3.8
Quality3.0
Difficulty91%
Would Retake101
Reviews91%
Would Retake
101
Reviews
Rating DistributionOfficial
5
55
4
21
3
9
2
10
1
6
What Students Say
“His lectures confused me a lot”
COMM0008 - 3.0 rating“Fun class, real-life applications, & clear expectations”
COMM0008 - 5.0 ratingClass Info
Attendance Mandatory
63%
Textbook Required
60%
Grade Predictor
Your expected effort level
Predicted Grade
A-
Grade Distribution
Common Tags
Rating Trend
Improving
+0.22 avg changeRatings by Course
70
5.0
(1)INTRO1
5.0
(1)08
5.0
(1)COMMS70
5.0
(2)COM70
5.0
(4)Difficulty by Course
COM15COM30
5.0
COMMS1
4.5
INTRO1
4.0
COM30
4.0
COMS
4.0
Reviews (101)
Zoffel is a pretty cool professor, he'll push you to your limits and challenge you but in the end, if you put out the effort and try really hard, he's there to help out during his office hours and you'll get a lot out of his class.
I really like Zoffel, i get his sense of humor. the only tip i have is to know when he's joking and when he's not. he's helarious but if you want the A you can't mess around. I fyou have any trouble He'll see you on your office hours and he has good taste in music and clothes. but no on konws that better than he does :D
Hilarious professor. He's very passionate about what he teachers and is super friendly with students. He is a helpful teacher but he's not the most specific professor when it comes to directions. He uses big words so if you don't get it, ASK HIM and he will clarify them with you. ASK HIM. He'll help you.
He is great! A bit rough around the edges, but he's new here and I'm sure he'll tighten it all up! Great assignments that are challenging in a good way! Don't read and YOU ARE SCREWED (that's what makes him hard)!!!! If you're looking to float through pass on him, if you want to learn take him!
Prepare to use Reddit on a regular basis! Read your book, he knows if you don't. He's not afraid to call the class out on it either. But he's a hilarious professor. He also is passionate about his subject and is willing to help you when you need it.
interesting teacher, talks about himself a bit much, but gives us opportunities to share about ourselves. cool with tech in the classroom (texting, etc.) worth taking, but is a bit of wokr.
great teacher, going to major in comm because of this guy. didn't know that school could be fun.
He's a really cool guy, and even offers study groups after class at times. It's a pretty challenging class if you're not a comm major or a media/society fanatic, and if you don't read the book you will not do well! So if reading isn't your favorite, I wouldn't recommend taking the class. He makes it a point to make the class fun!
Zoffel's teaching style is quite dynamic. The schedule is subject to change and assignments were different for every class. Make sure to read the textbook, as this is not just an English class. Criteria is based off of the Communication discipline, so do not expect to get an A with the knowledge you have now. Overall, not a bad professor at all.
HORRIBLE. not only did we not once did we use the textbooks, but he has no method of teaching. he goes from A to Z in 1.5 secs. DO NOT TAKE HIM.
I waited a semester just to learn under this innovative and hands Professor. I had no interest what so ever in public speaking before I encountered this instructor. By far thee most honest and accessable Porfessor I have had in my 2 and a 1/2 years of college level studies.
You know those reality shows that are both awesome to watch in their drama and horrible because they make you think about your own life critically in unintended ways. That's how I would describe Zoffel's class. I'll be tuning in again soon!
Would not respond to my emails and questions. If you don't read he gets really mad.
my main problem is that Zoffel requires that you use a restrictive outline format for your speeches, thereby limiting your ability to be creative and think critically.
YOU HAVE TO READ! Doesn't reread in class, asks what you find interesting and lectures from there. Speeches follow a structure, but you have to bring an idea to explore. DO NOT TAKE HIM IF YOU DON"T WANT TO BE CHALLENGED! Read, show up, participate and YOU WILL LEARN AND LOVE HIS CLASS!
WOW, not a class, but a seminar or a book group! As we're talking, I get really nervous to share, but afterwards I feel like I was treated like I've got an opinion that is worth something. Other classes feel like hand holding and so Zoff classes can be difficult to do keep track of stuff because so much is on you. Worth taking!!!!!
Taking Communications with this professor is highly recommended. If you do your work in this class it will be one of your favorite classes to go to. The professor treats his students with respect and as equals. His is intellectually hot and a fun individual. If you are scared to take Communications this is the class to take.
