4.6

Thomas Sy

Psychology - University of California Riverside

4.6
Quality
2.1
Difficulty
94%
Would Retake
144
Reviews
4.6
Quality
2.1
Difficulty
4.5
Helpful
4.6
Clarity

94%

Would Retake

144

Reviews

Rating Distribution
Official

5

111

4

25

3

2

2

3

1

3

What Students Say

Class was extremely easy

PSYCH002 - 5.0 rating

Professor Sy's lectures are amazing

02 - 5.0 rating
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

23%

Textbook Required

44%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

A-

95% confidence
Based on 70 grades
Most common grades:
A (28)
B+ (16)
A+ (8)
Grade Distribution
A(36)B(9)C(2)D(0)F(0)A-/B+(23)
Based on 74 reported grades
A: 28
B+: 16
A+: 8
B: 8
Common Tags
Hilarious (39)
Amazing lectures (20)
Inspirational (16)
Respected (16)
Clear grading criteria (13)
Graded by few things (12)
Amazing lectures (12)
EXTRA CREDIT (9)
Rating Trend

Declining

-0.21 avg change
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
May
Dec
Last 6 months
Ratings by Course

PSYCH149

5.0

(1)

PSYCH02

5.0

(2)

PSY2

5.0

(3)

02

5.0

(1)

PSYC169

5.0

(1)
+6 more courses
Difficulty by Course

PSY2

3.0

02

3.0

PSYC142

2.4

PSYCH142

2.3

PSYC2

2.3

Reviews (144)
5.0
5.0
PSYCH142
Mar 20, 2008

This prof. was very funny, made class interesting. Good prof. but hard test and had to go to class because of pop quizes which I HATED.

1.0
5.0
PSYCH142
Mar 20, 2008

No Comments

5.0
1.0
PSYC142
Mar 29, 2008

Very good professor who actually teaches and entertains at the same time. Tests weren't too bad, but got kind of tricky after the class did well on the first one. Has "pop" quizzes that only make up 10% and genuinely cares about students doing well.

4.0
3.0
PSYC142
Jun 10, 2008

Great guy overall. Very caring and considerate and spends a lot of time with students who need guidance and mentoring (grad school, life, etc.). Awesome sense of humor and also very, very serious and dedicated to his actions.

5.0
1.0
PSYCH149
Feb 20, 2009

Professor Sy is amazing, really funny, very clear and very charismatic.

5.0
1.0
PSYCH02
Feb 25, 2009

Sy seems to only be concerned with making his students laugh. It was hard for me to take the class seriously for a long time because it just seemed like a stand up comic trying to get a laugh out of its audience, but once you listen it is actually relevant to the material and overall made the class easier. If you study you will get an A easily.

5.0
1.0
PSYCH02
Feb 25, 2009

Sy is very concerned with making his students laugh, it seems more than them getting good grades. Pop quizzes in class but gives us a few seconds to ask those around us what the answers are, so easy A. Midterms pretty straight forward, gives study guides, dont have to go to class to get an A.

5.0
2.0
PSYCH2
Mar 9, 2009

AMAZING PROFESSOR. TAKE THIS GUY. He is seriously one of my favorite professors, his lectures were both informative and very entertaining by his jokes and examples. Class wasn't bad at all, the class average on the midterms were B+.

5.0
2.0
PSYCH002
Mar 16, 2009

Best class I've taken yet! He makes lecture interesting and the classroom was always really full! Really good intro to psych class for breadth requirements. Easy A if you pay attention in class.

1.0
1.0
PSYCH002
Mar 19, 2009

Great professor to take if you want to get an A and never learn anything. On his best days his lectures are unprofessional and on his worst days just offensive. He is masogynistic and full of himself. Enjoy his first lecture where he brags about himself and insults you. Or better yet, don't go because he won't drop you anyway and you'll get an A.

5.0
1.0
PSY2
Mar 25, 2009

I LOve Love prof. Sy i highly recommend to take his class his not offensive if you REALLY pay attention to his lectures you will understand him... i could honestly say best prof. i have ever taken at UCR... TAKE this class with him you wont regret it attendance is not mandatory. but TRUST him teaching you would want to go to class every day hottie!

5.0
1.0
PSYCH002
Mar 26, 2009

I love Professor Sy. MY favorite teacher by far. His lectures are FUN and intresting. I highly recommend him, he's an awesome teacher and very helpful. He's not boring like other Professors, he makes lectures intresting and exciting. He is super passionate about what he teaches and it shows.

5.0
1.0
PSYCH142
Mar 27, 2009

Dr. Sy is a wonderful teacher. This class is extremely easy if you go to discussion and lecture and pay attention. Offers a good deal of extra credit. Just do the readings and pay attention in lecture and the class is an A.

5.0
2.0
PSYCH142
Apr 20, 2009

I took this class in fall 08. He's pretty funny, and he tries to make the lectures interesting. His exams are fair, and the material is not that hard.

5.0
2.0
PSYCH002
Apr 30, 2009

Awesome professor! He is the best I've had so far in my years here at UCR!

5.0
2.0
PSYC2
May 20, 2009

Awesome teacher. He is really clear in everything he says & uses real life examples to clarify psychology. Not only is he funny but he's a great teacher. It is an easy class if you read the book, go to class, and do the study guides. His study guides are just terms you need to know and that is essentially what the test is. Def. recommend him.

5.0
3.0
PSYC2
Dec 11, 2009

seriously, one of the best professors ever. you can tell he loves what hes doing and always makes class FUN. i highly recommend him, even if you're not interested in psychology!

