Very personal and emotional setting. Engaging with the class regards of how large it is, went around with a mic handing it to students who were interested in sharing. Easy to engage with after or during class. There is a lot of reading (I believe at least two books and some articles). Lectures are sometimes just movies.

Prof. Armbruster was very nice and VERY passionate about what he teaches. However, the TA you get determines everything. I got a terrible, over the top TA who dropped my grade from an A to a C+ just from the final alone. Never got my final back, so I have no idea why she gave me such a low grade. Easy class, as long as you get an easy going TA.

Taking Professor Ralph's fall 2023 class was transformative. He's passionate, brought in authors, and deeply cares about students. The final paper, focusing on a significant life moment, was tough but doable. Highly recommend his class for an enriching experience. If you don't appreciate emotion and passion then don't take it.

Incredible class! He's very passionate. I went to a few of his office hours, and you can tell he loves what he does. I didn't think the class was boring at all, but we did have alot of readings. We had 2 guest speakers present after reading and/or watching their work, and we had time to speak to them after class. Truly the best class I've taken!!

so boring. L class with so many readings. midterm is 50 terms that he picks 10 of, you answer six as well as a 3 page essay: 4 prompts that he picks 2 of, you answer 1. incredibly boring material, incredibly boring lecture, an additional family interview paper to the midterm and final - too much work for a class that is needed for ge credit

DON'T take Chicano studies with him unless you yourself are very passionate about Chicano studies. It could just be his TA Fabian though. The goal shouldn't be memorizing every historical detail and all its connections. Essays are graded way too in depth when a basic understanding of Chicano history should be accepted.

I had professor Armbruster during the summer and he was the most inspirational professor I have had thus far! His class made me feel empowered and very connected and intrigued on a different level when he taught and deciphered each of the movies, articles, and photos we pulled apart throughout the course. I would definitely take it again!

most passionate teacher in all of ucsb! He's there for you in everything and is very very helpful!

He's very inspirational and into the subject, really gets you moving. However, if you don't thoroughly memorize all the terms and specifics of the materialreadings assigned, you'll get a horrible grade.

A difficult class to do well in, as 25% of the grade is a 16 page essay on your family's struggle. Didn't struggle? Don't expect to do well then. However, the class is very inspiring and Armbruster is very passionate about the topic... To the point where he cries almost every lecture.... Take if you will. Lots of reading and movies.

Very passionate professor and deeply cares about every one of his students, however, it is very hard to get an A in this class. He expects all students to open up and share their very personal experiences with everyone. If you're not willing to, prepare yourself to get an C or below. Many readings were assigned.. Take a different professor.

Wow! So dedicated to his students, answers every email or question. Super passionate and really cares about the subject. 3 papers and group discussions. The class is not hard if you can balance writing both academically and with your heart. It's not easy to reveal so much of yourself, but it's kind of necessary with this class. Love the guy!