As long as you go to class regularly you WILL learn something.Definitely changed the way I look at movies, tv shows, and other media outlets. The class really is what YOU make it. He is big on letting the students decide what they think is best for the class. More of a discussion than a lecture, but READ!!Discussions revolve around weekly reading.
avoid com 1 if you can. comm 2 and drama 10a fulfill the same general ed requirement as com 1 and they aren't as frustrating. P. speaking is neither a legitimate academic discipline, interesting, nor fun. Zoffel has poor social skills and babbles endlessly about every imaginable topic except how to do the assignments.
Mass Media was a difficult course but I learned so much! He's a good professor and he wants all of his students to succeed. If you attend class, do the reading, and participate, there is no way one could fail the course. He does go off topic but it can be entertaining at times. Take the class, it'll open your eyes to the world of mass media.
Zoffel is a very knowledgable teacher. The way the class is stuctured is as a seminar rather than lecture, but I cannot stress how important it is to do the reading. Regular reading quizzes are given to make sure you are actually doing your part. Miss those quizzes and you'll lose a lot of points. I reacommend this class, especially if a comm major
He never answers questions directly and enjoys talking down to his students. He spends lots of time in class telling you about himself, or using Facebook & Twitter to do his personal business. Tests are all from the book & he will not help you understand it at all. Expect to have to learn everything yourself and not to be taught by him.
Perhaps the worst person and teacher I have ever met in my life. He cursed and harrassed multiple students. It was a very easy course but not worth it. I have NEVER had a problem with a teacher until I met him. This class calls for your opinion however if that opinion doesn't match his own then you are wrong and always wrong.
Rude, arrogant, condescending, patronizing, belittling. Worst professor ever. If he's as great as he thinks he is, he should be teaching at a university and not a jc
His class is a breeze. If you want an A, this is it. Although he claims that the textbook is essential to success, that is not the case. I didn't read a single page of the textbook and got a 98%. Do the final project. 0 structure to the course. He's pretty arrogant, and his answers are very unclear when asked a question. Bad teacher.
he really wants you to enjoy the challenges of the class. Not sure if I laugh if I'm supposed to or if he actually is funny.
read the syllabus, make sure to call him, or go to office hours. You should have a good time. On a personal note, he's kinda professor hot, just sayin.
Not sure what the hate is about. You go to college to be challenged and learn, not get an easy grade. THIS IS NOT HIGH SCHOOL FOLKS! It's a shame that more teachers don't teach the way he does. Others its all they talk, I listen, regurgitate some material, BORING! This I've got to do some work!
If you like a teacher who is passionate about what they do(which you should) then it's a very enjoyable class, allot of participation. He incorporates personal experiences, and knowledge to relate to the class, and readings. He has a humorous, and sarcastic personality, not arrogant. He brings a fun energy, i really enjoyed the class!
Great class, commit yourself and prepare for a lot of work. Prepare for Zoffel story time
If you like clarity and an actual schedule do not take him. His class is not organized whatsoever. He always jumps around on due dates and I am having a hard time figuring out what is what and what is do when. However, he is very knowledgeable about his topic. Just read the chapters, go to his office hours and call him.
Professor Zoffel's class was highly unorganized and didn't offer much of a learning experience. There were brief moments of insight but they were few and far between. Unless you're interested in Comm theory don't take his class. He doesn't teach any sort of practical application of the subject, but he does focus on critical thinking which is useful
Professor Zoffel is incredibly passionate about this subject. If you are interested in learning about mass media, this is definitely your class to take. However, is is very belittling and rarely agrees with someone if their opinion is opposite of his-- which I think is unprofessional. An upside to this class is he is attractive.
Dr. Zoffel is extr. knowledgable and passionate. At a community college it is hard to find that passion. In order to do well. LISTEN. CALL HIM. MEET HIM FOR OFFICE HOURS. READ THE TEXT He makes himself available. Use that. he lets you call him WHENEVER. On a side note, he does get off topic, just redirect the convo. with a question.
Great professor! Keeps it simple and interesting! Helps students with a real passion!
One time he threw a teacher tantrum because we didn't do the reading. It was a great way to get out of class because he just left.
Everyone either loves or hates Zoffel. That's because he's not for everyone. If you care about ANYTHING or are passionate about ANYTHING take the class. He will do anything and everything to incorporate it into the lesson, just tell him. Do you care about getting a letter grade, putting in the least amount of effort? Take a different class.
Awful egotistical teacher.
Unlike many teachers, Zoffel truly cares about what his students take from his class-- you just have to care too.
Probably one of the most memorable classes I have taken. He gave the class 3 projects which correlates with your passion. As long as you do the work you should do fine. Keep in touch with the teacher about the assignment and you will do fine. As long as you follow the rubric and do the assignment, you're fine.
