too bad, you should skim the chapter and then know the terms listed at the end of each chapter. Bonus: there's group exams to boost your grade. All in all definitely one of the best professors at EC, I would definitely take another class with her.

5.0
1.0
SOC101
Feb 3, 2011

Very easy class, very nice professor. Tests are easy.

5.0
2.0
SOC101
Apr 7, 2011

She is a great professor. Her lectures are clear and very interesting. I had never taken a sociology class in my life and I found it easy. I would highly recommend her.

5.0
2.0
SOC101
Aug 13, 2011

I took this for an online summer class and I loved it. Very interesting and I wanted to learn more!

4.0
4.0
SOC101
May 1, 2012

Easy class. The professor is AWESOME! She makes everything interesting. I would definately recomment taking this class with her, especially for an easy A

5.0
1.0
SOC010
Nov 29, 2012

Great professor! Really easy to understand and makes information relivant.

5.0
1.0
SOC101
Nov 30, 2012

She is a fantastic professor! Lectures are extremely clear and interesting. The class is not difficult, but she doesn't let it get boring. Group activities and projects escape the lecture stereotype in every sense. Tests are mostly lecture-based and not too challenging. Take this professor if you have the chance; you wont regret it!

5.0
1.0
SOC314
Dec 3, 2012

AWESOME professor! CHOOSE HER! She told me herself she only grades bc she HAS to. She makes things fascinating and is very laid back about late assignments and such. SUPER friendly and respectful, very knowledgeable and passionate about soc and pols.

5.0
2.0
SOC101
Dec 10, 2012

Awesome Prof. !!!

3.0
3.0
SOC101
Dec 14, 2012

very easy, fun, laid back. uses group activities. Class rarely goes to whole 50 minutes

4.0
2.0
SOC101
Dec 18, 2012

Everyone saying this class is 'easy', it's not simple, you actually have to put effort into studying if you want As, especially reading the textbook and studying vocab, which is main component on her tests. She also pulls some trick questions too. You take group tests too. Good profe Class ends early a lot. Sometimes confusing as to what is on test

4.0
3.0
SOC101
Dec 19, 2012

Although many say this class is an easy A. You definately have to work for it. The tests are a lot of your grade. Make sure to read the text book vocab for tests. Overall a great teacher and class is over early a lot. Good amount of work for a 100 level class!

5.0
2.0
SOC001
Dec 21, 2012

She is one of the best professors on campus. Easy to talk to, easy to understand, easy to deal with. Really great for non-traditional students with kids. She understands your struggles, hardships and will help you any way she can if you talk to her so she knows what is going on.

5.0
2.0
SOC103
Dec 23, 2012

Such a nice professor! She's funny and really enjoys what she's teaching. I would recommend reading the chapters along with her notes because a lot of which is on the exam is not in her notes. The work in this class is really easy, too. She also has group exams to help your grade. She's a great teacher, definitely take her!

5.0
4.0
SOC332
Apr 11, 2013

LOVE HER!!!! Best professor in the Soc Dept BY FAR! She really cares about her students!

5.0
2.0
SOC101
Apr 29, 2013

Makes class fun and enjoyable, definitely reccomend taking her class!

4.0
3.0
SOC314
May 1, 2013

She's pretty cool

5.0
1.0
SOC
Jan 10, 2014

Super, fun, knows her material, makes learning easy, useful, interesting too.

5.0
2.0
SOC100
Grade: A
Jan 17, 2014

Great professor, really makes sociology interesting. Doesn't seem like you will need to read the book for tests but you do!! She is a very kind hearted professor and pretty funny.

5.0
2.0
SOC314
Grade: A
May 6, 2014

Bonstead-Bruns is an AWESOME professor. She keeps classes interesting with relevant activities, is laid-back and understanding, and knows her stuff! Very great intro to social inequality. Recommend!

