2.5

Tamara Marsh

Biology - Elmhurst University

2.5
Quality
4.6
Difficulty
28%
Would Retake
120
Reviews
2.5
Quality
4.6
Difficulty
2.5
Helpful
2.5
Clarity

28%

Would Retake

120

Reviews

Rating Distribution
Official

5

19

4

23

3

15

2

11

1

52

What Students Say

Marsh is by far the worst professor I have ever had

BIO221 - 1.0 rating

Literally the hardest class I've ever taken

BIO221 - 3.0 rating
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

77%

Textbook Required

36%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

B-

95% confidence
Based on 55 grades
Most common grades:
C (11)
B (8)
A- (7)
Grade Distribution
A(5)B(11)C(20)D(12)F(1)A-/B+(12)
Based on 68 reported grades
C: 11
B: 8
A-: 7
Drop/Withdrawal: 6
Common Tags
Lecture heavy (34)
Tough grader (34)
Test heavy (31)
Tough Grader (21)
Skip class? You won't pass. (18)
TEST HEAVY (11)
LECTURE HEAVY (8)
Graded by few things (8)
Rating Trend

Declining

-1.19 avg change
Feb
Mar
May
Aug
Nov
Dec
Last 6 months
Ratings by Course

BIO250251

5.0

(1)

BIO414

5.0

(1)

BIO301

5.0

(1)

BIO100

4.7

(3)

BIO250

4.0

(2)
+17 more courses
Difficulty by Course

22101

5.0

22102

5.0

105557

5.0

BIO

5.0

MICRO01

5.0

Reviews (120)
5.0
4.0
BIO250
Dec 5, 2002

No Comments

4.0
5.0
BIO100
Feb 28, 2003

No Comments

1.0
5.0
BIO
Feb 23, 2005

horrible teacher; doesn't teach well at all; doesn't listen to suggestions

4.0
4.0
BIO250LAB
Mar 11, 2005

I only had Dr. Marsh for the lab portion of my biology 250 class, but she was always willing to help our lab group out and clarify what needed to be done and never made us feel dumb :-P

2.0
4.0
MICRO
May 24, 2005

I thought she was a ****. She didn't want to be bothered with questions EVER. Fairly hard class. One of those classes when half the students drop. I suggust taking it at another school since she is the only micro teacher.

5.0
2.0
BIO250251
Aug 30, 2005

really nice, passionate about her subject. Tries to make material interesting and not bore her students to death. Great to chat with

3.0
4.0
BIO250
Dec 12, 2005

No Comments

3.0
4.0
BIO216
Nov 17, 2006

Very hard class. She loves the topic but isn't always the most clear about what she expects in assignments. If you have a question about something, ask it. She will clarify and often teach it again from a different perspective. Pay attention to questions and answers between students and her becauase she will include them in the tests.

3.0
3.0
BIO105
Nov 18, 2006

um lets see, study your @$$ off for the exams they are very dense and have lots of confusign questions..shorts answers are pretty easy though. I'm no a science person and found the first half of the semester to be okay but then she decided to give us 3 projects all at the same time over thanksgiving break..wtf

5.0
4.0
BIO100
Apr 24, 2007

She is really good at getting information across, I got so much out of the class lectures. She made sure to include really interesting content in lectures, and involved the class.

1.0
5.0
MICRO01
Jun 27, 2007

tests are unreasonably hard-

4.0
4.0
BIO105
Jul 10, 2007

105 was taught like it was 450, rediculous, the only class I could not pull off an A in and it was a stinkin gen ed. I was a hard worker and completed extra credit, but that wasn't enough for her. She argues with students and has the mentality of a junior higher. In our whole class, the highest grade was an 87.

1.0
5.0
MICRO216
Jul 17, 2007

unless extra points are given - it seems like- appears as if more than half the class withdrew or failed

1.0
5.0
BIO219
Nov 13, 2007

It seems as if students who did not drop class received extra points- appears that way.

5.0
5.0
BIO414
Nov 13, 2007

Great teacher, but HARD.

4.0
5.0
BIO216
Dec 7, 2007

Excellent professor. Really knows what she's talking about. If you work really hard, you can get a good grade!

4.0
5.0
BIO216
Jan 5, 2008

She is a nice person, but she could be harsh at times. All i have to say is work really hard if you want to pass this class. It is not easy to get an A in this class. But Marsh is very helpfull if you go to see her personally.

4.0
5.0
BIO216
Dec 8, 2008

Very nice woman. Very helpful when speaking to her one-on-one. Exam questions are tricky. Make sure to write down everything she says and study every little detail. Try to stay on her good side.

4.0
3.0
BIO105
May 26, 2009

I felt this class was hard for a 100 level class. The tests were hard and you need to study hard for the tests. An A is possible in the class with lots of hard work. Dr.Marsh is nice and is willing to help with students.

3.0
4.0
FYS101
Oct 26, 2009

make sure you do the readings

3.0
5.0
FYS100
Nov 19, 2009

Dr. Marsh teaches like a highschool teacher. She yells at people who talk to other students even if it's about class. For our tests, the class average was D(62%). She throws material not covered in class into the test. Take extreme notes if you decide to take

2.0
5.0
FYS100
Nov 19, 2009

High School all over again. She never explains what is on tests, and our class average is a whopping 62%. Enough said.

