3.0

Paul Tomolonis

Economics - University of Connecticut

3.0
Quality
4.0
Difficulty
43%
Would Retake
119
Reviews
3.0
Quality
4.0
Difficulty
3.0
Helpful
2.9
Clarity

43%

Would Retake

119

Reviews

Rating Distribution
Official

5

35

4

16

3

16

2

21

1

31

What Students Say

He 'talked' at us instead of teaching

ECON2202 - 1.0 rating

He has his own teaching method which includes no homework and completely optional quizzes, but your entire grade is dependent on the final

ECON1202 - 1.0 rating
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

28%

Textbook Required

31%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

B+

95% confidence
Based on 78 grades
Most common grades:
A (24)
B (18)
Not sure yet (18)
Grade Distribution
A(26)B(21)C(2)D(5)F(3)A-/B+(22)
Based on 99 reported grades
A: 24
B: 18
Not sure yet: 18
B+: 12
Common Tags
Gives good feedback (19)
GRADED BY FEW THINGS (14)
Test heavy (14)
Caring (13)
Lecture heavy (13)
Respected (12)
Participation matters (12)
Tough Grader (11)
Rating Trend

Declining

-0.63 avg change
Apr
May
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Last 6 months
Ratings by Course

ECON2411

5.0

(3)

EC211

5.0

(1)

ECON238

5.0

(1)

ECON3416

5.0

(2)

ECON3422

3.9

(15)
+7 more courses
Difficulty by Course

ECON2202

5.0

MARCO 2202

5.0

2202

4.3

ECON2411

4.3

ECON1202

4.1

Reviews (119)
5.0
4.0
ECON2202
May 6, 2010

Paul is the BEST econ professor I've had at uconn by a long shot.If you really want to learn, take his class. He can seem cold at first but hes really a great guy and very nice. Very receptive to suggestions made by the class. All around great guy. BUT, he is a DIFFICULT grader. You MUST know the material or you will get a C at best.

5.0
3.0
ECON2202
May 31, 2010

Paul has a keen BS detector. If you simply parrot facts or recite arguments given in class (or the textbook), your grades will reflect a lack of understanding. Furthermore, if you posit an independent thought, be prepared to support it. He rewards students who participate thoughtfully, so don't be shy. Take his class, but heed my words. Good luck.

4.0
5.0
ECON1202
Mar 14, 2011

He's a decent teacher and is pretty nice, but he grades assignments at an extremely nitpicky level. Also participation is a tremendously large part of your grade don't take him. If you are like me and dont like speaking up twice a class your grade will reflect it (he keeps track of when you participate). Overall good teacher, grading is frustrating

5.0
5.0
ECON2411
Sep 25, 2012

Overall one of the best professors I have had. He really wants you to learn what he is teaching. He doesn't use a textbook which is frustrating because his teachings are kind of just whatever comes to mind for him at the time. Extremely hard grader. Great teacher, but don't expect a good grade. Even top tier students shouldn't expect an A

5.0
5.0
ECON2411
Dec 12, 2012

Paul is the best professor I have had at UConn, he goes above and beyond to help you. He is a very hard grader, but if you speak in class and get to know him he rewards you. If you want an Econ professor who will actually teach you, take his class.

5.0
3.0
ECON2411
Grade: Not_Sure_Yet
Aug 19, 2013

One of the best econ professors I've had. He teaches everything slowly and allows time for students to ask questions. He constantly teaches off of a sort of map that he draws on the board, which he always puts up before class. No textbook use and he's really in tune with UConn culture. I hope the last few Econ classes I have are with Paul.

5.0
4.0
ECON2202
Oct 16, 2013

Probably the best professor I've ever had. Really cares about his students and is really loves economics. He will work you hard, but in the end, I honestly think I learned so much more than I ever had in a previous class, and information I won't forget. Take his class if you truly want to learn.

5.0
4.0
EC211
Apr 11, 2015

He REALLY knows what he is talking about when it comes to economics, so if you are a beginner, you may fall behind fast. He talks so fast. He is very accommodating, and encourages you to reach out to him at any point you have a question whether it is in class or via email, and his email responses are usually prompt. But he is TOUGH.

5.0
4.0
ECON3422
Apr 16, 2015

Paul is hands down the BEST proff I've had at UConn. Teaches using constant, real time examples. Even if you forgot EVERYTHING from Macro, he is willing to reteach you step by step after class. Great class for learning, NOT an easy A. Or B. Attendance mandatory, but so worth it. Has genuine passion for inspiring productive and innovative workers.

5.0
2.0
ECON3422
May 11, 2015

Professor Tomolonis actually cares about each of his students! He will not weigh you down with meaningless assignments. He has conversations with students to make sure everyone understands the material. Intelligent & friendly guy! If you have the opportunity to take this class DEFINITELY do it! You will actually learn a lot and you won't regret it!

5.0
4.0
ECON3422
May 18, 2015

Lectures are a bit disorganized, but really wants you to understand the material. Very approachable, and rewards you if you try to go the extra mile. Participation is graded, and he is a tough grader in general

2.0
5.0
ECON2202
Oct 26, 2015

Paul is a cool, respectable guy, but his expectations are absolutely ridiculous. The class average in the class is currently in the high 50s. His lectures are painfully long, plus his notes are EXTREMELY messy. Moreover, he talks really fast. Quizzes are nearly impossible, the writing portion is okay however. Would not recommend.