5.0
1.0
SOC314
Grade: A
Sep 12, 2014

Easy as can be. I think I opened up the textbook once for an exam (which was open book and online/take home). Otherwise just go and enjoy the class. Helps if you have some knowledge of classical theorists for the first exam, but the second one is open ended and you can pretty much just speak your mind on it and get a good grade.

5.0
1.0
INTROTOSOC
Grade: A
Jan 7, 2015

She is an awesome professor and lectures are actually interesting. Would definitely take again. You do need to look over the vocab in the book if you want to do well on the test. But you get to take the test twice each time, its really nice. Easy A.

4.0
2.0
SOC101
Grade: A
Dec 9, 2015

I really enjoyed my this class with her. She makes the lectures interesting so you actually want to pay attention. There was very little homework in the class. The tests were not hard either, she gave us an individual test and a group test so you're guaranteed a decent grade.

3.0
1.0
SOC101
Grade: A
Dec 17, 2015

Very caring and intelligent, however, her lectures do not go into a lot of detail, so reading the chapters in the textbook (took me 2 hours to read each one) are a must. Gives very few tests, take them seriously. On the syllabus, she offers multiple extra credit for up to 10 points - take advantage! Beware: sometimes there are in class assignments!

4.0
1.0
SOC101
Grade: A-
Jan 10, 2016

Melissa is really good at making the lectures interesting. At times she will end class early. Test material is all covered in class, so the textbook isn't necessary more often than not. Sometimes there were group activities in class for grade points, but almost no homework outside of class.

5.0
2.0
SOC101
Grade: A
Jan 20, 2016

Melissa is amazing! I took SOC 101 with her and would highly recommend. Her lectures are interesting and pretty interactive. The grading criteria is very clear and she sticks to it, remaining very fair. She was one of my favorite professors so far! Would definitely recommend!

5.0
1.0
SOC100
Grade: A
Apr 28, 2016

Melissa is a great professor, definitely would recommend her. tests are average, as long as you do your readings and go to the review sessions before the tests you'll get an A.

5.0
1.0
SOC101
Grade: A
Dec 6, 2016
Would take again

Great professor. She makes everything easy to understand. The tests are super easy and after you take the test once you take them in a group to improve your score.

Respected
Amazing lectures
EXTRA CREDIT
5.0
2.0
SOC101
Grade: Not sure yet
Dec 19, 2016
Would take again

Bonstead-Bruns is a very kind teacher and tries to make the class more exciting for everyone. She is very knowledgeable about the subject and does her best to help you succeed with both group and individual exams and unlimited tries on online quizzes. She wants you to learn the material, not just memorize it. Overall, one of the best profs I've had

Skip class? You won't pass.
Caring
LECTURE HEAVY
5.0
3.0
SOC101
Dec 19, 2016
Would take again

Take Melissa! She is amazing. She is super caring. The class was easy but you still learn a lot. You have to read the book for the tests. She tests off the book information. You watch a lot of documentaries.

EXTRA CREDIT
Amazing lectures
Clear grading criteria
4.0
1.0
SOC101
Feb 17, 2017
Would take again

I took this class as a gen-ed during my first semester here. It was a great way to fulfill some basic requirements. Melissa gave good lectures, and the material was interesting and fairly easy to digest. I would definitely recommend her class to others.

Respected
Caring
LECTURE HEAVY
5.0
2.0
SOC101
Grade: A
Apr 18, 2017
Would take again

Good professor. Learned a lot and the tests and quizzes are easy. All you have to do is go to class and be woke. She shows good videos and the quizzes are easy! Great class

Respected
Clear grading criteria
Caring
5.0
1.0
SOC101
Apr 26, 2017
Would take again

Take Soc101 with Melissa! Her lectures really opened my eyes to social issues in our world & I learned a lot from this class without the stress of hard exams or too much homework. You get to take each exam by yourself once & then you take the same exam with a group of 4-5 people which lessens stress & improves your grade. Also cancels class a lot.