4.0
5.0
BIO216
Feb 2, 2010

Bacteriology was very challenging with Marsh, but any bact. class is going to be difficult. Be prepared to dedicate many hours each week to studying, even if there isn't a test. Tests have some questions that are tricky, but mostly straight forward. Learned a ton in this class. Try to answer questions in class, she will like that.

1.0
1.0
BIO216
Feb 8, 2010

Bacteriology should have been a interesting course....instead this teacher (who is still using technology from the 1960s) did little to peak a student's interest or instill any confidence that she even understood the material she was teaching. An easy A but you really do not receive any tangible benefit from attending her classes other than BOREDO

3.0
5.0
BIO216
Apr 19, 2010

She is very hard, take good notes and always bring your lab book even though you don't use it every day she gets mad and calls you out if you don't have it. If your online quiz did not work she doesn't care. She is pleasant only when you go to her office for questions. She is content with the low class average. And get ready to study.

1.0
5.0
105557
Apr 25, 2010

Terrible teacher. Tests were extremely hard and way too much work for a 100 level gen Ed. 3 big projects at the end of the semester. She thinks you only have her class work to do....

3.0
4.0
BIO105
May 7, 2010

Too many projects for a 100 level class. She is a good teacher in that she definitely knows the information and what she is talking about, but she treats students like crap. She needs to learn how to talk to people.

5.0
3.0
BIO100
May 20, 2010

I liked her! I think she was really funny, extremely intelligent, and very helpful. She did assign a group project that I did not enjoy but overall, I think she's fair and very understanding. She tells you exactly what is going to be on the tests as long as you go to class. I don't like bio and I got an A; study and pay attention and you'll be fine

1.0
5.0
22101
Sep 9, 2011

Lectures are chaotic nothing is structured or organized. Her class is a huge waste of money, you have to do EVERYTHING on your own she provides nothing but a disorganized lecture

1.0
5.0
22102
Sep 9, 2011

Lazy/ horrible professor, class is based on describing microscope slides. she draws a hand written picture and makes you find your own picture online for each and every slide. does not provide you w neccesary material to succeed at all!

4.0
2.0
FYS100
Jan 10, 2012

i took troubled waters with professor marsh and she was awesome. i was very interested in the topic before and she made me extremely interested after. she was kinda helpful. but wasn't clear about what was on the midterm. LOVED HER though! 1 short paper, 1 midterm, no assignments. i recommend :) VERY INTERESTING.

3.0
5.0
BIO221
Oct 4, 2012

She is very nice and very helpful. She wants you to pass her class, but makes you work for it. She knows what she is talking about and willing to answer questions.

3.0
5.0
BIO105
Dec 10, 2012

Environmental Biology is very difficult. The projects she assigns are very vague, but if you're looking for a science class that isn't heavy on science, this is it. Dr. Marsh rarely follows the syllabus, and jumps around the chapters,so studying for tests is very difficult.

5.0
4.0
BIO321
Jun 24, 2013

Overall, Dr. Marsh is an excellent professor. But, she does make Microbiology extremely difficult. Each test had one or two questions about topics which were never discussed in class or the textbook. Anyways, I learned a lot from this class, and the labs were really fun. (That comment about the labs is not sarcasm.)

5.0
5.0
BIO221
Jan 7, 2014

Overall Dr. Marsh is extremely knowledgable about the subject. She does not mess around when it comes to testing and labs. Be ready to put all your effort into the class. If you are interested in learning things you've never thought about before you will LOVE Marsh and the class. Just be a good student and she'll like you.

5.0
3.0
BIO301
Grade: B
Feb 4, 2014

Prof Marsh is very thorough in her lectures. She knows a lot about the subject and makes it really fun to learn. Classes are primarily discussion oriented so beware if you're more introverted. Assigned readings are also pretty long. Overall a fun class if you're willing to put the time and effort.

4.0
5.0
BIO221
Sep 17, 2014

I would say Dr. Marsh is extremely knowledgeable about the subject. She gives good detailed notes and that is all you really need to study for her tests. I never bought the book just memorized the notes. You have to work really hard for the grade that you want both in lecture and in lab. This is not the class to slack off in Go in for help

4.0
5.0
BIO221
Jan 13, 2015

Dr. Marsh really knows her stuff. Her expectations for a 200 level course are somewhat outrageous, but you will leave the class with the knowledge required to pass NCLEX. You will hate her at some point during the semester, but if you stay focused and do your best work you should pass. Exam questions are tricky and lab quizzesexams are brutal.

3.0
5.0
BIO221
Grade: B-
Feb 23, 2016

Literally the hardest class I've ever taken. It's not like the material is hard by any means, but the fact that she has intense short response lab quizzes every week, unknown labs, and extraordinarily hard exams makes this class hell. If you are a nursing major, take this at a community college instead. Marsh is helpful but the class is impossible.