1.0
5.0
2202
Grade: F
Oct 27, 2015

Yeah, Paul is cool and all but the level of difficulty in this class is crazy. The average an F!!!!!! I would NOT reccomend this class (econ 2202) with him. EVER

1.0
5.0
2202
Grade: D+
Oct 27, 2015

IMPOSSIBLE TO PASS

1.0
5.0
ECON2202
Grade: D
Oct 27, 2015

Unclear grading criteria, makes weekly quizzes harder than impossible and allows an 8:45pm class to carry over until nearly 10pm some weeks, due to the difficulty of the weekly assessments. It's really a miserable class. Paul does not want his students to succeed. The man is smart as a whip, but has no sympathy or understanding for undergraduates.

1.0
5.0
MARCO 2202
Grade: D-
Oct 27, 2015

The class structure is as follows: Painfully long lecture followed by a weekly (impossible to pass) multiple choice quiz and a one page writing assignment on the theory and/or macroeconomic models. Extremely difficult professor. Is approachable does not care about you passing or failing. The econ department should be concerned about this.

1.0
5.0
MARCO 2202
Grade: F
Oct 28, 2015

Class structure is confusing. He assigns weekly assessments relative to the class but unworkable as an undergrad with no experience in econ other than the principles courses. The class average is a 59 however he continues to say that if your grade is relative to the class average you will be ok. Its not fair to those who need to pass for the major

5.0
3.0
ECON2202
Dec 15, 2015

The most helpful professor I've had at UConn, cares about his students doing well and really wants to help everyone think like economists would in the real world, rather than just memorizing pointless info. MC quizzes were to keep people on their feet, but your progress and the final where you show your understanding of material is bulk of grade.

3.0
5.0
ECON2202
Dec 16, 2015

do not, I repeat, DO NOT sign up for Econ 2202 with Paul. or any class. he's a very smart guy, but his teaching is not effective. talks extremely fast, is unclear at times, doesn't give good feedback, and he is a tough grader. tough as in the class average by the end of the course was a 65. quizzes are nearly impossible. in all seriousness, AVOID.

4.0
4.0
ECON2202
Grade: B-
Jan 5, 2016

No structure to the class at all. He would refer back to the models and his notes on the board instead of using a book. He seems to know the material well but doesn't come very prepared to teach, also late three times which is a lot considering class only met once a week. Interesting material, would recommend taking with someone else. Odd grader

2.0
5.0
ECON2202
Grade: B
Jan 14, 2016

Material revolved around two growth models, Solow and Human Capital, and not much else. Repeats a lot of the same concepts so you master only a few topics. If I could go back in time there's no shot I'd take this course with him, find another professor. Compared my graded work with other students', concluded he must just pull grades out of a hat

3.0
4.0
ECON3422
Grade: B+
Jan 20, 2016

Nice guy but lectures are not structured. Repeats the same stuff every week but goes over it very quickly. You will have terrible grades all semester (in class writing, online quizzes) but the final is what matters.

1.0
4.0
ECON2202
Grade: B+
Jan 23, 2016

Not a good professor. He 'talked' at us instead of teaching. I don't even know if he knows what he was talking about. All over the place and unorganized during lectures and then gives extremely hard quizzes. Grades harshly. I would not take another class with him nor would I recommend anyone take his class.

3.0
5.0
ECON2202
Grade: C-
Jan 23, 2016

Regret taking this class with him. Learned nothing and this is my major

2.0
5.0
ECON1202
Apr 22, 2016

Paul seems like such a great guy. His grading criteria is extremely vague and his teaching techniques are also unclear. However, he will provide you with feedback on how you are doing. He is certainly not an easy teacher - would recommend taking it with someone else.

1.0
5.0
ECON1202
Grade: C+
May 2, 2016

Extremely hard quiz and end with a long essay in the final, feel impossible to get even a b? Taking his course is the worst decision made since come to uconn

3.0
5.0
ECON1202
Grade: Drop/Withdrawal
May 5, 2016

Lectures were extremely dissorganized. He talks 'at students' instead of 'to students'. Weekly one page essay quizzes are graded harshly and final is all that matters. He is very approachable outside of class and willing to help. Will say that he is very engaging even in a lecture hall, but you will have to work.

2.0
5.0
ECON1201
Grade: Not sure yet
Dec 16, 2016
Wouldn't take again

Definitely knows the subject however he's extremely disorganized, lectures are mostly him talking really fast about multiple things at once and his quizzes are almost impossible to pass. The final is all that really makes your grade

Tough Grader
Get ready to read
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
1.0
4.0
ECON1201
Grade: A
Jan 9, 2017
Wouldn't take again

He speaks very quickly in lecture and he is very difficult to keep up with. The online textbook is pretty much useless. Almost everybody fails every quiz. The final matters the most, but he wants to see that you tried the other assignments. He is very interested in your analysis in the essays and he does not want you to regurgitate definitions.

Tough Grader
Gives good feedback
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
1.0
5.0
ECON1202
Grade: Not sure yet
Mar 27, 2017
Wouldn't take again

Paul is a really funny dude until it comes down to your grade and he's then laughing at you. He is such a hard grader and this class is awful. The quizzes and essays throughout the semester are optional and although its nice at the moment, it really sucks when your grade relies on one paper. Don't take this class.