Hilarious
Amazing lectures
EXTRA CREDIT
5.0
1.0
SOC101
Grade: A+
Apr 26, 2017
Would take again

Perfect! Have a pulse and get your A.

Gives good feedback
Respected
Clear grading criteria
4.0
1.0
SOC101
Grade: A
May 18, 2017
Would take again

Easiest A ever. All you have to do is complete all the work and you should get an A. All tests are taken in two parts- the individual is worth 75% of your grade and then you take the same test again in a group, which is worth 25%. It really helps to boost your grade. If you do all the d2l quizzes and easy group assignments, you'll be fine.

Participation matters
Clear grading criteria
5.0
3.0
SOC101
Jun 10, 2017
Would take again

Ended up not being that into the class, but Dr. Bonstead-Bruns is a good prof. Pretty enthusiastic about what she's teaching and tells stories that connect to what she's lecturing about. There was a lot of reading and the quizzes got hard for me to keep up with but I'd still recommend her class!

Get ready to read
Hilarious
Caring
5.0
1.0
SOC101
Jul 4, 2017
Would take again

Really good professor, she genuinely cares about teaching us material. Lots of reading, but quizzes and exams are not too difficult. She went into detail about social issues which was super interesting!

Respected
Get ready to read
Participation matters
5.0
1.0
SOC101
Grade: A
Nov 11, 2017
Would take again

She's a very good prof. Really cares about her students and gives student a lot of opportunities to pass.

Respected
Participation matters
Clear grading criteria
5.0
1.0
SOC001
Grade: A
Nov 27, 2017
Would take again

Only 3 tests throughout the whole semester (including the final) and she gives lots of opportunities to get an A. Super nice. Lots of videos, interesting lectures, and all quizzes are online. Show up and you'll get an A.

Respected
Caring
EXTRA CREDIT
5.0
3.0
SOC101
Nov 29, 2017
Would take again

Very, very good professor. In this class, you leave everyday actually feeling like you learned something. Is it an easy A? Not like everyone makes it out to be, but you absolutely won't get worse than a B in this class unless you simply don't show up. I enjoy going to this class

5.0
3.0
SOC101
Grade: A
Dec 12, 2017
Would take again

Okay, she's AMAZING!!! I had never taken Soc before but I loved her class! You really learn and feel inspired. I also liked the textbook and her very engaging lectures. She's the reason I decided to pursue a sociology minor! Take her if you want a fun, useful LE. Absolutely everyone could benefit from this course with Melissa.

Respected
Inspirational
Caring
5.0
2.0
SOC101
Grade: A-
Dec 12, 2017
Would take again

Really good teacher. Cares about her students, really sweet. For exams you take one individual exam and one group and combine for each test. Final exam was in a group. Would recommend taking this class and teacher!

Respected
Tests? Not many
Would take again
5.0
1.0
SOC314
Grade: A
Dec 29, 2017
Would take again

Great professor that shows passion within her lectures. Very easy class but also very informative. Attendance is taken, connects back to participation points at the end of the semester.

Participation matters
Clear grading criteria
Amazing lectures
5.0
1.0
SOC101
Grade: A
Feb 12, 2018
Would take again

Take this professor. Very easy A and very interesting lectures.

Respected
Caring
EXTRA CREDIT
5.0
2.0
SOC101SOC314
Grade: A
Feb 28, 2018
Would take again

Professor Bonstead-Bruns is an AMAZING professor that genuinely cares about what she is teaching. You can tell that she cares much more about keeping her students interested and engaged in the material than just a letter grade. She is so sweet and funny, highly recommend taking her classes!

Respected
Hilarious
Caring
4.0
3.0
SOC101
Mar 29, 2018
Would take again

Professor Bonstead is extremely nice and cares about her students but her lectures are more personal rather than informative. She includes so much personal information and talks about pointless material in her lectures. You have to read the chapters to get As on the exams because we go through so little during class.