4.0
2.0
PSYCH142
Dec 14, 2009

3 hr class but usually uses 2hrs. funny & u learn a lot from following along w/ the slides & listening to him lec. read the book, some question come from the book. go to class, 4 or 5 "pop" quiz. one term paper. fairly basic but you retain everything you learn bc of the jokes and examples he gives.

5.0
1.0
PSYCH142
Jan 8, 2010

funny teacher had him for both psych 2 and now taking for 142 pretty straight forward. makes the class go by fast and don't have to study to hard to get an A. Definetly should take this class.

5.0
1.0
PSYCH2
Mar 13, 2010

Awesome professor! Definitely makes class entertaining. Talks about his involvement in the army a lot. Makes things easy to understand. Tests are just 3 easy multiple choice exams (no final). Lectures are not mandatory but there are occasional pop quizzes (clicker questions). Definitely the best professor I have had so far!

5.0
1.0
PSYCH2
Mar 14, 2010

Definitely the best professor I've ever had. He is very funny and will definitely keep you entertained and interested. His tests are right from lecture material. He puts the PP online and gives you a study guide to go off of that will guarantee at least an A-. If you need to take Psych i highly recommend you take it with this guy. Oh yeah no final.

5.0
2.0
PSYC002
Mar 25, 2010

This prof is awesome! Funny and provides great examples in every lecture! 3 exams, clicker quizzes, disc attendance, and research participation and that's it. Study guides are given when exams are coming up but the terms are broad. I ended up with a B+ for some odd reason but believe I wouldve gotten an A- if I had put in more effort! Easy class!

4.0
1.0
PSYC2
Apr 8, 2010

Sy does not really teach. He just projects slides made from the textbook and reads them. Then he tells stories from his life. He had an interesting life, and he is funny, but I took this class to learn psychology, not about some guy. Not worth it. Ruined psych for me.

5.0
1.0
PSYCH142
Apr 28, 2010

Great professor in class; unprofessional during office hours and outside of lecture. Makes blatant "mistakes" on your grade if he feels you should get a certain grade and is hesitant to review his errors(happened to a dozen others). Easy course; study the TERMS and outline the chapters and slideshows and you're set. Review grade carefully!!

5.0
1.0
PSYCH142
Nov 16, 2010

PROFESSOR SY IS HILARIOUS! The class is easy. Come to lecture though, he explains everything really well. He's very approachable and always open to helping students. I highly recommend him.

5.0
3.0
PSYCH142
Dec 16, 2010

Great class, Prof. Sy is very informative, well-rounded, and gives well-versed presentations. You have to work hard to get an A, but if you are consistent its achievable. Good class, I would highly recommend him !

5.0
1.0
PSYC142
Jan 30, 2011

Adorable and so funny! He is very understanding and willing to give great opportunities to his students. Seriously guys if you ever need someone to talk to about career options about the military, IO psych,business, or psychology this is the guy to talk to! He's inspiring and his TAs are as well .

5.0
2.0
PSYC142
Mar 23, 2011

I think we need more professors like him. His class was interesting for me even though I wasn't a psych major. I had no interest taking this class but he made it fun for everyone.

5.0
2.0
PSYC142
Nov 15, 2011

Love him, his class, the material, take him for the A and much more hell have a lasting effect on you

4.0
1.0
PSYCH2
Nov 17, 2011

this class is honestly a breath of fresh air, he is a really funny guy with a sense of humor, he will crack a joke every lecture. even his TAs are soo nice and unique im not a psych major but the happiness and environment of the TAs teacher, etc is so amazing to me

5.0
3.0
PSYCH002
Dec 1, 2011

Dr. Sy is extremely funny! I couldn't help but crack up in every lecture. He made me want to attend every lecture, and I did not hesitate to miss any of them! He not only incorporates funny stories and hilarious jokes during lectures, but I feel like I learned alot from him as well. He makes psychology more interesting than it already is.

5.0
1.0
PSYCH002
Dec 5, 2011

Dr. Sy is HILARIOUS. Honestly, if you need a Psych class, TAKE THIS ONE! And you can't just take Psych2, it HAS to be with Sy. It just won't be the same. Oh, and if you get Amanda as your TA, she's also hilarious and really chill! =] trust me, you'll <3 this class. I did, I was actually kinda sad when it was over =/

5.0
2.0
PSYCH002
Dec 14, 2011

Best Professor ever!! He makes everyone laugh every lecture and is very clear with the subject.So far his the best Professor ive had @UCR. I highly recommend SY. All you have to do to pass his class is do the readings and go to lectures thats it!

5.0
2.0
PSYCH002
Dec 15, 2011

He is an awesome professor. His lectures are really funny and interesting. As interesting of a class psychology is, he makes it even more interesting and he gets the class(over 500) people to get involved. exam are easy too, just 50 multiple choice questions. Study what's on his study guide and you should pass high.

5.0
1.0
PSYC002
Dec 16, 2011

The class is psyc...its easy! Prof. Sy is hilarious and makes the material simple and fun to remember for the midterms. There is no final only 3 midterms and you have to go to 4 hours of research studies which they will sometimes pay you for. Attendance not mandatory but its always a very pleasant class!!

5.0
4.0
PSYC002
Dec 20, 2011

GREAT PROFESSOR. Main tips - go to lectures, take notes on readings, very straight forward studying. How much time you put into studying will reflect your grade.