Dr. Zoffel is a great professor. I've read many of the negative reviews and they seem to be from the students who aren't adults yet. Yes, if you're all about structure, then this class and college is not for you. Zoffel treats all students as the adults we should be. But some of us just want it our way. This ain't Burger King. GREAT PROF!!!
This was a great class with a great teacher. He is fair and works with the class instead of being strict he actually treats us like adults. Not much homework just some reading but some critical thinking and discussion. One of the best classes I have taken at Sierra.
One of the most challenging and interesting professors I have ever taken a class with. Treats every student like an adult and makes every class enjoyable. you actually have to work to succeed in this class, so show up, contribute during class and do the reading. I would highly recommend Professor Zoffel to anyone. I wish he taught at Sonoma!
WOW, he really tries to get EVERYONE involved. He'll slow things down or speed them up depending on class discussions or students wants (this sucks sometimes as people just whine), but AWESOME teacher and great material. Wish we had more time.
Zoffel kept everyone engaged in discussion the whole time. HW assignments were fun. Extremely easy A if you put forth a little effort. If you desire outside-the-box classroom environment, Zoffels class is for you.
Cool prof, gives a sandbox for you to work in, totally feel ready to transfer to a 4 year. And like someone else said, he's prof hot. hehe
Zoffel changed the way I view my professors, my insituation, my rights as a student etc. he's made me realize how education should feel. Hands down the best teacher I've ever had. Yeah it's a work load, but you learn so much because zoff has so much to offer and he's passionate about comm. I wish I found him earlier in my sierra college experience
Dr. Zoffel is not the professor for everybody. If you are not soft and have a sense of humor, you will love his class. He is very intelligent and knowledgeable in his discipline. Class was very rewarding and one of the most memorable in my college experience.
The only reason he has a good rating: he writes them for himself. No joke, he does it in class. I had 3 courses with him & at first I was blinded by his coolness - AKA he cusses & seems kinda funny. As the semester went on it was clear he is self-important & egotistical. He's so insecure and sees his classes as personal therapy sessions. Avoid.
He seems frighteningly concerned with the fact that he doesn't have a chili pepper next to his name on here. Shares WAY too much of his personal life and justifies it by kinda sorta (but not really) making it fit into the coursework? He acts like he's available for help but when you ask him for it, it's difficult to get a clear response.
Not sure about the ego comments as he uses his own life as ways to understand course material which makes it way easier to grasp the theories (WHICH SUCK TO LEARN). Assignments are really straight forward, read, write, and do a project in ANY medium you want (Love making mini-films, so that was cool). Also, his chili-pepper hang up is hilarious!
This man was amazing, by far my favorite professor. His lectures are long and he doesn't need it, but he constantly promotes interaction from the students. If you need help or are confused about something his phone is always on and he has plenty of open office hours. As long as you show up, participate and try in his class you are going to do fine
Zoffel is an AMAZING teacher!!! By far the best teacher on campus!! If you are a student who hasn't or can't open your mind to a free way of thinking and you always NEED clear direction then he is NOT the teacher for you! Nick broadens your mind about how subjects in college should be taught. HANDS DOWN AMAZING AND HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!!
By far one of the most amazing instructors I have EVER had. He makes learning interesting. I enjoyed his classes the most while attending Sierra College. He allowed for class discussion to go in ways that the class was comfortable with. He is open to all discussions and can relate most anything to course content. Which was awesome.
I love this class! The first teacher at Sierra College that actually expects you to think critically. If you want an easy class move on. Lectures are more like class discussions, so come to class ready to participate. He's smart, hilarious, and hot!
he's hot, like intellectual hot. He's a great teacher. The class he teaches are straightforward; I totally was psyching myself out, then it just clicked, and EVERYTHING WAS EASY! Glad I went to office hours, thought SDSU was my world and by talking it out, realized that a SJSU or Eastbay would be a better fit (way better than the lame counselors)
Take if you love an intelligent teacher who allows you to be creative in all that you do, love class discussions, can think outside the box. Do not take if you are lazy, can't think for yourself, or immature.. All in all a great professor. I cannot say enough about this man. He had more of an impact on my life and academics than he will ever know!
Amazingly smart. Take! The end
I wasn't sure what to expect in the beginning of the class, but Zoffel is the most inspiring professor I've had in my almost 4 years at Sierra College. The only teacher I've had who actually cares what his students think and wants you to grow, learn something, and go out into the world an informed better individual. Keep it up Zoff!