Get ready to read
Caring
LECTURE HEAVY
5.0
3.0
SOC101
Mar 30, 2018
Would take again

She gives lots of opportunities to do well, makes class fun, exams are done both as an individual and group, unlimited time/takes for online quizzes.

Amazing lectures
Caring
Hilarious
5.0
1.0
SOC100
Grade: A
Apr 17, 2018
Would take again

SHE WAS AWESOME!! I really LOVED going to her class. Her lectures were great! I actually loved listening to them. She was very funny! I would 100% recommend her for sure. I wish I could take this class again. It was so fun! Tests are easy too.

Respected
Amazing lectures
Caring
5.0
1.0
SOC314
Grade: A+
May 2, 2018
Would take again

Best Prof in the University. 10/10 would recommend.

5.0
1.0
SOC101
Grade: A
May 10, 2018
Would take again

Melissa is great. She's super funny and cares a lot about her students and sociology in general. SOC101 with her is very easy and often interesting.

Hilarious
4.0
2.0
SOC101
Grade: A-
May 21, 2018
Would take again

Melissa is great! This class is super easy and great for getting some of those LE's out of the way. Tests can be a little difficult in comparison to lecture but not something to freak about. She tells great stories about her kids, and makes class interesting. Overall, good class and was worth my time.

Hilarious
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
Caring
4.0
2.0
SOC101
Grade: A
Sep 25, 2018
Would take again

I took this class over the summer online and it was honestly a breeze. Easy A if you take this prof. Most of the classwork was based off of discussions and projects. I never opened the textbook once. I mainly watched her lectures and put decent effort into the discussions. All the answers to her tests/quizzes can be found on the internet.

Caring
EXTRA CREDIT
GROUP PROJECTS
5.0
2.0
SOC100
Nov 9, 2018
Would take again

She's so nice. Take her you will get easy A.

2.0
1.0
SOC101
Grade: A
Nov 14, 2018
Wouldn't take again

It is a very easy class, but be prepared to read your book. She does not do a good job of describing things and chooses to show unrelated videos of random things during lecture. She relies heavily on her Teaching assistants and gave us our exam study guide the day before the exam. She makes it really easy to pass and just lets you do bare minimum.

Skip class? You won't pass.
Clear grading criteria
Caring
5.0
2.0
SOC101
Nov 19, 2018
Would take again

She's amazing! Her lectures are really interesting, and her tests aren't very hard. An easy, interesting class!

Amazing lectures
Caring
2.0
2.0
SOC101
Grade: A
Nov 24, 2018
Wouldn't take again

In the span of a week, she will talk in class about 1/3 of the chapter she has assigned you to read, then test on the whole chapter. We watch a lot of useless reality show clips. Even though professors aren't allowed to grade attendance, she still takes attendance for a "participation" grade. It's an easy class, but you'll be teaching yourself.

5.0
2.0
SOC101
Grade: A
Dec 19, 2018
Would take again

She is so understanding and an overall great prof. You take each exam twice, once individually and then with a team. Final is non-cumulative and taken with team again. Her lectures are actually interesting and she's very engaging. Loved her, definitely recommend!

Caring
5.0
3.0
SOC001
Grade: Not sure yet
Dec 19, 2018
Would take again

Professor Bonstead-Bruns is a really awesome person and professor. She's really nice and understanding, and gives clear grading criteria. If you to class (and pay attention) and read the textbook you should do really well in her class.

Respected
Clear grading criteria
Caring
5.0
2.0
SOC100
Grade: A
Dec 21, 2018
Would take again

Fantastic professor! Cares about her students and is really fun when teaching her lectures. She gives you many opportunities to receive an A in her class as well. If you have to fulfill an LE or just want to take a really good class, take this one.

Clear grading criteria
Amazing lectures
Caring
5.0
3.0
SOC100
Grade: A-
Dec 24, 2018
Would take again

Sweetest professor I've had in the three years at EC. Not an easy A class, be prepared to read from the textbook for tests. Class was mandatory but always enjoyable.