2.0
4.0
BIO221
Grade: Audit/No Grade
Oct 14, 2016
Wouldn't take again

She over prepares you in lectures both in lab and normal class. As much as you study you most likely won't get an A. Studied 30 + hours for her first exam got a low C. Her lab is awful, you have timed quizzes every week. Her lectures sometimes feel like they don't correspond with the quizzes. She is rarely their to help doesn't like being bothered

Tough Grader
Skip class? You won't pass.
LECTURE HEAVY
1.0
5.0
BIO221
Grade: Drop/Withdrawal
Oct 14, 2016
Wouldn't take again

Marsh doesn't even know hot to study for her own exams so that lets you know how difficult her quizzes and exams are. You can have a quiz wednesday, exam friday, and a practical monday she expects you to be prepared. Her expectations are outrageous.

Tough Grader
Skip class? You won't pass.
LECTURE HEAVY
1.0
5.0
BIO221
Grade: C
Nov 9, 2016
Wouldn't take again

Take it over summer. You will not enjoy your semester. It's hard to do work for other classes it's like she only thinks we take one class a semester. Her exams are bogus and awful help at lab. If you need this class, then TAKE IT OVER SUMMER!

Tough Grader
Skip class? You won't pass.
TEST HEAVY
3.0
4.0
BIO221
Nov 22, 2016
Wouldn't take again

Lecture is clear and I liked the way she took notes on the board on whats most important. In lab, she is barely ever there once she's done explaining what we have to do. If you have questions to ask her, she'll give you attitude and make you feel stupid. This class will require A LOT of studying. But if you do study properly, you should do well.

Tough Grader
Skip class? You won't pass.
TEST HEAVY
1.0
4.0
BIO221
Grade: C
Apr 17, 2017
Wouldn't take again

Setting all feelings aside, she's a great person. She definitely knows her stuff but the one thing that kills everyone - and the most important thing- is her quizzes and exams. She doesn't prep you properly in my opinion. When you ask her questions her response feels misleading. Her tests are very hard, prepare to study A LOT and get a low grade.

Tough Grader
Skip class? You won't pass.
TEST HEAVY
1.0
5.0
BIO221
Grade: C
May 1, 2017
Wouldn't take again

For lab be prepared to be mind blown. Her first 3 quizzes are easy but after that there was no preparation that could help you. She insists she doesn't try to trick you but if you look over her multiple choice, it is very super tricky. P.S. Pigs are not vectors

Tough Grader
Skip class? You won't pass.
TEST HEAVY
3.0
4.0
BIO221
Grade: B+
Jun 19, 2017
Would take again

Dr. Marsh is a very educated instructor who knows the subject very well. Study the material the day you learn it and do not skip any piece of information. Keep separate notebooks for lab and lecture and a folder for handouts. She's available for help in person or by email. It's difficult but not impossible and you must work for the grade you want.

Tough Grader
Gives good feedback
LECTURE HEAVY
5.0
4.0
BIO221
Grade: A-
May 18, 2018
Would take again

Dr. Marsh is an amazing professor, but you are going to work hard. You have to know the material backward and forward. Study for the lab quizzes. You will need every point you can get. Lectures are very interesting. Beware the packets!

Tough Grader
Skip class? You won't pass.
Amazing lectures
1.0
4.0
FYS100
Grade: B
May 21, 2018
Wouldn't take again

I had to take this class because it is required and the time fit best for me. She graded only a few things and everyone would fail her tests and she would still blame us and the social worker in the class even did not always agree with her. As my advisor, she is nice. But if you have the choice to have her as a teacher, choose someone else.

Tough Grader
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
LECTURE HEAVY
1.0
4.0
BIO221
Grade: A
Jun 26, 2018
Wouldn't take again

Dr. Marsh is by far the worst professor I have ever had. She does not care about helping her students. If you ask her a question she will belittle you in front of the whole class and then won't even answer it. Exam questions are ones she has never said before. The fact that Elmhurst College keeps her, made me lose a lot of respect for the college.

Tough Grader
Skip class? You won't pass.
1.0
5.0
BIO221
Jun 30, 2018
Wouldn't take again

This instructor does absolutely nothing to help you pass the class, and complicates things to help you fail. Professor makes herself scarcely available and gives you no added support or resources, handouts, homework, or PowerPoints to improve your learning. Attempts to be very intimidating and speaks disrespectfully to her students.

Tough Grader
Get ready to read
TEST HEAVY
2.0
4.0
BIO221
Grade: D
Aug 20, 2018
Wouldn't take again

This professor is a super tough grader. Be prepared for a lot of studying and memorizing. She was never available during lab when we had questions. She is always very because, so it's often difficult to meet her after class. Make sure to write down everything she says in both lab and lecture, and be sure to record her lectures, she talks fast!

Tough Grader
Skip class? You won't pass.
LOTS OF HOMEWORK
2.0
5.0
BIO321
Grade: D
Aug 20, 2018
Wouldn't take again

Dr. Marsh has specific expectations and it feels like if you don't meet them then you are dead to her. She doesn't offer much help outside of class and the feedback she provides is not useful in correcting your mistakes. After taking this class with her it pushed me to change my major.

Tough Grader
TEST HEAVY
LECTURE HEAVY
1.0
5.0
BIO221
Grade: B
Oct 12, 2018
Wouldn't take again

Do not take Marsh. I attended Elmhurst College for four years and she was by far the most insensitive, unhelpful professor that I had. She makes being successful in her class nearly impossible. Not to mention, she leaves lab half the time and if we have any questions she almost gets annoyed and makes us figure it out ourselves. Literally the worst.