Skip class? You won't pass.
Hilarious
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
2.0
4.0
ECON1201
Grade: B+
Apr 4, 2017
Wouldn't take again

He expects you to learn from the book. Gives in-class essays that you can work on with a group (not too bad). Gives online quizzes (that you'll likely fail) yet mean nothing in terms of your grade. Your whole grade is pretty much your final exam, in which you to write what you learned in the class (vague much?) and some supply/demand graphs.

1.0
3.0
ECON1202
Apr 19, 2017
Wouldn't take again

No idea how he grades. Gives a blank paper for final and tells you to write down whatever you learned in the class. Too vague while teaching. I think he is overqualified for this principles class.

5.0
4.0
ECON3422
Apr 26, 2017
Would take again

By far the most intelligent professor I've ever had at UCONN. His International Finance class was incredibly informative. As long as you are willing to work hard and pay attention you will learn more in this class than every other econ class combined. I highly suggestnyou take his course if you are serious about becoming an economist.

Tough Grader
Respected
Inspirational
5.0
3.0
ECON1202
Grade: A-
May 24, 2017
Would take again

This dude is the man, he gives real world topics and integrates them into class. He's comical and if you talk to him out of the classroom he will be more than available to help you out.

Gives good feedback
Respected
Amazing lectures
5.0
4.0
ECON1202
Grade: A
Jul 25, 2017
Would take again

Went from C's on my essays and failing every quiz to getting an A on the final and in the class. He gives great feedback, and I really learned the information. He can be intimidating, but he's super easy to talk to one on one.

Gives good feedback
ACCESSIBLE OUTSIDE CLASS
LECTURE HEAVY
1.0
4.0
ECON1201
Grade: B
Oct 31, 2017
Wouldn't take again

Paul's class was honestly one of the worst I have ever taken. To start, his grading policy was abismal. He gives no real explanation and over time it becomes more and more clear that the only thing that matter is the final. He gives vague writing assignments where noone knows what to write, and if you ask, he'll call you out as an inferior student.

Tough Grader
BEWARE OF POP QUIZZES
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
1.0
5.0
ECON1201
Grade: Not sure yet
Nov 8, 2017
Wouldn't take again

-40% of class is classwork and he will replace bad grades (lots). This means REALLY hard quizzes (class average on the 1st was a 43, second was a 69) and thesis papers. The thesis papers are not required except they are part of the... -60%: Final. Write about what you learned in an unclear paper Also, bad lecturer, online textbook does not help

Tough Grader
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
LECTURE HEAVY
1.0
5.0
ECON1201
Grade: Not sure yet
Nov 9, 2017
Wouldn't take again

Horrible lecturer, for the first month, he essentially gave the same lecture twice a week as he did the first day. He refuses to teach the material in a quantitative manner, with graphical and mathematical examples (which makes econ far easier). To top it all off, your entire grade is based off an incredibly vague final. Worst professor I've had.

Skip class? You won't pass.
SO MANY PAPERS
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
2.0
5.0
ECON1201
Grade: D
Nov 11, 2017
Wouldn't take again

Paul comical in class and accessible when you want to talk to him. However, I learned almost nothing the entire semester. He does not teach like normal professors. An extremely hard grader. Final is impossible, gives you a blank sheet and says to write. Would not recommend unless you are trying to lower your GPA. Absolutely ruined my GPA

Tough Grader
ACCESSIBLE OUTSIDE CLASS
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
1.0
4.0
ECON1202
Dec 7, 2017
Wouldn't take again

He has his own teaching method which includes no homework and completely optional quizzes, but your entire grade is dependent on the final.

Tough Grader
Gives good feedback
Skip class? You won't pass.
3.0
5.0
ECON1201
Grade: B
Dec 15, 2017
Would take again

Prof. Tomolonis stresses the final as the main part of the grade. There are a handful of optional quizzes and thesis prompts to try and balance it out but still, the final exam makes or breaks your grade. He definitely stresses the conceptual side of microeconomics having students write papers with an economic thesis and applications in the world.

Tough Grader
Gives good feedback
LECTURE HEAVY
4.0
3.0
ECON1201
Grade: B+
Dec 15, 2017
Would take again

Overall this dude is an amazing professor, although the topic is a little hard to understand in depth, he makes sure to help anyone out if possible. Whatever you put into this class you will get out of it meaning if you participate and get involved in class discussions and take notes you'll be ok. Funny guy as well

Gives good feedback
Participation matters
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
3.0
3.0
ECON1201
Grade: A-
Dec 21, 2017
Would take again

I struggled with this class in the semester. It was a different style of teaching, no assignments are required, it is up to you... Your final (an essay) could be your only grade. I was not a fan of the teaching, there was no structure. But if you follow what he says you will succeed, if you do not you have to work very hard in the end.

3.0
4.0
ECON1202
Grade: A-
Jan 14, 2018
Wouldn't take again

Definitely has the most unique teaching style of any professor I have had. Final was to explain what you learned in the class, and if you get a higher grade on it than you did on the quizzes (which you are almost guaranteed to fail) and small writings, he will make that your final grade. Very repetitive (purposely), but I did learn a lot.

Skip class? You won't pass.
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
LECTURE HEAVY
5.0
4.0
ECON1202
Grade: A
Jan 16, 2018
Would take again

Brilliant professor dedicated to applied economics and creative pedagogy. Believes students should learn fundamental economic theory well enough to critically and analytically assess real-world economic conditions. One of the best professors at UConn!