Respected
Get ready to read
Caring
5.0
2.0
SOC101
Grade: A
Apr 9, 2019
Would take again

Group tests, easy online quizzes, nice person

Group projects
Caring
2.0
3.0
SOC101
Grade: A-
May 1, 2019
Wouldn't take again

This class relies heavily on lecture and textbook readings, which wouldn't be a problem if the lectures were engaging. There are online quizzes that barely have an effect on your class grade, and the grade for the class relies on 3 exams. While the class wasn't very difficult, it wasn't worth the LE credits.

Graded by few things
Lecture heavy
4.0
3.0
SOC101
May 7, 2019
Would take again

Easy but boring lectures

Graded by few things
Group projects
Clear grading criteria
5.0
1.0
SOC101
Grade: A
May 15, 2019
Would take again

Melissa is freaking cool. She is passionate about sociology and it shows, really inspiring. The quizzes you can take until you get 10/10. All the exams are individual and then you take the same exam with a group and the percentage you earn is split between the two. Teaching a difficult, touchy, subject can be hard but she did a great job. Take her

Respected
Inspirational
Caring
5.0
1.0
SOC001
Grade: A
May 21, 2019
Would take again

Melissa is awesome! It really does not get much better than the this in respect to easy A's. Not to discredit the class, its super interesting and informative, but I mean there are group exams ... BEST PROFESSOR YOU CAN HAVE FOR SOC 101!

Respected
Inspirational
Hilarious
5.0
2.0
SOC100
Grade: A
May 24, 2019
Would take again

Lectures will keep you engaged. Material is not very complicated. Professor has great examples. Tests are 75% individual and 25% group.

Respected
Amazing lectures
EXTRA CREDIT
5.0
2.0
SOC101
Grade: A
Jul 31, 2019
Would take again

Our class was huge but her lectures were effective and entertaining. Group exams and projects were fairly easy. Lots of opportunities provided to boost your grade and retake quizzes etc. Not a ton of work required outside of class.

Respected
Group projects
4.0
2.0
SOC100
Dec 4, 2019
Would take again

easy A, not the most exciting or worthwhile but if your looking for a class to take its not terrible. although her lecture is all example based so in order to have a broad understanding of the material the textbook is your best bet.

5.0
2.0
SOC100
Grade: A-
Dec 15, 2019
Would take again

Bonstead really is a great teacher. She is caring and an easy grader. I loved to be able to not have to worry about this class.

Respected
Lecture heavy
Caring
5.0
2.0
SOC314
Grade: A
Apr 17, 2020
Would take again

Melissa is an awesome professor. She's so sweet and she really cares about you a lot if you have anything. Most of her assignments require a bit of reading but it wasn't that bad. Took 2 of her other upper-level classes and it was honestly the best. More assignment based and no exams/quiz. She's just that wholesome and knows her stuff.

Respected
Get ready to read
Caring
5.0
2.0
SOC314
Grade: A
May 5, 2020
Would take again

Melissa is a great professor and an even better person. She is very caring and is flexible with her teaching style. She wants her students to learn in a way that fits their style best and is willing to adapt. She is very informative and helps me gain a better understanding of social class inequality in our society. The group discussions are fun.

Respected
Inspirational
Caring
4.0
4.0
SOC101
May 22, 2020
Would take again

Would recommend

Get ready to read
Hilarious
Lecture heavy
5.0
1.0
SOC100
Grade: A-
May 26, 2020
Would take again

She is a good prof. If you are looking for an easy soc class take her. You take exams in groups and the exams are pretty easy. She is super nice and flexible with her students. I am doing online class due to COVID-19, and she has made everything very easy and manageable. would recommend her to anyone.

Group projects
Hilarious
Caring
1.0
1.0
SOC314
Grade: Not sure yet
Oct 25, 2020
Wouldn't take again

SOC314 isn't a hard class, then again we are in week 9 of classes and still only on unit 4 in class since materials haven't been posted in a timely manner. Dr. Bonstead-Bruns doesn't answer emails or questions in a timely manner with the online format we are in, and while she is flexible enough with due dates, I am not getting the class I paid for.