By far the best teacher I've ever taken at Sierra. He truly cares about his students and he's very passionate about whatever communication course he is teaching. I really wish he'd teach at Sac State!
Zoffel might catch some flac for the way he talks to the class, but in the overarching scheme of things, he treats you like an adult and works with you if you have issues that prevent you from LEARNING, not preventing you from getting the grade you want. He cares about his students, and what his students think of him. It's refreshing. 1010 class.
Zoffel is the best professor I've had at Sierra College. I've never had a professor so passionate about his teachings and he is EXTREMELY HELPFUL!! If he asks if you have questions then don't be shy and say you do. Very open minded and intelligent man! You will learn so much! :)
I can say i didnt learn much about mass media but i did very much enjoy his lectures. he is a smart man and you can tell just by listening to him. but i would have enjoyed to learn more about what the course description explained. I would absolutely take another class with him. Hes a fun guy!
Makes you think critically and outside the box. Overall this class helps shape who you become in the world.
I've been having some personal issue. I know my problem, but that's where Zoffel's different...I didn't feel alone, I could share, AND he worked with me to use his assignments as a place for me to work through feelings of my situation. Kept things totally confidential and I was able to still finish his course. THANKS THANK THANKS ZOFF!!!!!!
Hey Dr. Zoffel. Just so you know I tried to give you a chili pepper, but guess what?? You just can't leave one on your page! hahahaha!!!!!! anyways, super cool professor and I absolutely loves that he tells it like it is. I think someone said it well before in one of these comments..."intellectually HOT"
Zoff's awesome, he's a great teacher who really tries to connect with students in a manner that focus' on their passions in relation to Communication- see Zoff no S :P
I've taken 2 of Zoffel's classes so far, and I expect to take more. He's been my favorite professor so far, he always has good stories and it's clear he genuinely cares about his students. Expect some reading and some writing assignments, but most of it is pretty easy.
His is a strange teacher, but exciting as well. I would guess you have never had his type of class before. You just never wanted to miss class.
He is a very interesting teacher. I love the way he thinks, it's so critical and realistic with a pessimistic undertone. Most of his views are very accurate of the world, he is not like the masses. Most students are too ignorant to comprehend the true meanings of his words but I understood. Great philosopher
350 characters isn't enough to write good a review for Nic. His class was amazing. You connect with students in the class, with Nic, and with yourself in a way you didn't even know existed. This class and his teaching philosophy will honestly change the way you see so many things. My only wish would be that I had taken more COMMs classes with him.
If you want someone to inspire you to be a better human being, take classes with Zof. Down to earth, no filler, and preparation for the world. Got an excuse? Take it somewhere else. Do your stuff, engage in discussion (it's a Comm class), and put some thought and effort into your work. You will do fine and actually learn something.
I worked and earned my grade. He saw something in me that I didn't think was possible. He promised that by the end of the semester we'd be better, faster, smarter, and more critical- TRUTH!
Zoffel is a great teacher who knows how to keep his class entertained. He is flexible with the final and saved my grade from plummeting. I absolutely recommend his class if you are a comm major.
I do not recommend him!
No Good!!!!!!!!!
Zoff really wants his students to grow and learn. He goes off on lots of tangents, but is always interesting and maintains relevance. Willing to work with you and adapt the course to your needs
Fun class, real-life applications, & clear expectations. Highly recommend!!
Nick is a G, amazing teacher will always be there for you if you need it! You have a reading guide do every week until the week after midterm, when those end, that's when you start building your final project. The FINAL is no joke take it serious. Other than those two assignments and showing up when he tells you, there is no other points given.
Professor Zoffel is the reason why I stayed as a comms major. He is by far the best teacher I think I've ever had. He truly inspires you as and wants you to be the best version of yourself. I took two different comms classes with Professor Zoffel at the same time, and he really changes your outlook on how you look at things. Highly recommended!
you either love him, or hate him. I loved his class. Great speaker, promotes critical thinking. Hands down best professor ever. Hard work never hurt anyone.
Amazing
rambles during lectures also unclear on scheduled criteria
Dr. Zoffel is one of those professors that inspires you from the very first moment. He genuinely cares about the field of communication and his students. His class isn't one where you show up for and want to bang your head against the wall for 90 mins. Every lecture is nothing short of amazing. He has a passion that other professors could learn.
If I could recommend one teacher to take at Sierra it's Nick Zoffel. I've taken Interpersonal Comm and it's the most exciting, inspirational, mind&eye opening, incredibly real experience I've ever had. You'll always want to go to class.