5.0
2.0
PSYCH142
Feb 2, 2012

EXCELLENT professor! Love him. Hilarious, definitely keeps you awake in lecture. Easy class. We were supposed to have a term paper, but asked the class if we wanted one or not and decided not to give one. Chill guy :) take him

5.0
1.0
PSYCH002
Mar 9, 2012

HE IS THE BEST PSYCH PROF. YOU WILL EVER HAVE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :D

5.0
2.0
PSYC002
Mar 27, 2012

Professor Sy is by far one of the best professors i have had at UCR. he is quite a character, i was never bored during lecture. He always made it interesting

5.0
3.0
PSYCH2
Mar 29, 2012

Sy, is an amazing teacher. He is funny, smart, interesting .. Basically everyhting you look for in a teacher. I strongly recommend taking his class.

4.0
2.0
PSYCH142
Apr 1, 2012

He is a funny professor. I didn't learn much from his class. Although his class was easy, be careful because the TA will mess up your grade. Don't take the class extremely easy as others have rated it because everything is unpredictable. If you need this class then take it, or else don't waste your time.

5.0
1.0
PSYCH2
Jun 7, 2012

EASY class, don't listen to the fool below me, this crap is EASY. It helps that Thomas Sy is a great professor. You don't need to go to lecture, he posts all the slides online and the exams are based directly off of the slides - but you'll WANT to go to lecture because he is so funloving and amusing! DONT BUY THE BOOK.

5.0
1.0
PSYC002
Nov 16, 2012

This class is a joke. Everyone says they love Dr. Sy so much because his lectures are more like comedy routines. You learn hardly anything useful. The tests are trivial. The book is essentially useless. Take this class if you need an effortless A.

5.0
1.0
PSYCH002
Dec 10, 2012

Great professor. Definitely take this class if you need to. 3 exams, no final. He's also super approachable. Easy A. For sure.

5.0
2.0
PSYCH002
Dec 11, 2012

Professor Sy is awesome! Great guy, and really funny. This class was very easy, and I recommend it to anyone who needs it for a breadth, or even your major. Great experience!

5.0
3.0
PSYC002
Jan 9, 2013

If you read and study consistently, you'll be fine. Had 3 midterms, no final. Easy if you read. Classes aren't exactly helpful to the tests, but they do help you have a better understanding.

3.0
3.0
PSYCH142
Jan 22, 2013

You can only miss a class or discussion section if your arm has been severed from your body that day or if you are dead. So if you're a working student like me that occassionally needs to switch a discussion or attend late, THIS IS NOT THE PROFESSOR TO TAKE. Which is funny for an I/o psych guy not to understand needing to work for a living.

5.0
2.0
PSYC142
Mar 17, 2013

This class is taught by an excellent professor who makes you feel very comfortable during his lectures and office hours. There are three exams that are not difficult if you read a textbooks and professor's slides. I would highly recommend to take this course to everyone who wants to learn and have a joy at the same time.

5.0
2.0
PSYCH142
Apr 2, 2013

AWESOME PROFESSOR! attendance to lecture is a must because his slides arent helpful unless you listen to his explanations of them! It's worth going to lecture though because he jokes around ALL the time and he makes examples that are funny that help you remember the material! Great professor, the material itself is really boring though.

5.0
3.0
PSYCH002
Oct 22, 2013

He's so cool! I think he has the best personality ever. He teaches in a really interesting way so you never get bored. The tests aren't easy but they're not hard either. Just study off of his powerpoints posted online (this is basically what the tests will be on) and you'll be good. :)

5.0
2.0
PSYC002
Nov 26, 2013

Great!

5.0
3.0
PSYCH002
Dec 4, 2013

Dr.Sy is absolutely wonderful! I loved taking his class and look forward to taking psych 142 with him. GREAT!!!!

5.0
2.0
PSYCH142
Dec 12, 2013

Really cool professor. His lectures are not mandatory as long as you actually read the book and look at his slides. I aced two exams and I barely went to his lectures. If you do go to his lectures, they are pretty entertaining though. Do the study guides and read.

5.0
1.0
PSYCH002
Dec 19, 2013

SY is one of the greatest teachers, he is extremely funny and helpful. All of his power point slides come straight from the book. His class is really easy so I highly recommend him.

5.0
2.0
PSYCH142
Mar 28, 2014

Seriously, this guy, THE best.

4.0
2.0
PSYC002
Oct 23, 2014

Professor Sy is hilarious and his lectures are entertaining, but I feel that I am not learning as much as I should be. Majority of the time he is telling jokes and relating funny anecdotes, and sometimes towards the end of class, we have to speed through the slides because we ran out of time. I don't do very well on the quizzes that the TA gives.

4.0
1.0
PSYCH2
Grade: B+
Dec 15, 2014

Professor Sy is one of the most hilarious professors. He tells really funny stories that relate to what we discussed in class. His lectures are pretty much what's covered in the textbook, just like an abridged version. There are pop quizzes in section, but those are pretty easy. Really easy class.

4.0
2.0
PSYC142
Grade: Not sure yet
Dec 21, 2014

I wish Prof. Sy taught more psychology courses. He really made one of my first psych courses enjoyable as a transfer student. He is quick to reply to e-mails and always willing to assist anyone who ask for it. Just going to lectures alone and taking notes I got a "C" , studying and reading the text was an easy "A" on the final. HIGHLY RECOMMEND.

4.0
3.0
PSYC142
Grade: A-
Dec 26, 2014

It's a shame this class was 3hrs long because I got tired quickly and lost interest. However he is a pretty great professor. This is the 2nd time I've had him and if he taught other classes I'd take him again. 3 exams (including final)

5.0
1.0
PSYCH002
Jan 4, 2015

Sy is hands-down one of the best professors I've had. He does not require you to attend lecture, but even then I still went, that is how interesting his lectures are. He is never boring! Always has a joke to keep you smiling. Participate for discussion section because I didn't and that's how I ended up with a B. Exams are easy, just read slides.

