smartest lady i ever met!!!!

hardest class i ever took!

excellent teacher, worth taking for any class

Absolutely the most intelligent woman I've ever met- I've learned a ton.

Class is very challenging and you become a better student from what she teaches!

awesome woman! excellent techer!

cool class & prof, learned a lot! she is very smart & helpful, highly recommend!

great class, very interesting. teaches more than just specified topic.

She will make you work hard but she is nice and helpful

Dr. Mowrey is brilliant! This class changed my life and made me a better writer

Very tough, but is absolutely fantastic... changed my college career

Those who said bad things are just lazy. She is GREAT. My favorite.

Terrible class, if I wanted English I would have signed up for it instead.

This class was difficult, and it made me work very hard to understand it. There are many opportunities for improvement if you do not get it right away. This class was the best I have taken so far at CMU.

I agree, this class is difficult, it is more like an Eng class, but you learn how to be a better student...take this class only if you are willing to work hard and love a challenge! Interesting material, but a lot of writing.

She is the most intelligent person I've ever met. She challenges you but she makes you a better student in the end. All professors should expect that much out of their students. Easy classes should have been done with when we graduated from high school

Very interesting class.

this professor knows what she's talking about. she goes out of her way to help her students to acheive the highest grade they can possibly get. i'm amazed that i finally have a professor that cares about her students!

HW everynight that is due the next class but she does not grade it she only stamps it.You have 2 portifilos due of 25 stamped assignments and she grades 7 out of them.Never more than 2 pages essay ever not too much reading.EZ class if you dont fall behind

Very intellectual women. However, her class SUCKS!! If you feel like spending two hours every night with homework then this is the class for you! I learned alot but the work was ridiculous. Two page essays and reading were assigned three days a week.

There is a ridiculous amount of work for a class I thought would be relaxed and easy. If you are really religous do not take it, she argued with people who added to the discussions on faith positions instead of using science and logic, very frustrating

Very intense and interesting lady; would be great to know outside of class. But, her class is difficult to keep up with. Lots, and lots of homework. However, she will bend over backwards for you if you need anything. I would take her again, but CR/NC.

She is one of the most brilliant professors I have ever had.She is well versed in all subjects, which allows her to bring dimension to any topic she lectures on. Anyone who takes a class with her will leave as a better and more prepared student.

She teaches very well and she covers every base that you need. Her methods are unorthidox but her results speak for themselves. She's outstanding.

This portfolio method is tough. It's hard to keep up quality work; there are so many assignments. It has confused a lot of students, whose grades will suffer. For my part I'm doing OK, but don't kid yourself, this class is going to be hard.

Ok, first off, this is a RELIGION class, so if you are religious, be prepared that some of your beliefs will be challenged,which is the case in most religion classes. This class is a TON of work, but very rewarding in the end. Do the hw and you're fine.

Not a class for people who can't handle being challenged. There is a lot of work but it pays off, if u do it. She's very helpful and smart. She is one of my favorite profs on campus! I learned a lot in this class and LOVED it!(im the type who hates hw 2!)

There is a lot of work, but it is designed to teach you to write and to work better. She is amazing at clarifying stuff, and she has you reading things that are for scholars. The work load is defintely for people that are trying to better themselves

If you participate a little in class and maybe go into her office a few times, you're golden. also i would recommend taking her classes as a freshman because she will teach you valuable skills and the course load is intense.

No one wants to learn anymore. If you possess an IQ over 4, go to class and put in a "little" effort you'll do just fine. But if you prefer to spend your time waxing your carrot then avoid this proff.

These bad ratings are not a surprise, considering the non-existent work ethic of today's students. You come to college for an education, and heaven forbide that Dr. Mowrey give you one. If people have to read, the class is too hard. Learn to study.

These ratings are superficial. Dr. Mowrey would give you the shirt off her back to help educated you, and what thanks does she get... If you don't want an education stay home. The state of students is sad when they can't see that she is one of a kind.

If you give her a chance, she'll give you a chance...my favorite professor! Her class is hard but she warns you in the beginning so quit nagging on her. She is very smart and if you go to her for help, she'll do her best to make sure you do well in class.

You people are crazy. This woman was an excellent teacher. She was very hard, but if you ask for help, she is also very helpful. Only take her if you're up for the challenge, and if you do, you'll learn a lot.

I took this course for UP credit. She's an amazing teacher. She will help you in whatever way she can and she's excited about what she is teaching. This is NOT an easy A, but you will learn.

She is not easy and if you expect a class with NO TESTS to be easy WAKE UP!!! We aren't in high school any more. I Went into college ready to give 50% and see how far it got me, her class taught me how to study, how to scan reading, and how to improve writing. Also, Reading is required in college

This class was extremely aggravating. Merlyn is very nice and so willing to help, but it's hard to get by in the class if you disagree with her reading and writing techniques.