2.0
3.0
ECON1201
Grade: B
Mar 23, 2018
Wouldn't take again

The entire class grade is based off of a 300 word essay for your final. My two friends and I memorized the same paper and got a B+, B-, and C+ so his grades are all over the place. Definitely plays favorites, just make sure you ask questions and he will like you. Not a hard class just really annoying and unorganized/inconsistent with grading

Participation matters
BEWARE OF POP QUIZZES
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
1.0
4.0
ECON1202
Grade: B
Mar 27, 2018
Wouldn't take again

PLays FavORites, entire grade was dependent on the the final and he grades hard. He needs to know your name for you to do well...

Tough Grader
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
5.0
4.0
ECON238
Grade: B
Apr 3, 2018
Would take again

I was a senior in 2012 and took Paul's Money & Banking course. He is a very knowledgeable, and has a unique way of teaching it. He spent time taking questions and giving comfortable answers regardless if you were completely off or not. What he was teaching at the time, I took for granite, although I learned a lot.

Respected
Participation matters
ACCESSIBLE OUTSIDE CLASS
1.0
5.0
ECON2202
Grade: B
Apr 20, 2018
Wouldn't take again

The worst professor I met in UCONN. His teaching style is unique, and not suitable for most of students. Students learned nothing from his class, and the average grade for quizzes is very low, just about 50 percentage. Avoid him class!!! Its a disaster.

Tough Grader
TEST HEAVY
4.0
5.0
ECON2202
Grade: Not sure yet
Apr 25, 2018
Would take again

Students who complain are dependent on slides they can breeze over/memorize and then take a MC test. His slides are there for support, but your participation structures what you learn. Discussion based class. Gives you multiple opportunities to practice in class writing to prepare you for the final and gives good feedback.

ACCESSIBLE OUTSIDE CLASS
Hilarious
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
5.0
3.0
ECON2202
Grade: Not sure yet
Apr 25, 2018
Would take again

quiz is intended to be difficult so you can bring more questions/discussion topics to class. if u do better on quizzes, that avg is ur grade, if you do better on final, all quizzes are erased. class IS NOT boring. Final Ex: A-if u include diff. thoughts, B-if u only reciprocate lectures, C-if your understanding is off, D/F if u write nonsense.

Gives good feedback
Participation matters
Hilarious
4.0
4.0
ECON2202
Grade: B
May 13, 2018
Would take again

Paul is awesome! He cares about his students but he wants you to understand, not just memorize. Quizzes and in-term essays meant to prepare you for the final paper. Work on the material to understand and you'll do fine.

Gives good feedback
Hilarious
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
5.0
4.0
ECON2202
May 25, 2018
Would take again

Professors like Paul are the reason I came to a school like UCONN. I find myself thinking like an economist after just 1 semester. I am currently looking up leading indicators on a Friday night at 10pm, figured I would give him a shout out. He inspired me tremendously. Take if you are serious about this Economics thing

Respected
Inspirational
Amazing lectures
5.0
4.0
ECON2202
Grade: B
Sep 23, 2018
Would take again

Offers a very different class structure than most, where you final is a paper on what you've learned over the semester and it is essentially your only grade. I learned more in this class about topics that were in more specific econ course. He challenges you to really understand how everything works together. No flashcards, no cramming. Great guy.

GRADED BY FEW THINGS
Amazing lectures
Caring
5.0
2.0
ECON1201
Grade: A
Dec 11, 2018
Would take again

Input Output. His beliefs on the free market are reflected in his laissez-faire teaching style. If you attend class, write about the material, and "connect the dots" you will earn your A. Not for students reliant on memorization or textbooks. This class is for people who can think dynamically. If not, don't worry. Paul will provide good feedback.

Gives good feedback
Inspirational
Amazing lectures
4.0
4.0
ECON1201
Dec 16, 2018
Would take again

Professor Tomolonis was a pretty good professor. Work involves writing essays about Microeconomics and making real-world connections. He cares about the students who try hard. If you take this class make sure to reach out to him with questions or participate in class, he will give you a better grade.

Tough Grader
Gives good feedback
ACCESSIBLE OUTSIDE CLASS
5.0
2.0
ECON1202
Grade: A
Jan 17, 2019
Would take again

I initially strongly disliked Paul's teaching style, but I came to understand what it meant to take control of your learning and not be completely reliant on a professor spoon feeding you multiple choice exams to get your degree. The quizzes are just to get you thinking, and the final is actually very easy if you attend class and take notes. 8/10

Participation matters
Inspirational
ACCESSIBLE OUTSIDE CLASS
5.0
2.0
ECON3422
Grade: A
Jul 10, 2019
Would take again

Amazing professor, his teaching style is unique, and it worked well for me, but for some that may not be the case. I've absorbed a ton of information, and I would absolutely take him again if you have the option. Remember, it is a college class, if he sees you putting in the work, it will be turn out okay :)!

Respected
Skip class? You won't pass.
Hilarious
5.0
4.0
ECON3422
Jul 15, 2019
Would take again

The fact that he is an adjunct professor is a joke. By far the best professor I have ever had at UCONN and the University is missing out by not having him part of the community 24/7.

Respected
Amazing lectures
Caring
1.0
5.0
ECON1201
Grade: Not sure yet
Sep 17, 2019
Wouldn't take again

Terrible prof. So unclear and unorganized. Class has 0 structure, or even a schedule. There is no textbook for supplemental info if you're confused. He doesn't lecture in the order of his slides. Also is very inaccessible outside the classroom. Basically you are on your own, he sets students up to fail so that's great.