5.0
3.0
02
Grade: B+
Feb 18, 2015

Professor Sy's lectures are amazing! He makes everything so interesting.

5.0
1.0
PSYC002
Mar 10, 2015

You didn't even have to go to class because he post slides online. However, going to lecture is definitely fun because he's so hyper and funny

5.0
2.0
PSYC002
Jun 7, 2015

Professor Sy is amazing. He is the one professor that I genuinely find hilarious and worth going to lecture for. He makes lectures really interesting with his humor and awesome personality. The exams aren't the easiest but they're doable.

5.0
1.0
PSYCH002
Grade: A
Nov 1, 2015

Class was extremely easy. I went to lecture twice the entire quarter and got an A. Trust me, all you have to do for the exams are read the slides and memorize definitions/key terms from the book to get an easy A.

5.0
2.0
PSYC169
Grade: A+
Nov 18, 2015

Love, love, love his I/O psych class!!! He was funny and informative, plus you can use everything he teaches in this class in real life. I got super close to a perfect 100% too. If you just come to class, read the book, and memorize the key terms from the notes, then you'll do fine. Definitely would take this professor again.

5.0
1.0
PSYCH002
Grade: A
Dec 5, 2015

I was able to skip some lectures and was able to get either an A or B on the exams.

4.0
1.0
PSYC002
Dec 10, 2015

AWESOME PSYCH PROFESSOR!!! He is really funny! Definitely take his class! :) He makes his lectures fun :D Exams are a fair-game

4.0
1.0
PSYCH002
Grade: A
Dec 17, 2015

sy's psych 2 class is almost ridiculously easy. Most of his exam questions are definitions or word for word thing from his slides. I went to like 3 lectures all quarter but as long as you take notes on his slides (which he posts) and also take notes from the book just to fill in the blanks you will get an A easily. And THERES NO FINAL!

5.0
3.0
PSYC002
Grade: B
Dec 26, 2015

I got Professor Sy for my Psych 002 class. Let me just say he is an amazing guy overall, but in regards to the class he is very clear in lectures and post the lecture slides on ilearn prior to class. His test weren't extremely difficult, as long as you studies his lecture slides as he pulled the majority of the questions from there.

5.0
4.0
PSYC142
Grade: B
Jan 4, 2016

Thomas Sy is an excellent, charismatic professor, but don't expect an easy "A". His exams have a lot of tricky questions, so you need to make sure you study well and have a firm grasp of all the terms and concepts. Attendance isn't mandatory for lecture, but he covers a lot of material so you really should go. Attendance for discussion is mandatory

5.0
2.0
PSYC002
Grade: A
Jan 6, 2016

I'm one of the few - but i found his lectures obnoxious and to be a waste of time. He posts the power points online - so just study off those and his guide and you will do well. The tests are not easy, but the class is an A if you put the effort in. Not a whole lot up for debate. Personally did not find his lectures amusing at all so stopped going.

4.0
2.0
PSYC002
Grade: B+
Feb 5, 2016

Funniest professor ever! The class isn't too hard, and going to lecture is entertaining yet not vital. Posts powerpoint online making it easier to study for tests. Barely read the textbook and still did well in the class. I recommend this class to anyone looking to get GE's out of the way. He only teaches Fall Quarter though so plan accordingly.

5.0
1.0
PSYCH002
Grade: A
Feb 23, 2016

Funny teacher, can tell he cares a lot about the students, nothing in the class is too difficult.

4.0
4.0
PSYC002
Grade: B+
Mar 29, 2016

Really liked the class. Tests are multiple choice and are basically based of the PowerPoint. Easy class and very interesting. If u rEally want an A read the book.

5.0
1.0
PSYC002
Grade: A
May 24, 2016

My favorite professor at UCR. He's super fun and he makes the class fun. He made me want to come to lecture. He changed the textbook to a free version, but I didn't read any of it. Just his slides are enough if you know basic Psych already. Easy A and entertainment all in one great guy.

5.0
3.0
PSYC142
Grade: B
Jun 29, 2016
Would take again

Dr. Sy's I/O Psychology class was one of the first I took, and It's still one of my favorites. I made a few mistakes and didn't study as hard as I should have, and the exam questions are tricky, got a B. Discussions always have quizzes, so they're mandatory. You're doing yourself a disservice if you skip lecture; Sy is an incredible speaker.

5.0
2.0
PSYCH142
Grade: Not sure yet
Dec 1, 2016
Would take again

Really loved this class. Professor Sy is awesome. I took him for both PSYCH 2 and PSYCH 142 and he was possibly the best professor I've had at UCR. He really makes our 3 hour class fly by and his lectures cover the basics of the chapters, reading the chapter helps for the exams. His exams are pretty straightforward and non-cumulative.

Inspirational
Hilarious
Amazing lectures
5.0
2.0
PSYCH142
Grade: A
Dec 14, 2016
Would take again

Prof. Sy is a great speaker and keeps lecture entertaining and easy to follow. There are 5 pop quizzes so attendance to discussion is mandatory but lecture is not. He provides study guides for the 3 non-cumulative exams. Easy A. I recommend reading the book if you choose not to attend lecture. Also gives extra credit. Pretty hot! Go Buckeyes! :)

ACCESSIBLE OUTSIDE CLASS
Hilarious
EXTRA CREDIT
2.0
4.0
PSYCH142
Grade: B
Dec 17, 2016
Wouldn't take again

This class is very definition based but his tests were hella tricky. He offers extra credit but it is a big task that makes you not want to do it. Overall he's a good professor. Very humble, and gives interesting lectures especially since this class was 3 hours long!