Tough Grader
TEST HEAVY
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
1.0
4.0
BIO105
Oct 16, 2018
Wouldn't take again

Dr. Marsh makes BIO 105 way harder than it needs to be. Classes are lecture heavy, and exams are too specific and difficult for a 100 level course. Studying, labs, and other assignments make this class more time consuming than most 300/400 level classes. I would not recommend taking Dr. Marsh, especially if you just need a science tag.

Tough Grader
Participation matters
LOTS OF HOMEWORK
1.0
5.0
BIO221
Grade: Drop/Withdrawal
Nov 4, 2018
Wouldn't take again

Steps to passing Microbiology: 1. study. every single day. even if you think there is nothing to study for. even for lab. 2. choose a good lab group and always be in contact with them. communication is key 3. make charts before reading lab results to be organized. 4. talk to Marsh with any questions and utilize the tutor. 5. no crying in mb

Tough Grader
Skip class? You won't pass.
LECTURE HEAVY
2.0
4.0
BIO105
Grade: Rather not say
Jan 14, 2019
Wouldn't take again

She would talk all about her daughters everyday and then not get through the material. Her tests were impossible. She was also irritated when you went in for help. Not a good teacher at all.

Tough Grader
TEST HEAVY
LECTURE HEAVY
1.0
4.0
BIO105
Jan 24, 2019
Wouldn't take again

Teaches from a powerpoint the whole time. Half of the things that she "says" are true, you can google and find out they aren't. Her tests are super difficult and cover material that she either didn't get to or says we needed to "teach ourselves the topic." Terrible teacher and doesn't care about your grade.

Tough Grader
TEST HEAVY
LECTURE HEAVY
1.0
5.0
BIO105
Jan 29, 2019
Wouldn't take again

A lot of labs, hard tests, a lot of lecture, don't even bother buying the book it's not worth it.

Tough Grader
Skip class? You won't pass.
LOTS OF HOMEWORK
1.0
5.0
BIO105
Grade: D
Jan 29, 2019
Wouldn't take again

Dr. Marsh is an extremely hard teacher. Don't take for J-term! You will die. She expects you to be studying every hour you're not in class. She's not helpful,makes you feel like a failure. She takes off points on tests with no explanation, tests are nearly impossible, no chance for extra credit either. 100 level class treated like a 400/500 class

Tough Grader
Skip class? You won't pass.
TEST HEAVY
1.0
5.0
BIO105
Feb 8, 2019
Wouldn't take again

The labs are VERY time consuming . She gives NO study guides for test and puts info never covered in class therefore making them IMPOSSIBLE. She treats the class like a 400 level course and feeds us INACCURATE INFO. If you want to get the LS tag done quick, take this class, but you'll HATE it and BARELY pass. DO NOT BUY THE BOOK!

Tough Grader
Skip class? You won't pass.
TEST HEAVY
1.0
5.0
BIO221
Grade: D+
Aug 18, 2019
Wouldn't take again

I took it in Spring. When she came to class the first day, she said"I am 100% sure that I will see most of you guys in the summer term". She makes the lectures and labs hard. Never used textbook, but she wanted us to record her lectures (65mins) and rewrite them. I took it in summer at a community college and got "A" grade. She is not reliable.

Test heavy
Lecture heavy
Tough grader
1.0
5.0
BIO105
Grade: Drop/Withdrawal
Oct 18, 2019
Wouldn't take again

She doesn't seem to care about her students until they stop caring. She doesn't answer emails and is perturbed when a student needs a little extra care and help. I know more about her 2 daughters than I do course material. She doesn't understand that college life is hard and we have multiple courses to focus on. She doesn't help outside of class.

Test heavy
Lecture heavy
Tough grader
4.0
4.0
BIO221
Grade: A-
Dec 7, 2019
Wouldn't take again

Dr. Marsh is definitely tough and she makes students work hard but you learn a lot. And she genuinely does want to help, when you meet with her she tries every way possible to give advice and tips on how to study and get a better grade. It takes a lot of effort to study and taking a credit less will help make time for her class.

4.0
4.0
BIO221
Grade: B+
Dec 17, 2019
Would take again

She goes out of her way to help students by hosting review sessions each week. She has her days when she isn't in the best mood but who doesn't? Overall she's nice. The class is material heavy so study in advance. I could've finished w/ an A- if I studied more. Make sure to only take three classes and study a lot. If you study a lot you'll pass

Gives good feedback
Clear grading criteria
Caring
4.0
5.0
ES100
Dec 17, 2019
Would take again

Dr. Marsh wants only the best for us and truly cared about her students and she is hilarious! She teaches with good energy, and gives us all the information we need on the exams, you just need to take good notes and participate. She will go out of her way to help you if you ask and show you care !! Over all, shes an amazing professor.

Hilarious
Amazing lectures
Test heavy
4.0
5.0
BIO221
Grade: B
Apr 26, 2020
Would take again

Marsh is an amazing teacher, as she knows what she's talking about. You have to work very hard to succeed. She expects you to know the material like the back of your hand, and she expects nothing less than dedication. To put it simply, she doesn't put up with any bs. I'd take her class if you really want to learn & are willing to put in the work.