Skip class? You won't pass.
Graded by few things
Lecture heavy
1.0
5.0
ECON1201
Grade: F
Nov 21, 2019
Wouldn't take again

Horrible. He doesn't answer any emails and is not accessible outside of class whatsoever. No TA to go to for help. No structure to his class and no textbook either. If you do not come in with prior knowledge of economics do not expect to pass. Did not receive any grades until more than halfway through the semester so impossible to judge achievement

Skip class? You won't pass.
Graded by few things
Tough grader
5.0
3.0
ECON1201
Grade: A
Dec 19, 2019
Would take again

Paul isn't like most professors. There isn't necessarily a clear structure in comparison to other classes, but he reiterates the important concepts every class so you have a general idea of what's going on. He literally wants to see all his students win and as long as you make an effort to learn the concepts, he takes notice and will help you pass.

Gives good feedback
Hilarious
Caring
5.0
4.0
ECON2202
Grade: A
May 13, 2020
Would take again

One of the best economics professors I've had so far. I came out this class with a better understanding of economics than from my previous economics classes. Quizzes are tough but they are intended for you to really learn the material, which plays a huge role when you write your final essay at the end.

Gives good feedback
Inspirational
Amazing lectures
1.0
3.0
ECON3422
Grade: B
Sep 12, 2020
Wouldn't take again

this guy is a jerk, good luck getting a email response from him tbh. The class is interesting but he really doesn't care about his students/talks down to them. the opposite of caring and I'm saying all this and have not even struggled in the class

Clear grading criteria
1.0
4.0
ECON3422
Grade: Not sure yet
Nov 18, 2020
Wouldn't take again

This is the most disorganized professor I've ever had. There's no textbook, no clear course outline or calendar. The class Average is a 60%, his quizzes are open note and don't have a time limit but he purposefully makes them very confusing. On top of all this he rarely replies to emails and talks down to students.

Graded by few things
Test heavy
Lecture heavy
1.0
4.0
ECON3422
Grade: Not sure yet
Dec 8, 2020
Wouldn't take again

Professor Tomolonis does not care about his students or their learning. He is so disorganized, using the same 100+ slide powerpoint every lecture and the only graded assignments were 6 quizzes and the final, which is an essay. The current class average the week before finals is a 60 which says it all about this course. Avoid it at all costs.

Graded by few things
Lecture heavy
Tough grader
1.0
5.0
ECON1201
Grade: B
Dec 16, 2020
Wouldn't take again

Worst professor I've had so far. Tomolonis is awfully rude to his students and gets mad if you email him too much. The class average for his final exam was around a 50 which shows how hard he makes his work. He is so hard to contact and has the most confusing lectures out there. I would never recommend anyone to take his class.

Tough grader
4.0
3.0
ECON3422
Grade: B+
Jan 28, 2021
Would take again

At first many people may not like this Prof class bc he is unorganized and you may thinking "this is so confusing I'm going to fail"as I did. But once you settle into the class not only is the material very interesting but it becomes less stressful bc he won't let you do bad if you show you care. tough at first but a GREAT prof and U learn a LOT

5.0
4.0
ECON3422
Grade: A
Mar 24, 2021
Would take again

One of my favorite professors at UConn. Extremely knowledgeable and teaches very well. Quizzes are hard but he does provide curves and goes over them. 10/10

Gives good feedback
Respected
Clear grading criteria
1.0
5.0
ECON1202
Grade: B
Dec 15, 2021
Wouldn't take again

He is the absolute worst professor I have ever had. He makes the quizzes and final exam impossible and uses the same presentation slides the entire year. He talks in circles and is not willing to help out his students who are struggling. He has no care for them and provides no other resources to help you pass.

Tough grader
4.0
4.0
ECON1201
Grade: A
Dec 19, 2021
Would take again

If you put the work in to speak during lectures and participate Tomolonis will return the favor. He made an effort to know his students personally, and would always offer extra help after classes. There is only quizzes and not homework but he goes over them during class in discussion. The material is very difficult but he offers a great curve.

Gives good feedback
Participation matters
Caring
5.0
4.0
ECON3422
Grade: A
Dec 22, 2021
Would take again

Prof. Tomolonis challenges you to think like an economist. His style of teaching differs from other professors which can intimidate some students. However, you will learn a lot from him. He is also willing to work with you and is even flexible with your grade as long as you show improvement. Very inspiring and just really wants students to learn.

Gives good feedback
Participation matters
Inspirational
3.0
4.0
ECON1201
Grade: A
Dec 23, 2021
Wouldn't take again

Weekly quizzes worth 60% of the grade and the final was 40%. Overall, hes very knowledgeable about economics and he encourages questions during class. He doesnt keep a good flow during lecture and it can get quite boring sometimes. The final was open resource, along with all the quizzes during the semester. Nice guy, not a great lecturer.

Graded by few things
Test heavy
4.0
2.0
ECON1201
Grade: A
Dec 23, 2021
Would take again

Paul is very controversial. He lectures every class catering to the class's needs/questions without a direct topic for every class. Quiz once a week that you can quite literally ask him the answers to, but he won't give a direct answer. His big thing is thinking in "economics" for yourself. Strongly suggest asking a lot of questions to do well.