2.0
1.0
SOC101
Grade: A
Apr 30, 2021
Wouldn't take again

Dr. Bonstead-Bruns seems like a great person and would be a great in-person teacher, but she is terrible for online courses. She is hard to communicate with, for she doesn't respond to emails or respond to questions posted in the Q&A on Canvas. This class also requires a lot of reading. Easy A class, just poor communication.

Get ready to read
2.0
3.0
SOC405
May 22, 2021
Wouldn't take again

Melissa is a great person and could be a good professor but her life outside of school gets in the way quite a bit and she lets it affect class. We went a good 3 weeks with not hearing from her or knowing what was going on. She also did not grade anything until literally after finals.

Participation matters
So many papers
Graded by few things
4.0
1.0
SOC001
Grade: A-
Dec 6, 2021
Would take again

She is a great teacher and clearly cares a lot about sociology and her students. Can be very disorganized and often takes a long time to get slides onto canvas. Often rushes through lectures, can be hard to keep up when taking notes. Overall an easy class, group exams are a great and easy way to get your grade up!

3.0
3.0
SOC101
Dec 7, 2021
Would take again

Her lectures are boring, but she allows group tests after the individual portion. She cares about her work but is not the greatest public speaker, unfortunately. If the class was more engaging I think I would have enjoyed the class better

Graded by few things
Caring
5.0
2.0
SOC101
Dec 11, 2021
Would take again

If you have a general understanding of sociology going into this class it will be a breeze. I found it hard to focus during lectures some times, but the way exams were set up didn't make it matter too much. The chapter quizzes are essentially free points, and if you do the reading the exams are pretty straightforward.

4.0
2.0
SOC101
Dec 11, 2021
Would take again

He lectures are pretty boring, but my class was only 50 mins, so it wasn't that bad. I didn't put too much effort into this class because I had some other harder classes and still have a good grade. I like the way she approaches exams she gives you a list of items to review. You also get to take the exam a second time with a group.

Lecture heavy
4.0
4.0
SOC101
Dec 15, 2021
Would take again

She is very clear in her teaching, her lectures were amazing and she gave great examples, and its an overall easy class.

Participation matters
Group projects
Amazing lectures
5.0
2.0
SOC101
Grade: A-
Nov 7, 2022
Would take again

Melissa was a great professor. Her lectures were maybe slightly on the boring side, but easy content to understand, nonetheless. Exams were very easy, and group exams were taken after the individual exam so if your group knew what they were doing you're good.

Get ready to read
Clear grading criteria
5.0
2.0
INTRO
Grade: A-
Nov 10, 2022
Would take again

Take this intro she is an amazing professor

Participation matters
Amazing lectures
Hilarious
4.0
1.0
SOC101
Grade: B+
Nov 28, 2022
Would take again

Class was too easy. Only thing that was annoying was there was attendence.

Participation matters
Graded by few things
Accessible outside class
4.0
1.0
SOC101
Grade: A
Nov 28, 2022
Would take again

This intro class is very easy. If you pay attention to her lectures and do the readings, the exams are straightforward, especially since half of your exam grades are group exam scores. Attendance is an extra credit at the end of the semester. Just show up and you will do great!

EXTRA CREDIT
Group projects
Clear grading criteria
5.0
1.0
SOC101
Grade: A
Dec 14, 2022
Would take again

Very caring and flexible with her students and wants you to do well. Has a true passion for sociology and shows interest in her work. She does cancel class every now and then, but it is very easy to pick back up.

Hilarious
Caring
Lecture heavy
5.0
4.0
SOC100
Grade: A
Feb 15, 2023
Would take again

She is so sweet and is very open with students, a good reminder that prof are people to. Her exams are individual and then you take the same test as a group. She typically averages them or even just gives the group score as your total score. She also has the final exam before finals weeks to relieve some stress.