Skip class? You won't pass.
Lecture heavy
Tough grader
1.0
5.0
BIO221
Grade: C+
May 11, 2020
Wouldn't take again

If you have to take this class, do whatever you can to be able to take it at a community college. I am typically a straight A student but this class was almost unbelievable. At the start it is not bad but it just gets worse and worse. Most overwhelming class I've taken in my life.

Test heavy
Tough grader
1.0
5.0
BIO221
May 11, 2020
Wouldn't take again

There are quizzes every week and the tests are very hard, almost every question on it is to trick you. You have to record every lecture and she will ask you the tiniest details about each topic you learn. If you have to take it at Elmhurst, I highly recommend making the rest of your schedule easier to be less stressed. Expectations are ridiculous.

Lots of homework
Skip class? You won't pass.
Tough grader
4.0
4.0
BIO321
Grade: A-
May 11, 2020
Would take again

I won't lie that this class wasn't hard, but it was a cool class overall. Lab is fun. Exams are extremely difficult, especially when you get into different bacterial families and have to know a lot of details. She's strict but she does care. Just don't expect any shortcuts.

Lecture heavy
Caring
1.0
5.0
BIO221
Grade: D
May 14, 2020
Wouldn't take again

A TON of memorizing in this course. You NEED to know every single piece of information. Not going to lie, hardest course I've taken in my life. She knows her stuff and teaches to her best ability but can be rude at times. Just know to study everyday and don't be afraid to meet with her for help or explanation. Start off strong, it gets very hard.

Tough grader
1.0
5.0
BIO221
May 20, 2020
Wouldn't take again

Definitely the hardest class I have ever taken, I would recommend taking it at a community college. Microbio in general is not hard, however this professor does everything she can to make every quiz and every test hard as possible. The amount of material she expects her students to know is ridiculous. Do yourself a favor and don't take this class.

Skip class? You won't pass.
Tough grader
1.0
5.0
BIO221
May 21, 2020
Wouldn't take again

Honestly, microbiology as a class is not hard if it were taken at a community college, but this professor seems like she wants you to do well, but in the end her personality overcomes her teaching skills and discourages you. I wish she were more considerate to her students. Only take this class if you are ready to get dragged into dirt.

2.0
5.0
ES100
Grade: C
Jul 16, 2020
Wouldn't take again

Took an intro level course that she co-taught. Her portion of the class was long lectures and hard tests. Youre expected to read through five chapters and then take a test on it with no clear study points. Hope you remember that definition or the date of some random event that shes never deemed important. If you like learning and passing, avoid.

Get ready to read
Test heavy
Lecture heavy
1.0
5.0
BIO221
Grade: B
Sep 4, 2020
Wouldn't take again

Worst feeling ever: Being scared going to class, because she will discourage you and set you up for failure. She told me straight off the bat that science isn't meant for me and I need to change my major just because I was struggling in her class. There's so much studying and she expects you to know every single detail. BEWARE YOU'VE BEEN WARNED!!

Lots of homework
Test heavy
Lecture heavy
1.0
5.0
BIO221
Grade: C
Oct 20, 2020
Wouldn't take again

Hardest teacher I've ever had. Gets off topic and then tries to finish the lecture last minute. Leaving us to have to figure it out on our own. Very hard grader most of the class were hanging on to pass.

Skip class? You won't pass.
Test heavy
Lecture heavy
5.0
5.0
BIO451
Feb 28, 2021
Would take again

She gets a bad rep because she does have hard courses, and while I didn't like her at first I discovered quickly that if you put in the work and actually talk to her when you have an issue/are confused, she'll go out of her way to help. She makes you think and realize answers on your own, which I think helped much more than just memorizing facts.

Get ready to read
Lecture heavy
Caring
5.0
4.0
BIO221
Grade: C
May 18, 2021
Would take again

Dr. Marsh is an amazing professor who absolutely wants the best for you. Microbiology is a super hard class wherever you take it but if youre gonna take it with her you are incredibly lucky, she is a hard grader but know her intentions are well and she is only preparing you for the real world. Dont be afraid to approach her, she is on your side!

1.0
5.0
BIO216
Nov 8, 2021
Wouldn't take again

Great person, bad professor. I have never had to work this hard in any of my classes than this class. One of her rules in class is "no crying". Good luck!

Participation matters
Skip class? You won't pass.
Lecture heavy
1.0
5.0
BIO451
Oct 20, 2022

STAY AWAY! Dr. Marsh has been the worst professor I have ever taken, her exams are completely out of this world difficult, and not to mention her true personality is very bitter and rude. If you ask her a question shes not helpful but will give you attitude and act arrogant, not to mention it takes her at least 4-5 business days to reply to emails.

Tough grader
Graded by few things
1.0
5.0
BIO221
Grade: C-
Oct 24, 2022

She's the most horrible teacher I've ever met. Her grading sucks, so you better be prepared yourself to waste your nights studying so you can fail your quizzes

1.0
5.0
BIO451
Nov 18, 2022

WORST WORST WORST Professor I have ever taken in my life! Never have I worked so hard in a class only to fail everything she grades. Very ridged and cold personality, she seems bothered when you ask her for help and is very unapproachable. Do yourself a favor and find another professor by all means!