Accessible outside class
Participation matters
Caring
5.0
4.0
ECON1201
Grade: B
Jan 4, 2022
Would take again

Fav prof so far. Truly cares about students & gears lecture towards what the class is struggling with. Weekly quizzes (open for a week & can work with others) and the final, all open note. Content can be confusing so I found lecture recordings helpful. Takeaways: do well on quizzes & put in the work throughout semester, don't wait until the end.

2.0
4.0
ECON1201
Grade: B
Jan 22, 2022
Wouldn't take again

Weird class. Weird grading. I think I finished with a 60 and it ended up being a B. Curve! Class average might have been a 65ish. No textbook. Same 70 slide PPT. Only 6 or 7 quizzes plus the final. If I ended with a 60 I would probably have much worse things to say. But I can't complain with a B after it all. He also does not respond to emails!

5.0
3.0
ECON3422
Grade: A
Jan 23, 2022
Would take again

One of my favorite professors at uconn. Had a very small class and he was willing to carefully explain anything that was unclear to an individual student when asked during and after class time. Very interactive Professor who makes going to class and learning fun. Quizzes are designed to challenge overall knowledge and large relative curve is added.

Respected
Hilarious
Caring
1.0
5.0
ECON1201
Grade: A
Mar 29, 2022

Bad professor, would go over the same presentation and was a bad presenter. Everyone always bombed his quizzes, but he would always curve it a lot. Would never take again and learned nothing.

3.0
4.0
ECON3422
Grade: B
Oct 20, 2022

hes a good professor but wow you have to really work for your grade. people would bomb their quizzes and he would always curve them. He gives an option for the final to either write a paper or take a multiple-choice exam

2.0
4.0
ECON1201
Grade: Not sure yet
Nov 14, 2022

Professor Tomolonis is a nice guy but so boring. Everyone flunks his weekly tests but he curves them insanely.

2.0
4.0
ECON1201
Grade: B+
Dec 1, 2022

Interesting teaching style that I didn't necessarily like or understand. Great guy, terrible professor. He made material hard to understand and had weekly quizzes that most people just guess on and hope for the best. He does curve the quizzes usually which helps some but I would steer clear of this class if you actually want to learn.

Tough grader
Participation matters
Test heavy
1.0
5.0
ECON1201
Grade: Not sure yet
Dec 1, 2022

Everything is very unclear in this class which makes the weekly quizzes very confusing. It is very hard to take notes, and the powerpoint he uses is very unorganized. There are weekly quizzes that are very hard to understand and interpret what is expected. However, he does give a good curve; its the only thing that kept me from actually failing.

Participation matters
Lots of homework
Lecture heavy
2.0
4.0
ECON1201
Grade: B
Dec 9, 2022

Most disorganized professor I have ever had. The syllabus had minimal information about what your grade would be comprised of, and the weekly quizzes are irregular and confusing. I have put lots of time into each quiz and have not done well. Although he does curve everything, it's not worth it. Super nice guy, terrible professor.

1.0
5.0
ECON1201
Grade: A
Dec 18, 2022

Professor Tomolonis is a nice person, but horrible teacher. He shows genuine interest in having students succeed, but makes it extremely difficult with lectures and text irrelevant to the weekly quizzes. Questions are cryptic and vague; any choice could be right with different thinking. Learned nothing about economics but the curve saved my grade

Caring
Lecture heavy
Test heavy
2.0
5.0
ECON1201
Grade: B+
Dec 22, 2022

This was a very challenging class for me. I went to basically all the lectures but I soon realized after the 2nd quiz that the lectures werent really helpful to answering the weekly quizzes. The slides were confusing and it felt like he just repeated the same thing every class. He does heavily curve everything but i didnt end up learning anything.

Test heavy
Accessible outside class
Online Savvy
4.0
3.0
ECON1201
Grade: B-
Dec 22, 2022
Would take again

I'm not gonna lie I don't think I ever will understand economics but he definitely takes the time to explain things and will keep going over it if you have question. He is also the curve goat. If it wasn't for his curves I probably would have finished his class with a D- instead of a B-. He wants you to understand the concept that's why he curves.

Clear grading criteria
Respected
Accessible outside class
2.0
4.0
ECON1201
Grade: B
Jan 18, 2023

The weekly quizzes were extremely difficult to understand because they were based on his wording of things instead of what economics is. He would explain the same thing 50 different ways, he talks in circles, and is very vague with his answers. The curve saved my grade. He's a great guy but I would recommend a different prof for this class.

Tough grader
Graded by few things
4.0
3.0
ECON1201
Grade: A
Jan 23, 2023

Paul Tomolonis is hilarious. His grading made no sense and seeing I got an A at the end of the semester was more shocking than if I had seen an F. This guy literally does whatever he wants.

Test heavy
Graded by few things
2.0
5.0
ECON1201
Grade: A
Apr 25, 2023

I am not a huge fan of his teaching style and the way the quizzes and exam questions are presented are confusing and difficult. He is a nice professor but the way he teaches is very boring and lacks engagement. He does have a heavy curve however and all the quizzes/exams are open notes/open resource so there is a positive.

Tough grader
Lecture heavy
Test heavy
1.0
5.0
ECON1201
Grade: A-
Oct 4, 2023

Please do not take this class with this professor, if youre looking to get good grades or understand micro, this aint the class to take. I took this class and the daily quizzes were like 6-7 per week, with no consistent schedule. On top of that, the quizzes were extremely difficult, vague, and subjective. The lectures were a philosophy class.