Tough Grader
Hilarious
EXTRA CREDIT
5.0
4.0
PSYC142
Mar 29, 2017
Would take again

Hilarious professor with interesting stories that makes a 3 hour lecture go by fast. Some stories are overexaggerated but relates to the topic of psychology. His I/O class focuses mostly on HR and the workplace. Exams are a bit tricky with many confusing questions. His extra credit is a lot of work for what it's worth. Quizzes in discussion.

Get ready to read
BEWARE OF POP QUIZZES
TEST HEAVY
4.0
3.0
PSYC142
Grade: B+
Mar 29, 2017
Would take again

Funny and charismatic. It does feel like he repeats the same info over and over every quarter. There's no up to date publications, stats or articles, so u have to believe what he says. He doesn't give you a break time, so it's tough to seat there for almost 3hrs straight. There's tons of extra credit and he curves. I would take his class again.

Gives good feedback
Participation matters
Hilarious
4.0
2.0
PSYC142
Grade: A
Oct 12, 2017
Would take again

His lectures are long and he doesn't like breaks. But he is the most interesting professor at UCR. He is so funny and makes the material fun to learn! Course is easy as long as you pay attention because he likes to give questions on the exam that shows you were listening to him in lecture. Reading helps but not required. Participation matters!!!

Participation matters
Hilarious
LECTURE HEAVY
5.0
3.0
PSYC142
Dec 5, 2017
Would take again

Funny guy. Makes the lectures more interesting and motivates you to actually go to class.

Hilarious
Amazing lectures
Would take again
5.0
2.0
PSYC002
Grade: A-
Dec 12, 2017
Would take again

Professor Sy makes the class fun and interactive with his jokes. He's very straightforward with the material he provides students. He provides a generous curve when necessary. Overall, a fun and enjoyable class with a humble, hilarious and respectable professor. Highly recommend!

Respected
BEWARE OF POP QUIZZES
Amazing lectures
4.0
2.0
PSYC002
Dec 13, 2017
Would take again

His lectures are long but he makes it funny, interesting, and interactive. He posts lecture slides online and you can pass without attending lecture, but the exams have a few questions that he covers in class and not on the slides. Reading isnt required but recommended. Overall it's fun and interesting class to take. Extra credit may be offered.

Clear grading criteria
Amazing lectures
Would take again
5.0
2.0
PSYC002
Grade: A
Dec 15, 2017
Would take again

An easy class. He's a funny guy and gives really funny lectures. However, you really do not need to go to class. (I personally did because I like his lectures). He posts his slides online so that with the book will get you an easy A.

Get ready to read
Hilarious
Caring
5.0
3.0
PSYC142
Grade: A
Dec 19, 2017
Would take again

He recorded class so it wasn't mandatory, but I went every week. Tests are based off lectures and ask for specific examples used in lecture. The class was 3 hours long, but he kept it entertaining because he is funny. Pop quizzes in section are easy... tests are much harder. Learned a lot. If you enjoy the material and study you will pass easy.

BEWARE OF POP QUIZZES
Hilarious
Tests are tough
5.0
2.0
PSYC002
Grade: A+
Dec 26, 2017
Would take again

Doesn't stress the readings but they always show up on tests. Memorize the study guide he gives you. Pop quizzes and participation points in discussion. Material is pretty simple. Go to lecture because he's more fun than the book and a few of his comments also end up on tests. Free online textbook

BEWARE OF POP QUIZZES
Hilarious
5.0
3.0
PSYC002
Grade: B+
Dec 31, 2017
Would take again

He is great! reread the lecture slides and take notes on the textbook! his test are straightforward if you do the studying! my favorite teacher by far, i would take him again

Respected
Inspirational
Hilarious
5.0
3.0
PSYC002
Jan 4, 2018
Would take again

Best professor ever

Hilarious
Inspirational
EXTRA CREDIT
5.0
3.0
PSY2
Grade: A+
Jan 18, 2018
Would take again

Overall great prof. Knows what he's doing which made me feel confident in all my exams

Respected
Hilarious
Amazing lectures
5.0
2.0
PSYC002
Grade: A
Mar 4, 2018
Would take again

Overall easy class, you have 2 midterms, 1 final and four hours of research participation. Midterms and final are based on the lectures. Lecture notes are posted online but I suggest you go to lecture because Prof. Sy makes them very fun and interesting. Book needed for pop quizzes in the discussion portion, but Prof. Sy gives you the FREE pdf.

Clear grading criteria
Hilarious
Amazing lectures
5.0
2.0
PSYC002
Grade: A
Mar 7, 2018
Would take again

He is honestly a great professor that cares about his students. His lectures are really engaging and hilarious. You honestly want to show up to class. His tests aren't that hard either, he gives a study guide.

Hilarious
Amazing lectures
Caring
4.0
2.0
PSYC002
Grade: A-
Mar 28, 2018
Would take again

Professor Sy is one of those professors who's really easy to follow along during lectures. The class uses a free online textbook and readings are not mandatory but extremely helpful. What makes this class easy is that studying for exams is mostly memory based since the exams are extremely straightforward. His exams are VERY lecture heavy.

Respected
Hilarious
Amazing lectures
5.0
2.0
PSYC142
May 24, 2018
Would take again

Lecture was 3 hour long but he honestly made it seem shorter than that. His lectures were really easy to follow along and very straightforward. Exams aren't hard and he gives you a studyguide for it. Lecture isn't mandatory but exams are lecture heavy so it's good to attend. Overall, he's a passionate and hilarious professor. I would take him again

Hilarious
Amazing lectures
LECTURE HEAVY
5.0
2.0
PSYC002
Grade: A
Nov 5, 2018
Would take again

This professor is really interesting.