I took Professor Mowry's class before transfering and was so relieved to have a professor who wasn't a total idiot. She makes you work and has high standards but if you pay attention you get a lot out of the class. She was among the very best professors I had at CMU.

Dr. Mowrey is an amazing prof with high standards for students. If you are looking for a blowoff class, this is not it - this was the only class where I earned my A! Obviously other students are at CMU for something other than academics...Dr. Mowrey is a challenge, but you end up a better student!

She was an odd woman. Hard class, lots of papers, but I honestly did learn a lot in that class and I enjoyed the books she recommended. If you're looking to make your writing better, her class is the one to take, even though its not an English class. But if you're looking for a blow off class, this isn't it.

There is alot of paperwork involved in her classes, but its not difficult. It does require atleast 1 hour of reading every day, but the class is well worth it. She is more than willing to meet with her students and does a great job explaining and helping o

You have to buy into Merlyn's method of studying, but once I did, my grades in every class began to rise. It's not easy; you have to really work to get good grades in her class. But as long as you put forth effort, she will reward you. I reached out to her, she believed in me, and she helped me in all of my classes. As long as you're willing to try hard, you will learn a ton from her.

Excellent professor, difficult class, but well worth it. She taught me a great deal about proper paper writing and how to present at conferences. I would not take back my experience with her for anything. She has helped me even into my Masters. Thanks.

Dr. Mowrey was a wonderful teacher - very clear, helpful, and kind. Writing is important, and she helped us to learn that and I will always appreciate it. Thanks!

Dr. M is a fantastic lady and most likely one of the best teachers on CMU'S campus. I just like to say that I took the class as a freshman and now I am take ENG 201 an pulling an easy A because of her class. I learned a lot for this women and she needs more respect as a person and teacher.

Anyone who says Dr. Mowrey doesn't know her stuff is probably someone who skipped class on a regular basis, doesn't like to do work, or simply doesn't pay attention. She knows her info. inside and out and teaches it well. This class was hard, yes, it required work..but in the end it is very rewarding if you like to learn!

BEST teacher I have ever had, period! She teaches you reading skills that will help you in any/all of your classes. She genuinely cares about her students, and will offer you help even if you aren't in her class anymore. I had her two semesters ago, and she still knows my name. The subject matter is amazing too! It changed my outlook on death.

She is most likely the best teacher on the campus. She truly cares about each student that she has her in class. Yes it is true that she thinks that college students need to learn to read better, but I thank her for it thats for sure. After taking this class all my classes that involve writing I Ace due to her. You will learn a ton in this class.

It's not an easy class, but you will definately take something away from it. Out of all my classes this is one of the few that I've actually learned in. If you don't have the time, or aren't really into becoming a better student, don't take it. She is willing to work with you if you have the time and will.

The best teacher on campus by far. It's hard work and a lot of writing, but you'll learn a lot. She cares a great deal about her students, and shows it. She'll know you on a first name basis by the first week or two. She even offered to teach my younger sister the material on her office hours since she's currently on sabbatical. That's dedication!

One of the best, most admirable profs I've had. She's enthusiastic, intelligent, cares about her students and you will learn so much in her class. Lots of work, lots of writing, but I became a better reader, writer and student because of her, and the material is interesting. Class is fun b/c it's set up as a discussion rather than lecture.

This class is tough! She makes good writers want to cry. But she is extremely helpful on critiquing essays and teaches you how to become a better reader. Don't take her if you don't like to work for your grade!!

Some tough stuff here. I've never worked so hard in a class for a C+, which I thought should have been an A-. If you want a semester of frustration and a strong liberal bias, by all means indulge yourself.

Challenged students mentally each and everyday. Wonderful discussion. The woman is a genius. Essays due most days. She is very clear in what she expects from her students. Take this class, expect to actually work for your grade and walk away with more insight and knowledge on the subject than ever before.

You should go to class everyday and expect to have an essay due everyday as well. On the flip side, no tests, no quiz's, and no papers, essays are usually 500 words or less. Participate, she loves it and it will help your grade. She knows a lot and you can take a lot out of this course if you put something into it. Learned TONS and LOVED thisclass

This professor is literally the best prof I've ever had. She is frustrated with the state of students today - and helps you become a better one! Negative reviews are left by students who would rather remain mediocre. If you are willing to work hard and learn a lot, take this course! REL and PHL are the same dept..expect both in class!

Firm but fair. Don't let the no exam policy fool you -this is a DIFFICULT class! You MUST read the books carefully. DON'T write the essays the night before -they're not as easy as you might think, and it's not "just homework." All that being said, she's a genius and she's ALWAYS willing to help. You'll never have another prof like Merlyn -take her!

This class requires a lot of reading and writing - I worked more than all the rest of my classes combined. But very provocative class. I would recomend it to anyone.

I had Merlyn for a couple of classes. Would HIGHLY recommend her b/c the subjects are interesting and you will learn a lot from her. Although the critical thinking skills portion may seem pointless at the time - pay attention and use it - I use those skills all the time in grad school.