Graded by few things
2.0
3.0
ECON2202
Grade: Not sure yet
Nov 7, 2023

I feel so lost with Professor Tomolonis. We have a daily quiz every week and he goes over the math in class, but I often get lost. He tries to get you to figure it out on your own but ends up confusing you more. I am very nervous for the 40% final as the rest of the class has seemed like a complete toss up. I feel very stupid in this class.

Lots of homework
2.0
4.0
ECON1201
Grade: A
Dec 13, 2023

Make things way more difficult and complicated than things has to be. He did this as a way to make us prepared for the real world but if anything it just left me more confused as to what I was supposed to know. Did good on the quizzes but that's because I had to put so much effort and office hours into this class. Mr. Clean was not a good teacher.

Test heavy
1.0
5.0
ECON2202
Grade: Not sure yet
Dec 16, 2023

DO NOT TAKE THIS CLASS WITH HIM. IF YOU DO... GOD SPEED AND YOU BETTER PRAY

Lots of homework
Lecture heavy
Test heavy
1.0
5.0
ECON2202
Grade: B+
Dec 18, 2023

awful just awful

Lots of homework
Test heavy
Online Savvy
3.0
3.0
2202
Grade: B+
Dec 21, 2023

Tbh I feel kind of bad for Paul. He is cool and wants his students to succeed. I think he just struggles to have a structured outline and testing students on said structured material. He is smart, but is sporadic in the content. He ended up curving our grades so we all did well which I appreciate I just wish I came out learning more.

Test heavy
3.0
4.0
ECON1201
Grade: A-
Dec 27, 2023

Alot of the material is easy to understand, aside from a few hard concepts and he talks in circles pretty often. Nice guy, and he's pretty funny. My advice is GO TO THE LECTURES and think about the material outside of class. He's passionate about economics. I ended my grade with A-. AMAZING CURVE, and I did learn a lot.

5.0
3.0
ECON2202
Grade: A
Jan 19, 2024
Would take again

Y'all munchies are trippin. I straight up got a 15% on my final but the curve was fricking legit busting. He is a great professor and is always available after class. His lectures teach you about economics, not how to solve questions. deez. Take this class, Paul curves the grades like my banana that's rotting in my cabinet. deez. deez.

Hilarious
Caring
Respected
1.0
5.0
ECON2201
Grade: A-
May 27, 2024

He was literally the worst professor I've ever had. Everyone failed the final (that was 60% of the grade) so he had to curve it. The average for the final was a 7%. I would drop out of college before I took one of his classes again.

3.0
5.0
ECON1201
Grade: Incomplete
Oct 18, 2024

He is a really nice guy, but as a teacher, its extremely lecture heavy. Notes will be taken based off what he is saying, not what is being presented on the board. He gives reasonable grades on assignments because he wants you to do well, but the assignments/ online quizzes are on a very inconsistent schedule. About 2-3 quizzes per week.HW difficult

Gives good feedback
Lecture heavy
Graded by few things
4.0
2.0
ECON1201
Grade: A-
Nov 12, 2024
Would take again

Paul clearly wants his students to succeed. If you go to his office hours and actually speak to him, he will do anything you need for understanding. He cares about his students and is passionate about the material being taught. He can ramble, but he is very understanding and will go the extra mile for his students.

4.0
3.0
ECON1201
Grade: B+
Dec 11, 2024
Would take again

I think he was great. You can go to the lectures if you want, but they are recorded. He also is very understanding if you miss a quiz or homework and is super easy to reach out to if you have questions. The lectures were never boring, he actually applies the economics to the real-world which I appreciate, and overall is a good person.

Caring
Respected
Lecture heavy
3.0
4.0
ECON1201
Grade: B-
Dec 12, 2024

He is passionate about economics. The final is 40%. He is a yapper, big big yapper, so sometimes I lost a point of what is important and what was not. He is a very nice guy though. 50% of the grade are quizzes(hw). Personally, i didn't like those. Textbook is mandatory for hw. Attend lectures and you should be fine though.

Caring
Lecture heavy
5.0
3.0
ECON3416
Grade: B+
Dec 16, 2024
Would take again

Takes time to grasp his teaching style. Weekly curved quizzes, recorded lectures, no midterm — just a final paper. Pass by writing a solid paper connecting class concepts with real-world examples. Great professor; be prepared to take notes and write well.

Participation matters
Gives good feedback
Lecture heavy
2.0
3.0
ECON1201
Grade: B
Dec 17, 2024

He is confusing and inconsistent. He says conflicting things; never acknowledges it. Every day is 10 minutes of reviewing the current status of the grading curve which is mind numbingly boring.Then current events; his first semester using a textbook-THANK GOD. In Oct. the optional essay wouldn't hurt our grade in class, then said it could.

2.0
4.0
ECON1201
Grade: A-
Dec 19, 2024

Never responds to emails. Talks a good game "I care" "I want you to succeed" I found that not to be the case. Super confusing. All over the place. Jumped around and mumbled. He gave quizzes that were incorrect and the entire class (and tutoring center) would struggle for hours, he never admitted it. Said he took homework late, then got annoyed

Lots of homework
5.0
2.0
ECON3416
Grade: A+
Jan 9, 2025
Would take again

Professor tomolonis is the best professor at UConn, funny, respected, and charismatic. Special problems in money and banking is the only class I truly learned in. Anyone in business/econ should take this course. Class is fairly easy with weekly online quizzes and one final paper. If you show up to class you will learn a lot.