Tough grader
1.0
5.0
BIO451
Grade: C-
Dec 14, 2022

Gives too much information without finding a way to make it all understandable. Will give you a whole chapter's worth of information two days before an exam. Sometimes spends class time talking about her personal life for long tangents. She once left class for almost an hour saying we should teach ourselves something to then teach it to us later

Lecture heavy
Test heavy
Graded by few things
2.0
5.0
BIO221
Grade: Drop/Withdrawal
Jan 20, 2023

Marsh is an extremely harsh grader and professor. Class relies entirely on her lectures, with the only given material being words out of her mouth, which is what you will be tested on, with the tests being the majority of the graded material (there isn't a lot). So if you miss something, good luck! Figure out the labs, and as she says "no crying"!

Tough grader
Lecture heavy
Graded by few things
3.0
1.0
FYS100
Grade: B
Jan 23, 2023

This class is mainly taught by films and the students themselves. The professor would rarely teach the material herself. Lacked passion in the topic. Class is very easy though and doesn't require much effort. She is very unclear when it comes to prompts for papers which can lead to a lot of confusion.

1.0
5.0
FYS100
Grade: C-
Nov 23, 2023

The worst professor I've ever had. Marsh hardly taught us anything that would be on the exams, my full class was failing her class, and she didn't do anything to help! She was very unprofessional, constantly using swear words in class, and made it very clear to us that she knows she's a mean professor, she should be fired. Don't take her class!

Tough grader
Participation matters
Test heavy
3.0
4.0
BIO221
Grade: B-
Dec 8, 2023
Would take again

She is a good professor, Mircrobio is just a difficult class, a lot of studying, a lot of material to learn. She isn't really clear about what is going to be on the exams so you have to study everything. Lab in the beginning was terrible but towards the end you get the hang of it and it really isn't that bad. Every other week there is a lab quiz

Lecture heavy
1.0
5.0
BIO221
Grade: C+
Dec 10, 2023

Be prepared for the worst semester of your life. This teacher is out to get you and makes the class extremely difficult. No matter how hard I studied nothing could've prepared me for all the details she puts on her exams that are nonsense. When she says "KNOW EVERYTHING" she really means know it ALL.

Lecture heavy
Test heavy
Graded by few things
1.0
5.0
BIO221
Grade: C
Dec 10, 2023

She thrives off of seeing you stress and worry about this class. Isn't helpful when you reach out to her. You have to study and know every single little detail b/c she's a tough grader and extremely picky. She does not care if you will pass her class or not so be prepared for a tough semester. That being said, she is RUDE. Worst professor ever.

Lecture heavy
Test heavy
Graded by few things
1.0
5.0
BIO221
Grade: C-
Dec 10, 2023

I was always nervous to go to her class and have her be by me. Microbio is a difficult course but she made it much more harder than it should have been. On top of that, she was rude at times and she has f a v o r i t e s... especially towards students that look like her. If you're not like her, be prepared to struggle a little more.

Tough grader
Lecture heavy
Test heavy
1.0
5.0
BIO
Grade: F
Dec 14, 2023

first class ive ever failed in my life. extremely tough grader, makes you pay for multiple textbooks/programs only to lecture PowerPoints with the same exact thing, AND there's no point in spending time reading them because test answers come directly from her, so make sure to always pay attention. her short answer questions are ridiculous. dont.

Tough grader
Participation matters
Test heavy
1.0
4.0
BIO221
Grade: B
Dec 16, 2023

Difficult class & she made it harder. Came off as sweet at first but was actually passive aggressive & VERY RUDE. No homework, only weekly lab quizzes, exams, & a presentation. Didn't go over lab beforehand so be prepared before you go in, because she'll snap if you aren't (coming from experience)! LOTS OF STUDYING, only way to pass! GOOD LUCK

Lecture heavy
Test heavy
4.0
5.0
BIO321
Grade: Not sure yet
May 10, 2024

Literally the HARDEST class I've taken my whole life. Marsh gets a rep for being a bad professor, but honestly she's not. She teaches well and can make the topic interesting and fun. The only issue is that the level of preparedness needed for quizzes, exams, and practicals is INSANE. Know every detail of every single topic.

Tough grader
Test heavy
5.0
5.0
BIO221
Grade: A
May 10, 2024
Would take again

Dr. Marsh is a phenomenal professor. She is strict, but her lectures are very interesting and she is funny. Her tests are very detailed, but she will give you all the information you need during lecture. There is no homework, so the class is very test and quiz heavy. She is very accessible outside of class for any questions and is very helpful.

Tough grader
Lecture heavy
Test heavy
5.0
5.0
BIO221
Grade: A-
May 11, 2024
Would take again

Microbiology is simply a hard subject, but Dr.Marsh does her best to help you undertand the material, and she's very accessible during office hours. She has a reputation to be a bad professor but she's not at all, she a really cool professor who's there to prepare you for the real world. Jut be prepared for her exams, practical, and quizzes.

Clear grading criteria
Test heavy
Accessible outside class
5.0
5.0
BIO221
Grade: B+
May 13, 2024
Would take again

Microbiology is difficult, you must be prepared to put hours of studying a week to be ready for the Labs and practicals. Be aware and alert during class as Dr.Marsh teaches from a combination of PowerPoint and the whiteboard. Dr. Marsh is very nice and willing to help you if you show that you are putting effort into the class.