Inspirational
Hilarious
Amazing lectures
5.0
2.0
PSYC002
Grade: A
Dec 16, 2018
Would take again

Professor Sy is so enthusiastic when he lectures that it makes the lecture go by fast. Do the study guides and read the chapters (he puts info from lectures and the textbook on exams - more so lecture) and the exams are very straight-forward.

BEWARE OF POP QUIZZES
LECTURE HEAVY
5.0
3.0
PSYC142
Grade: B+
May 15, 2019
Would take again

Best professor Ive taken at UCR. He is hilarious and truly cares about his students. There were 2 midterms and a final. Exams were very easy but make sure you go to lecture. He tests you on what he says in class. I came to love I/O psych because of him and hope to get my masters in it. A truly wonderful professor. If you take him you won't regret.

Inspirational
Hilarious
Amazing lectures
5.0
3.0
PSYC002
Grade: B
Dec 5, 2019
Would take again

Super cool guy. Very engaging lectures, but can feel a bit long. The coursework is pretty do-able, just read up for tests and use his study guides. Would love to have this prof. again.

Accessible outside class
Clear grading criteria
EXTRA CREDIT
4.0
1.0
PSYC002
Grade: A+
Dec 11, 2019
Would take again

He posts the slides to lecture but I went since he kept class super interesting and a lot of things from lectures ended up on the exams. I'd also really recommend doing the reading since it gives way more examples and definitions than lectures. There are only 3 exams and they're all multiple choice. Super easy as long as you stay on top of things

Hilarious
Amazing lectures
5.0
2.0
PSYCH002
Grade: A
Dec 23, 2019
Would take again

Dr. Sy is one of the best professors I've ever had. His enthusiasm makes the class all the more fun to take, but was always respectful when we were learning about sensitive topics. The midterms are very straightforward- study the slides and read the chapters and you'll be completely fine. Also, the final wasn't cumulative.

Accessible outside class
Inspirational
Hilarious
5.0
3.0
PSYC002
Mar 26, 2020
Would take again

Loved his lectures and would definitely take again!

Hilarious
Amazing lectures
Clear grading criteria
5.0
3.0
PSYC142
Grade: A-
Jun 18, 2020
Would take again

Sy has a sense of humor and a passion for what he teaches (and teaching itself) that is infectious and results in a positive learning experience. He's always open to learning from the students as well. In addition to fair exams and lectures that are very well organized and engaging, there is EC. You definitely won't regret taking any of his classes

Respected
Hilarious
Amazing lectures
5.0
2.0
PSYC142
Sep 16, 2020
Would take again

love dr sy. hes a great professor and a seeet man

Respected
Inspirational
Hilarious
5.0
3.0
PSYC002
Grade: A-
Dec 12, 2020
Would take again

Professor Sy is a very funny and interesting man so it is somewhat difficult to not pay attention in his lectures. That being said, his lectures were quit long with a number of tangents. There are only 3 exams and 1 or 2 short papers, along with required research participation. The tests aren't too bad and he gives you study guides.

Graded by few things
Hilarious
Lecture heavy
5.0
2.0
PSYC002
Dec 13, 2020
Would take again

His lectures are all pre recorded but they were fun to listen to. The class is really big so it is better to reach out to a TA if you have questions. Discussions are mandatory and are counted for attendance. He gives study guides for all exams and there are 3 total along with 1 short paper.

Test heavy
Clear grading criteria
Amazing lectures
5.0
2.0
PSYC002
Grade: A
Dec 16, 2020
Would take again

Super funny and a great teacher overall! Took this class during the pandemic so the lectures were prerecorded. Had three tests and one paper at the end. Attendance isnt mandatory for lectures, but mandatory for discussions. Take notes on your own because the lecture doesnt include everything from the textbook.

Get ready to read
Inspirational
Amazing lectures
5.0
3.0
PSYC002
Grade: Not sure yet
Dec 17, 2020
Would take again

AMAZING!! Absolute best. I would definitely take a class with him again, he is super funny and sweet! You can tell that he really loves students students. You can message him anytime and he will always respond positively, even if its a stupid question. Not a hard class, discussions are mandatory attendance, lectures are all recorded. Loved him!!

Gives good feedback
Accessible outside class
Hilarious
5.0
1.0
PSYC002
Grade: B+
Dec 19, 2020
Would take again

Honestly such an amazing professor. It really sucks that his lectures were online because of Covid. I would've enjoyed going to his lectures. Tests were open note and open textbook.

Accessible outside class
Hilarious
Amazing lectures
5.0
1.0
PSYC002
Grade: A
Dec 23, 2020
Would take again

My favorite prof this semester. Most of our lectures were prerecorded because it was online but this would be a really fun class in person. there are 3 tests that are really easy. definitely recommend this class!

Accessible outside class
Graded by few things
Amazing lectures
5.0
3.0
PSYCH002
Nov 4, 2021
Would take again

Best professor out here!

Amazing lectures
Hilarious
Inspirational
5.0
2.0
PSYC002
Dec 1, 2021
Would take again

Technically there is a textbook but its free online and I didnt look at it a single time LOL Professor Sy is hilarious which makes lecture interesting and easy to remember. You are graded on three exams and one project (EASY). Highly recommend!!!

Graded by few things
Clear grading criteria
Hilarious
5.0
2.0
PSYC002
Grade: C
Dec 12, 2021
Would take again

Didn't study once and I passed. All you really need is to pay attention in lectures. Super enthusiastic and can teach you a lot about the psychology field. W professor

5.0
3.0
PSYC142
Grade: B+
Dec 23, 2021
Would take again

This professor was overall great. The grade is based on 3 quizzes, a final paper, final project and participation. The quizzes are multiple choice and timed. READ THE TEXTBOOK and WATCH THE LECTURE RECORDINGS also take good notes. The test are open notes and based on the textbook and the lecture content Sy talks about.