Amazing lectures
Caring
Respected
4.0
2.0
INTROTOSOC
Grade: A+
Jul 25, 2023
Would take again

This class was honestly quite boring. Every now and then, there is an in class assignment where you need to be in class to complete it, but other than that it is pretty easy. There was a lot of textbook reading and most of the tests are 50/50 with textbook material and lecture material, but I still was able to do well in this class without reading.

Graded by few things
4.0
1.0
SOC101
Grade: B+
Nov 7, 2023
Would take again

Melissa Was a very good person and professor. All the tests are two parts, one individual and one group, and then the grades are combined and averaged out. There are also weekly quizzes from the book readings, but they are effortless and can be found on Quizlet. Overall an easy and fun class.

Group projects
Test heavy
4.0
2.0
SOC101
Grade: A
Nov 18, 2023
Would take again

Professor Bonstead-Bruns is great at what she does! Her lectures are engaging and the structure of the class is clear. It is important that you read the textbook and take the chapter quizzes (open book & retakes allowed). Exams are first taken individually and then the next class period taken in groups.

Get ready to read
Amazing lectures
Clear grading criteria
5.0
2.0
SOC314
Grade: A
Dec 14, 2023
Would take again

I thought this was a good class. It was quite easy, there were only about one small essay per week and a paper final. Classes could get a bit boring, but she tried to encourage discussions to keep people engaged. I thought she was a good professor, and she is very understanding. If you need an extension on assignments, she is really understanding.

4.0
2.0
SOC101
Grade: A
Dec 29, 2023
Would take again

Very chill, only 3 exams and you take each one twice (first time individual second time in a group). Quizzes weekly but all the answers are on quizlet

5.0
2.0
INTROTOSOC
Grade: A
Jan 17, 2024
Would take again

Easy-going & friendly. Lectures are open-minded, easy to comprehend, and follow chapters. There are times I have no idea what we are learning or what chapter is being taught (a little unorganized). Readings are pretty lengthy. Quizzes are unlimited trys. Exams are pretty straightforward - scoring is easy. You'd pass, likely. Professor is laidback.

Amazing lectures
5.0
1.0
INTROTOSOC
Grade: A
Jan 19, 2024
Would take again

Very easy class and amazing professor. Very caring about students. 3 tests and you take them by yourself then with a group and she averages them. Quizzes every week based on textbook reading but they're very easy and you can retake them as many times as you need. Slides are all online so attendance wasn't necessary to get a good grade in the class.

5.0
2.0
SOC101
Grade: A
Jan 20, 2024
Would take again

She is a great professor and is caring of students. Her lectures are interesting and engaging. I rarely read the textbook and it was fine.

4.0
2.0
SOC101
Grade: A-
Oct 23, 2024
Would take again

Professor Bonstead-Bruns runs a straightforward class. The exams have individual and group components, making it easy to do well. Pair the textbook with unstuck study for an efficient study routine.

4.0
3.0
SOC100
Grade: A-
Dec 9, 2024
Would take again

Overall, I thought this class was an interesting general education course. The teacher is friendly and accommodating but has a political bias about specific topics discussed in the curriculum. Attendance is mandatory, but this class itself is relatively easy if you're looking for an easy gen-ed class. The class got canceled a decent amount.

Participation matters
Group projects
Caring
5.0
2.0
SOC101
Grade: A-
Dec 12, 2024
Would take again

Very easy course, if you're taking it as a general elective DO IT! Super easy course and material. There are multiple textbook quizzes, but you can take them as many times as you want till you get the score you want. Exams are taken individually and then taken in small groups and the scores are averaged as your grade. Overall good course!

Group projects
Clear grading criteria
Online Savvy
4.0
1.0
INTROTOSOC
Grade: A
Dec 13, 2024
Would take again

If you're taking Soc100 as a general elective DO IT! Super easy course and material. All the quizzes are textbook material, but you can take them as many times as you want till you get the score you want. Exams are taken individually and then in small groups and then the scores are averaged to get the final grade.