Tough grader
Lecture heavy
Test heavy
5.0
5.0
BIO221
Grade: A-
May 14, 2024
Would take again

Dr. Marsh is nice. The exams are hard and you must put in the work if you want to receive a good grade.

Tough grader
Lecture heavy
Graded by few things
5.0
5.0
BIO221
Grade: A
May 17, 2024
Would take again

Dr. Marshs class was by far the hardest class I've probably ever had to take, but she is not the villain people make her out to be on here. Yes shes particular, and she can be strict, but she's a human that cares very much if you pass but only if it's clear that you are applying yourself. Record the lectures and lock in and she is an enjoyable prof

Tough grader
Hilarious
Lecture heavy
1.0
5.0
BIO321
Grade: Rather not say
May 20, 2024

This is by far the hardest class I have ever taken!!! I was an A/B student but barely passed the class just because of the professor. Dr. Marsh is a very picky and hard grader. You need to know everything for the exam. I would not suggest anyone to take this class with her. If you want to cry the whole semester and experience the failure take it!!

Tough grader
Test heavy
Graded by few things
5.0
2.0
BIO105
Grade: B
Jan 29, 2025
Would take again

This was my J-term course. Overall, Dr. Marsh is a very kind and caring lady. She was understanding and also gave breaks to help break up long lecture days. Her exams were a bit tricky but as long as you study you will earn a decent grade. Manageable homework and assignments. Out of the 4 J-term courses I've taken, this was the best.

Participation matters
Clear grading criteria
Caring
1.0
5.0
BIO221
Grade: C
Jan 30, 2025

Do not take this class with Dr. Marsh. If you're reading this wondering if its really that bad IT IS. I have never studied so hard for a class to barely pass. Your grade is solely dependent on your quizzes, tests and lab reports and she is the toughest grader. All my other nursing prereqs I passed with an A or B+. Run while you still can :)

Tough grader
Test heavy
Graded by few things
4.0
5.0
BIO221
Grade: B+
Feb 18, 2025
Would take again

Dr. Marsh's class is challenging, but she genuinely wants students to succeed. Record lectures, stay focused, and use resources like unstuck study to prepare - it really helps. Tough yet fair grading, but office hours make a big difference.

4.0
5.0
BIO221
Feb 26, 2025
Would take again

Dr. Marsh's class is very difficult, but if you want to succeed you have to put in the effort and the work. She is a very nice, funny, and caring professor, she really wants you to succeed in her class, but you can't slack off. I highly recommend seeing Dr. Marsh during her office hours or over zoom, where she is willing to help you one on one.

Tough grader
Lecture heavy
Test heavy
1.0
5.0
BIO321
Grade: Rather not say
Mar 6, 2025

She is understanding and funny professor, but just she can be strict you need to know EVERYTHING that is going to be on the test, quizzes, and practicle. Just make sure to put in a lot of effort and study as much as you can. In lab you cannot cry, if you make a mistake you have to start over.

Tough grader
Hilarious
Test heavy
1.0
5.0
BIO321
Grade: Drop/Withdrawal
May 1, 2025

I had to drop this course because, it was too fast and stressful. Her expectations aren't clear. No crying in lab, strict on everything. If you arrive late for exam, quiz, or practicle. She will mark it a zero. She is nice but, don't make her angry.

Tough grader
Lecture heavy
Test heavy
5.0
5.0
BIO221
Grade: B+
May 26, 2025
Would take again

Dr. Marsh is more than qualified and is an excellent professor. You need to take PERFECT notes, you cannot slack or write down general ideas from the slides. You NEED to be locked in from the beginning while it's easier. This won't be a stroll in the park. BUT she won't let you drown if you put in time, she didn't need to believe in me but she did.

Caring
Lecture heavy
Test heavy
1.0
5.0
BIO321
Grade: Rather not say
Aug 8, 2025

You need to put in a lot of effort to get the grade you want in this class. Make sure you memorize everything for your lab quizzes, exams, and practicals. You have to be early for lab, if you are late, she won't allow any lab make ups and quizzes. She is nice and funny, but she can be strict.

Tough grader
Lecture heavy
Test heavy
2.0
4.0
BIO221
Grade: Drop/Withdrawal
Nov 30, 2025

She is a very nice woman however, she does not belong in the classroom. Very unfair when it comes to grading, your answer could be right but if doesn't match what's in her head she marks you wrong. has favorites and will purposefully make the class harder. She likes to watch students worry about her class, so go in with your head held HIGH.

Tough grader
Accessible outside class
1.0
5.0
BIO221
Grade: C+
Dec 3, 2025

She is inconsistent with her grading; she does not follow a rubric, which makes it difficult to see where and why points are being deducted. The exams are completely irrelevant to the lecture slides and feel like a game is being played. This course was extremely ineffective and a waste of time.

Tough grader
Participation matters
Lecture heavy
1.0
5.0
BIO
Grade: C+
Dec 4, 2025

Our whole class failed the last exam we took, so she is allowing for a retake. However, our retake is now on the same date as our final exam so we'll have TWO hours to take both the final and our exam four. As much as we appreciate the retake, she should question why everyone failed the exam in the first place.