Get ready to read
Graded by few things
Clear grading criteria
4.0
2.0
PSYC002
Grade: B+
Jan 4, 2022
Would take again

Professor Sy is an amazing professor, it just matters I guess on what TA you have because participation during discussion does get graded pretty hard

Respected
Inspirational
Amazing lectures
4.0
3.0
PSYC2
Grade: C+
Mar 30, 2022
Would take again

I could've done much better in this class. Professor Sy is a great professor, but I didn't know was that participation actually matters. The exams weren't easy so you should prepare for them. As long as you don't slack off, keep up with the assignments & surveys, and do well on the exams, it's really not that hard to get a good grade in this class.

Get ready to read
Participation matters
Caring
5.0
1.0
PSYC142
Grade: A
Apr 4, 2022
Would take again

take this professor if u go to ucr

Participation matters
Respected
5.0
5.0
PSYC002
Grade: A+
Apr 15, 2022
Would take again

The pinnacle of breadth classes, easily the most fun I've ever had taking a class. Lectures are lively, Sy is a cool dude. Work load is minimal, and I forget if we even had homework. Pay attention in lecture and do notes on the reading and you'll get an easy A. As a ME major this class is perfect to throw into your schedule.

EXTRA CREDIT
Hilarious
Caring
1.0
4.0
PSYC002
Grade: B-
Oct 25, 2022

This is tough because he's a very personable professor and good for someone who's intimidated by uni. However, since switching back to irl lectures, he's been completely unfocused. He spends the whole lecture doing crowdwork and giving poor psych examples so he can make jokes and talk with students. He curved the 1st exam +8% for tons of low scores

Hilarious
Respected
Test heavy
5.0
2.0
PSYC002
Grade: A
Nov 13, 2022
Would take again

Super nice guy!! Lectures are always engaging as Professor Sy is able to make enough jokes to keep the audience's attention, but still gets through all the necessary information to prepare you for exams. Textbook isn't really necessary, just go to the discussions and lectures. Pay attention during his slides and you will hardly need to study.

Amazing lectures
Hilarious
Respected
5.0
1.0
PSYC002
Grade: B+
Dec 20, 2022
Would take again

Grade really depends on the three tests (final included). He teaches based on the free text book provided. Attendance is not mandatory just study the textbook. He has a great personality and his lectures are super fun to watch but he covers content slowly and not in-depth so even with going to lectures you need to review the textbook.

Test heavy
Graded by few things
4.0
2.0
PSYC002
Grade: B
Jan 4, 2023
Would take again

Overall good professor, I would have done better if I did all the surveys assigned. The tests are pretty simple if you go to lecture, WHICH I HIGHLY SUGGEST BEC THE LECTURE SLIDES ARE TO GENERAL. The only thing that was not a fun of was the mindtap he made us do which he gave little to no instruction on

Hilarious
Respected
2.0
3.0
PSYC002
Grade: B
Jan 4, 2023

He's a good professor but his lecture and slides are not very helpful. You don't need to go to class, just read the textbook and you'll do fine. Beware, his tests are tb heavy, and his participation in discussions is graded too harshly even after they were canceled because of the strike.

Get ready to read
Participation matters
Graded by few things
5.0
3.0
PSYC002
Grade: A-
Feb 27, 2023
Would take again

Lectures are not required but highly recommended, he is very good at explaining things but his slides are hard to understand without any explanation. He doesn't record his lectures or post his slides. He brings his dog everywhere which is cute, but tended to be a bit distracting. Very funny, likes using group participation(call and response).

Amazing lectures
Clear grading criteria
Graded by few things
4.0
2.0
PSYC142
Grade: B+
Mar 14, 2023
Would take again

Prof Sy is really good at making entertaining lectures but the course topic isn't for everyone. Topic was kind of boring but the focus on leadership development makes it a worthwhile choice regardless of your intent to enter I/O Psychology careers.

Amazing lectures
Inspirational
Graded by few things
5.0
2.0
PSYC002
Grade: B+
Mar 26, 2023
Would take again

His lectures are entertaining & informative. He always told personal stories that always related to the lecture, making it easier to understand the concepts and easy to remember. I barely read the textbook. Not everything is listed on the slides, so it's important to take note of what he actually says during lecture. I never got homework. Love him

Amazing lectures
Respected
Graded by few things
5.0
2.0
PSYC002
Grade: A+
May 2, 2023
Would take again

Dude made the class super chill. It was amazing. I was a cs major so this was a breadth course for me and my god it felt like a breath of relief. He also genuinely cares about his students if you go to ask questions to him. He's also good at cracking jokes. Aced all three of my exams and easily got an A+. Most stress free class ever.

Hilarious
Caring
Respected
4.0
2.0
PSYC002
Grade: Not sure yet
Nov 21, 2023
Would take again

Good psych professor

5.0
1.0
PSYC002
Grade: A
Feb 26, 2024
Would take again

You cannot help but like Dr. Sy. He taught the first college lecture I ever attended and it was a riot. You'll probably never fall asleep during his lectures cause he gives a lot of memorable examples. Sy's slides are also very thorough, so if you don't want to go to lecture you don't have to but I'd say go anyway cause he is great.

Amazing lectures
Hilarious
Respected
5.0
5.0
PSY2
Grade: A+
Jul 9, 2024
Would take again

He's an amazing teacher!