5.0
1.0
INTROTOSOC
Grade: B
Dec 14, 2024
Would take again

Dr. B was super awesome. Her lectures were interesting and allows you to take quizzes as many times as you want. Exams are done first individually and then with a small group and then averaged together. Super easy material, you don't really need to go to class much to understand it.

Group projects
Caring
Online Savvy
4.0
1.0
SOC101
Grade: A
Jan 12, 2025
Would take again

Class is super easy, the exams are easy too, the quizzes are easy as well, very few homework assignments. The lectures are kind of boring but I still went to every class in case I missed anything. I didn't really learn anything but I did get the credit I needed so it's fine I'm not a soc major anyways

Amazing lectures
Clear grading criteria
Caring
5.0
1.0
SOC101
Grade: A
Jan 28, 2025
Would take again

Even though I am not a soc major I really enjoyed this class. The lectures can be long, but she tries to keep them interesting, which I really enjoyed. The quizzes are relatively easy as they are on the textbook readings. The exams were a little more difficult, but she let us retake it with a group.

Caring
Respected
Lecture heavy
4.0
2.0
SOC101
Grade: A+
Feb 7, 2025
Would take again

I took this class over Winterim and would recommend. Assignments were made up of quizzes, group discussions, and three exams. Overall, nothing too difficult as long as you put work into the discussions. There was also an option for 5 extra credit points to summarize your group's discussion. Ended with a 100+.

Participation matters
5.0
1.0
SOC101
Grade: A
Mar 9, 2025
Would take again

She was never prepared for any classes, and I didn't even pay attention or take notes. The class was the easiest I've ever taken.

Lecture heavy
3.0
1.0
INTROTOSOC
Grade: A
Dec 1, 2025
Would take again

Her lectures were boring, and she always went off topic. She told my class we were extremely behind and then talked for 30 mins. Group exams online are very easy and quick. Can retake online quizzes as many times as you want to get 100%. Honestly, the class wasn't bad, but I got absolutely nothing out of it and dreaded going to class every week.

Lecture heavy
Graded by few things
4.0
1.0
SOC101
Grade: A
Dec 17, 2025
Would take again

Melissa is a kind and engaging professor. The class itself had fairly simple and consisted of easily graded group exams, and online textbook quizzes you can retake indefinitely. The only thing that was frustrating was that she repeatedly started class each day since the beginning of the semester letting us know we were very behind.

EXTRA CREDIT
Caring
Lecture heavy
4.0
2.0
SOC314
Grade: A
Dec 17, 2025
Would take again

Good professor, a little disorganized in lecture & not tech savvy, but super caring & flexible. Clearly wanted us to succeed. Small group discussion assignments with a multiple-option final project you can do by yourself or in groups. Learned quite a bit in class, lectures are informative. Most caring professor I've ever had, would take again.

Gives good feedback
Caring
Respected
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

62%

Textbook Required

33%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

A+

95% confidence
Based on 68 grades
Most common grades:
A (48)
A- (13)
A+ (4)
Grade Distribution
A(52)B(1)C(0)D(0)F(0)A-/B+(15)
Based on 71 reported grades
A: 48
A-: 13
A+: 4
Not sure yet: 3
Common Tags
Caring (34)
Respected (24)
Clear grading criteria (15)
Hilarious (11)
Amazing lectures (10)
Participation matters (10)
Group projects (10)
EXTRA CREDIT (9)
Rating Trend

Declining

-0.34 avg change
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Ratings by Course

SOC101SOC314

5.0

(2)

INTRO

5.0

(2)

SOC002

5.0

(1)

SOC1

5.0

(1)

SOCLOTS

5.0

(1)
+12 more courses
Difficulty by Course

SOC332

4.0

SOC000

3.0

SOC405

3.0

SOC101SOC314

2.0

INTRO

2.0

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