Gives good feedback
Hilarious
Respected
4.0
3.0
ECON1201
Grade: A
Jan 22, 2025
Would take again

Definitely has a unique teaching style. The quizzes were a bit confusing, but he curved depending on how the class did. Homework, quizzes, and exams were all online, therefore open notes. I didn't go to too many lectures, nor read the textbook. As long as you thoroughly read the class notes, you should be fine.

Lots of homework
Test heavy
5.0
2.0
ECON1201
Grade: A
Jan 22, 2025
Would take again

Admittedly, the quizzes can be confusing and I struggled with them, especially when each quiz started having two questions. He's very willing to talk to students, though, and will help you on the quizzes if you ask. Some questions on the online homework can be frustrating, but there are unlimited attempts (at least when I did them).

Participation matters
Accessible outside class
3.0
4.0
ECON1201
Grade: B+
Feb 6, 2025
Would take again

Professor T. can be confusing, but goes the extra mile to ensure understanding. His heavy curve helps - Unstuckstudy was a lifesaver for preparing. Attend lectures, stay engaged, and you'll learn a lot.

5.0
3.0
ECON2201
Grade: Not sure yet
Apr 3, 2025
Would take again

Great professor, can sometimes get confusing about what will be on the quizzes. Great personality and cares about your success.

Gives good feedback
Caring
Accessible outside class
2.0
2.0
ECON2201
Grade: A
May 2, 2025

Mumbles through lectures, 16 (!!) in person quizzes throughout the semester, consistently late to class.

2.0
3.0
ECON2202
Grade: Not sure yet
Sep 24, 2025

the reason I am switching my major.

1.0
4.0
ECON2201
Grade: Not sure yet
Oct 20, 2025

First Midterm, 40% of the class failed. 56% of the class got below a D+. His practice quizzes are NOTHING like the exam. Total waste of time and completely throws you off. Then has the audacity in class to say "This isnt a me problem, but a You problem". Meanwhile have his class basically failed. Thanks Professor.

Lecture heavy
3.0
5.0
ECON2201
Grade: Not sure yet
Oct 23, 2025

Generally, I think he's a nice guy. But, the way the course is taught is confusing. The midterm which a-lot of the class didn't do well on was nothing like the in person quizzes he gives weekly. He also consistently shows up late which isn't great for a 50 min MWF class. I don't think the class is inherently difficult but could be taught better.

Tough grader
Test heavy
3.0
3.0
ECON1201
Grade: A-
Nov 10, 2025

I found his three-question quizzes confusing, but doable. I do wish we didn't do them so often, though. We do them once/twice a week. He curves everything extremely heavily, so it's hard to do poorly. His lectures can be long-winded, but he does a decent job of explaining, if you actively take notes on his lectures and pay attention. Good person.

Beware of pop quizzes
Caring
Accessible outside class
5.0
3.0
ECON1201
Grade: A+
Dec 6, 2025
Would take again

Paul is a very good Professor; he is very knowledgeable and engages with the class. He is always up for helping the students, and what I liked most about his teaching was that he connected concepts to real-world examples, which made the material easier to understand and much more engaging

Clear grading criteria
Caring
Test heavy
2.0
4.0
ECON2201
Grade: Not sure yet
Dec 11, 2025

Currently studying for his final going in completely blind. No discussion about it in class, no idea if its cumulative, question format, calculator, etc. Emailed him 4 days ago, no answer. I have never had a professor who was so consistently disorganized and vague. He is a nice guy but absolutely should not be a professor in higher level classes.

4.0
4.0
ECON2201
Grade: A-
Dec 11, 2025
Would take again

Professor Tomolonis is a solid professor, in my opinion. Admittedly, he can be confusing at times and unclear, but he is always willing to help you as a student, especially if you engage in his class. He does curve generously, too, and allows for corrections, even on the midterm, to help boost your score. He really cares about you as a student!

Lecture heavy
4.0
4.0
ECON2201
Grade: A
Dec 16, 2025
Would take again

Super nice professor, however his teaching style is extremely confusing at times. It's hard to follow along with what's going on, but if you're able to keep up to pace, and put in the work outside of class to better understand the material, you'll be fine. He curves heavily, and exams are usually pretty similar to the material given on quizzes.

Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

28%

Textbook Required

31%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

B+

95% confidence
Based on 78 grades
Most common grades:
A (24)
B (18)
Not sure yet (18)
Grade Distribution
A(26)B(21)C(2)D(5)F(3)A-/B+(22)
Based on 99 reported grades
A: 24
B: 18
Not sure yet: 18
B+: 12
Common Tags
Gives good feedback (19)
GRADED BY FEW THINGS (14)
Test heavy (14)
Caring (13)
Lecture heavy (13)
Respected (12)
Participation matters (12)
Tough Grader (11)
Rating Trend

Declining

-0.63 avg change
Apr
May
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Last 6 months
Ratings by Course

ECON2411

5.0

(3)

EC211

5.0

(1)

ECON238

5.0

(1)

ECON3416

5.0

(2)

ECON3422

3.9

(15)
+7 more courses
Difficulty by Course

ECON2202

5.0

MARCO 2202

5.0

2202

4.3

ECON2411

4.3

ECON1202

4.1

Similar Professors