Merlyn is such a wonderful instructor. She is willing to help students anytime. Her class for me was very difficult with the critical thinking skills, and you must do all the readings very carefully. If you have a packed course load I do not recommend taking her classes.Her classes are very stimulating for your brain If you like that then take her.

Although tough, this professor is incredibly fair. Her high standards pay off and the skills she taught me helped prepare me for graduate school. Thanks!

Extremely tough class and attendance is mandatory. If you are a person who shows up every once and a while you won't pass. Very intelligent lady and extremely fair but very tough. must prepare for class everyday... definitely not a slack off class.

The reason why Merlyn's profile here has a green frowny face is because she is being rated by idiots who are too lazy to do college-level work and too stupid to hold the big ideas we talk about in class in their tiny pea-sized brains. To those who care about their education, Merlyn is an awesome professor. Challenging, but definitely worthwhile.

She's tough, but fair. Make SURE you do the homework and don't hesitate to ask questions, she wants to give 110% help to her students. You HAVE to read when she tells you, and you have to come to class prepared or you will fail. She teaches the class more like an English/Composition class but all in all, you still learn a lot.

Dr Mowrey teaches at a university level. If you are looking for a class to just coast through, none of the classes she teaches will work. If you are looking for a class that will challenge you and help you grow mentally, I highly recommend signing up for one of her classes. Just be prepared to read and write quite a bit.

This was hands down the hardest class I've taken so far at CMU, however she is an amazing prof. Always willing to help but it takes hours and hours of dedication to get an A. Not a cupcake class so be prepared to work. Class contains a ton of reading which you must do to get an A. Go to office hours bc she is very helpful.

I thought she was a wonderful teacher that really knew her stuff and was extremely respectful of her students.

A university level class, and a 300-level class at that, demands critical thinking engagement, which is stressed from day one. Although the reading load may be too intensive for someone carrying more than 12 or so credits, the reading is thought-provoking and can have immediate real-world connections.

Dr. Mowrey is a good teacher but firm on showing up to class and doing the work. Her classes are not for those who are afraid to do work. I owe me working on my masters in Religious studies to her and she gave me the tools to be able to work at a masters level.

Dr. Mowrey is extremely intelligent and she really listens to what you're saying. The way she teaches is very clear and the homework can be time consuming but it honestly pays off in the end. I learned a lot. She goes out of her way to provide group meetings to help further understand the material if you need it. I'm very appreciative.

I am so grateful for taking this class. Everything I have learned in her class has helped me improve my other classes. She teaches you how to learn and since I love to learn, I really appreciate her. She spent 2 hours in her office with me when I needed help. Her class is tough, I would recommend a smaller course load if you take her class.

She is a very intelligent and respectable woman and she is also a great teacher. The only problem with this class is that it is so hard to pass. You will never know what is expected in your essays until they are already due and the workload is overwhelming. Her materials are very interesting but she expects way more than sometimes is possible

Dr. Mowrey taught me how to read and understand scholarly writing. I am a better student from having her as a professor. I am now a graduate and I will use what she taught me for the rest of my life. Do not miss the opportunity to have her as a professor. This course was difficult but she was accessible. If you do not do well it is your own fault.

Dr. Mowrey is a very intelligant woman. She is very helpful and is willing to do just about anything to get you to pass. With this being said: she is hard. This is the hardest class I have ever taken It requires a ton of homework and is difficult to understand. Be prepared to spend many hours on homework.

She is a brilliant woman. She's always willing to give extra help to students. If you want an easy A, this is NOT the class for you. She will make you a better student, thinker, reader and writer if you put the effort in. The material you cover is very interesting. You learn a lot about the subject of death and dying.

I took Mowrey years ago; I want to post and let you know that the skills she taught, the ones that everyone thought were "pointless" and "time wasters," have changed how I learn and read...I'm a better student, and have been in grad school and a professional postgrad program. Don't disregard Mowrey's teaching methods; she is definitely helping!!

Toughest class I've ever taken but I gained the most from taking it. I do not recommend this class if you're looking for something easy or a blow-off class to fill a U.P.

This class is definitely not a blow off. The material is difficult and she assigns a lot of writing, but, she is willing to do just about anything to help her students get good grades. Go to office hours and ask questions in class and you won't have a problem.

She really REALLY cares about your success, which is the kind of attitude every professor should have, however she makes you work hard. Show up for class. Don't buy all the books until absolutely necessary, you most likely won't get through all of them. I really enjoyed the class, but I didn't enjoy the workload.

She sets the ground rules very early, and attendance is a must if you want to pass. There is a lot of reading, and you will get more out of the class if you make the effort to be a part of the classroom discussions. Tough, but fair. If you are looking for a class to coast in, this class, and any class she teaches is not it.

Professor Mowrey is intense, but really invested in student success. Attend class, engage with the material, and use resources like unstuckstudy to stay on top of the workload. It's a challenging course, but worth it if you put in the effort.