Tough grader
Participation matters
Lecture heavy
2.0
5.0
BIO221
Grade: C
Dec 5, 2025

The majority of the class, including me, worked so hard just to barely pass (some didn't). It's a problem that so many people struggled to get a 70. It's understandable that material can be hard, but it's her exams and grading where you just can't win. I got a 49% on the last exam and got congratulated. That was a first.

Tough grader
Lecture heavy
5.0
5.0
BIO221
Grade: B-
Dec 5, 2025
Would take again

Honestly she is an amazing professor she is great at what she does you just have to be really discipline the course is very difficult and you definitely have to put more fort than other courses but she's there to help office hours are always available she gives so much opportunity at the end of the semester to pass the course and be successful.

Tough grader
Lecture heavy
Test heavy
1.0
5.0
BIO221
Grade: C
Dec 5, 2025

Worst professor ever. If you have the option to take this class anywhere or with anyone else, do yourself a favor. Who in their right mind assigns two exams on the same day? If this doesn't say enough about her, I don't know what will. I really hope Dr. Marsh is investigated, bc this class has been so unfair and will be a major setback for many.

Tough grader
Lecture heavy
Test heavy
1.0
5.0
BIO221
Grade: D+
Dec 5, 2025

Imagine meeting with her during office hours just to get a 14/100 on the practical... this just tells you how useless they are and how much she doesn't want students to succeed.

4.0
5.0
BIO221
Grade: A
Dec 5, 2025
Would take again

There are a ton of horrible ratings for Dr.Marsh however I see her as an amazing professor who tells you exactly what you need to pass. Those who did not pass/barely passed definitely are not made for this environment and don't have the discipline/dedication to succeed. It's a lot of material but she gives tons of points (745 total).

Tough grader
Amazing lectures
Lecture heavy
3.0
5.0
BIO221
Grade: C
Dec 10, 2025
Would take again

this class is really, really hard. Utilize office hours, study really hard, and set your classes up so that this is your hardest one and the others are relatively easy(manageable). She is a tough grader, so go into detail with your quizzes, exams, and practical responses.

Tough grader
Lecture heavy
Accessible outside class
4.0
5.0
BIO221
Grade: A-
Dec 10, 2025

I was so scared to take this class based off all of these reviews. However, if you study literally EVERYTHING for the exams and practicals, you should be fine. What really matters is effort. I suggest you take this class alongside with easy classes to even out the workload because it can and will get overwhelming. The prof did the job

Tough grader
Lecture heavy
Test heavy
2.0
5.0
BIO221
Grade: Rather not say
Dec 10, 2025

Dr. Marsh is a very kind professor and is willing to help if you ask. The class is extremely challenging, and since there is no textbook, attending lectures and taking detailed notes is essential. Most of the grade is based on exams and quizzes, leaving little room for error. She is nice, but a tough grader.

Tough grader
Test heavy
Accessible outside class
1.0
5.0
FYS100
Grade: C-
Dec 12, 2025

Really? Traumatizing a freshman year college student, who is new to college and just try to ease into the new learning pattern? And seriously, a literal C- with an FYS class? I studied so hard for nothing. Thanks for making Elmhurst starting off on a bad impression for me. I am so thankful I never majored in Chem to have to take Tamara ever again.

4.0
4.0
BIO221
Grade: A-
Dec 12, 2025
Would take again

This class is very hard and if you skip lectures and don't take very detailed notes you will not pass (she allows you to record lectures). She is super helpful when you reach out and she is very kind. Yes, she is strict but that's because you work with human pathogens and wants everyone to be safe. Anyone can pass the class with proper discipline.

Lecture heavy
Test heavy
Accessible outside class
4.0
5.0
BIO221
Grade: A
Dec 12, 2025
Would take again

You will get from this class as much as you put in. Go to lecture, take photos, record audio. Some questions will be based off of what she says aloud. The content is heavy and fast both in lecture and lab. Responds to emails fairly quick. Study early and study little details. If you're struggling--go to office hours, she's not as rude as she seems

Lecture heavy
Test heavy
Accessible outside class
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

77%

Textbook Required

36%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

B-

95% confidence
Based on 55 grades
Most common grades:
C (11)
B (8)
A- (7)
Grade Distribution
A(5)B(11)C(20)D(12)F(1)A-/B+(12)
Based on 68 reported grades
C: 11
B: 8
A-: 7
Drop/Withdrawal: 6
Common Tags
Lecture heavy (34)
Tough grader (34)
Test heavy (31)
Tough Grader (21)
Skip class? You won't pass. (18)
TEST HEAVY (11)
LECTURE HEAVY (8)
Graded by few things (8)
Rating Trend

Declining

-1.19 avg change
Feb
Mar
May
Aug
Nov
Dec
Last 6 months
Ratings by Course

BIO250251

5.0

(1)

BIO414

5.0

(1)

BIO301

5.0

(1)

BIO100

4.7

(3)

BIO250

4.0

(2)
+17 more courses
Difficulty by Course

22101

5.0

22102

5.0

105557

5.0

BIO

5.0

MICRO01

5.0

Similar Professors