Inspirational
Caring
Respected
5.0
1.0
PSYC142
Grade: A
Nov 5, 2024
Would take again

Goated prof. Had him my freshman year for PYSC002 and now I have him my senior year for PYSC142. Lectures/exams were always online, attendance to lectures is optional but discussion is mandatory. Exams are multiple-choice and very easy. Personal development project is as easy as you want it to be. Easy A if u do bare minimum, entertaining prof

Inspirational
Caring
Online Savvy
4.0
2.0
PSYC002
Grade: B+
Nov 28, 2024
Would take again

Dr. Sy brings a lot of energy and personality to his lectures. While you don't necessarily need to attend, it's worth going as he provides great examples. Using unstuck ai alongside the textbook can be really helpful for acing the exams.

5.0
2.0
PSYC002
Grade: A
Dec 12, 2024
Would take again

Prof Sy makes lectures fun, lighthearted, and easy to understand. Lecture attendance is not mandatory, but you must attend and participate in discussions. Textbook is provided for free. You don't need to read it, but I recommended it. Your grade relies most on your exam performance, but he gave a +10% curve. Study and you'll do fine in this class.

EXTRA CREDIT
Amazing lectures
Graded by few things
5.0
1.0
PSYC002
Grade: A
Dec 12, 2024
Would take again

Professor Sy, I believe is one of the best professors any student could have on campus. He's very interactive and sociolable, making it easy for students to approach him. His charisma paired with his knowledge of psychology and modern humor pairs well with each and every student who walks through his lecture doors. P.S. cinnamon (his dog) is cute

Amazing lectures
Inspirational
Hilarious
5.0
1.0
PSYC002
Grade: A+
Dec 13, 2024
Would take again

SUCH AN AMAZING PROFESSOR. He was the main reason for switching my major to psych. Made everything easy to understand and remember. He had three straightforward exams; there were no trick questions at all. All his lectures were so fun. just study the slides and read the textbook; you should be fine.

EXTRA CREDIT
Amazing lectures
Clear grading criteria
5.0
2.0
PSYC002
Grade: A-
Dec 26, 2024
Would take again

Funny dude overall. He is really clear with what is needed to be done. Quizzes are easy just need to study the textbook and read the lecture notes (read the practice questions in the textbook). I learned quite a lot since he's really engaged with the class in lectures.

EXTRA CREDIT
Amazing lectures
Clear grading criteria
5.0
2.0
PSYC002
Grade: B+
Jan 5, 2025
Would take again

GREAT professor!! He gets off topic a lot but he always ties it back to psychology. The lectures aren't mandatory but if you attend lectures he will give you examples that are word or word on the exams, they also have videos that aren't available on slides.The class is overall really easy as long as you actually study

EXTRA CREDIT
Amazing lectures
Hilarious
2.0
1.0
PSYCH002
Grade: A
Jan 16, 2025

The tests will often have questions he didn't cover in class from the (free) textbook . Tests are easy tho, so its fine. His lectures are majority crowd work which is good for some but I found annoying. His tangents can be insensitive, sometimes racist. Part of grade is participating in his research w/ his app "mind tap" which is a breeze.

Test heavy
5.0
2.0
PSYC002
Grade: A
Feb 24, 2025
Would take again

His class was simple to understand, and the tests were pretty easy! Review the slides well; that should get you the A you need.

Amazing lectures
Clear grading criteria
Hilarious
5.0
1.0
PSYC002
Grade: A
Mar 5, 2025
Would take again

He is genuinely one of my favorite professors of all time. He goes in detail about every topic he teaches, and gives sufficient examples during lectures that help you understand it better. He also incorporates lots of humor and engages with his students. The exams and papers were easy. He also brings his doggo to class, super cute!!

Clear grading criteria
Inspirational
Hilarious
3.0
2.0
PSYC142
Grade: A
May 31, 2025
Would take again

Lots of terms to memorize

Clear grading criteria
Lecture heavy
Graded by few things
5.0
1.0
PSYC002
Grade: B
Dec 14, 2025
Would take again

THE GOAT !!!!! HE CURVES SO GOOD THANK U KING🙏🏻

Amazing lectures
Inspirational
Respected
5.0
2.0
PSYC002
Grade: A
Dec 17, 2025
Would take again

I went to two lectures. One at the start of the quarter and one right before the final. He gives us study guides of what is on the test, but there are some questions about stuff he only covered in lecture or discussion.

Participation matters
Hilarious
Lecture heavy
4.0
1.0
PSYC002
Grade: B+
Dec 23, 2025
Would take again

easy class but make sure to prepare for tests. since he doesnt have a ton of assignments, it's harder to do well in the class if you don't do well on tests. for the tests, make sure to skim the textbook sections since he puts info from the textbook (that we never covered in class) on the test

Graded by few things
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

23%

Textbook Required

44%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

A-

95% confidence
Based on 70 grades
Most common grades:
A (28)
B+ (16)
A+ (8)
Grade Distribution
A(36)B(9)C(2)D(0)F(0)A-/B+(23)
Based on 74 reported grades
A: 28
B+: 16
A+: 8
B: 8
Common Tags
Hilarious (39)
Amazing lectures (20)
Inspirational (16)
Respected (16)
Clear grading criteria (13)
Graded by few things (12)
Amazing lectures (12)
EXTRA CREDIT (9)
Rating Trend

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Ratings by Course

PSYCH149

5.0

(1)

PSYCH02

5.0

(2)

PSY2

5.0

(3)

02

5.0

(1)

PSYC169

5.0

(1)
+6 more courses
Difficulty by Course

PSY2

3.0

02

3.0

PSYC142

2.4

PSYCH142

2.3

PSYC2

2.3

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