I've taken two of his classes before. To sum up how he teaches: thought provoking. If you're conservative, I wouldn't recommend him. He's super laid back & cares that you genuinely learn. Show up and participate; and if you can put aside your differences to actually learn and challenge yourself, you'll be fine. Otherwise he's a pretty solid guy.
Dr. Zoffel is a great Professor! You learn a lot from him and not just things that are from the book but real world things you will use for the rest of your life. He really cares about his students and makes sure you are understanding what he's teaching! Definitely a great human being!
Dr. Zoffel is a rare kind of professor. If you put in the work the class will likely be the most rewarding learning experience you've ever had. But you have to care, you have to want to learn and engage and grow. If you're the kind of student who is only going to college to get a degree, don't bother. You won't enjoy the class, it's not for you.
Very smart guy, but sometimes too smart. Don't take his class if you're sensitivite feelings. Speech class so lots of work not doesn't like you to have homework so gives you all class to work on it if he doesn't talk at you the whole time. Which he claims he doesn't do.... be prepared to focus, not an easy A
Very knowledgeable and passionate about the subject, although he's got an ego the size of Mars. Coursework and speeches are pretty straightforward although I would advise doing proper research on a subject or he will call you out in front of the class. Other than that; show up, put in effort, do you stuff on time and you'll be fine.
Very knowledgeable about communication and has a very thought provoking way to show it in discussions. Always ready to meet and help you out with any questions about communication as a major if you're thinking about it as well as, lectures and readings. Genuinely good human being who is very understanding, inspirational and has my full respect.
THIS IS COLLEGE! If you ever read this stuff Zoff, Thank you for never insulting my intelligence. Thank you for seeing more in me than I ever saw in myself. Thank you for giving me opportunities to find my value. I didn't always understand, but now I'll never expect less than the best of myself or other professors. We all deserve no less!
His lectures confused me a lot. They're stories but supposed to relate to the topic. He would go off on tangents a lot too. He's really smart and very interesting. I liked him but I didn't really learn anything. I kind of passed the class easily. Gets into circles- tries to have people talk in a circle.
This is not your usual class. Zoffel has a way of teaching that may be intimidating to those used to traditional classroom teaching, but believe me when I say he is the best professor Ive had in a while. I dont have enough characters to describe, but I highly recommend him. Even if comms is not your major take him. Hes the best around.
Zoffel is the worst if you prefer structured and clear grading criteria. He does have an ego the size of mars as said by a previous review, and rambles for a majority of the class if asked one question. Assignments and attendance happens when he feels like it should, like rain in California, you'll never show up when he has an attendance sheet.
look, some professors try to give an educational experience but mask it in busy-work. HE IS NOT THAT KIND OF PROFESSOR! Read, because he will extend the reading in a way that his courses will INFECT your life. #soannoying #awesome
Zoffel is like the Yoda of communications. He doesn't treat the class like a stereotypical class. You can tell he's really engaged and loves comm. I get how people can not like him (probably lazy or not their major), if so, the Jedi life is not for you. I wish I could've taken most of my comm classes with him. If you're a good student, take him.
Comm 2. Not your usual class setting, talked a whole lot about ideas and philosophies; it was a free for all, no topic was too taboo. With that being said, your ideas may be stretched and challenged. It was a healthy and safe space to learn, though, if willing. Zoffel is super bright, never seen a prof build such great relationships with students.
I feel like we started off the class pretty organized, and as time went on it became more and more disorganized. He made class really entertaining, always encouraged everyone's input, and had good discussions. However, a lot of times lecture felt like a waste and after a while many stopped coming. The exams were different and easy, (only 2), no hw.
Zoffel has been my favorite professor since day one. He believes so strongly in the abilities of his student and creates a learning environment more unique than any other that I have experienced. I strongly recommend taking classes with zoff; it's something I believe all Sierra students should do to enrich their education.
I was struggling with anxiety/panic attacks severely during this semester due to a messy divorce and I was going to drop this class because I couldnt bring myself to stand in front of class and do my speeches. I told him and he allowed me to video myself and he was so accommodating and caring. Im forever thankful.
Class Info
Attendance Mandatory
63%
Textbook Required
60%
Grade Predictor
Your expected effort level
Predicted Grade
A-
Grade Distribution
Common Tags
Rating Trend
Improving
+0.22 avg changeRatings by Course
70
5.0
(1)INTRO1
5.0
(1)08
5.0
(1)COMMS70
5.0
(2)COM70
5.0
(4)Difficulty by Course
COM15COM30
5.0
COMMS1
4.5
INTRO1
4.0
COM30
4.0
COMS
4.0