LEWIS R B
Professor Lewis wasn't horrible but wasn't the best either. He likes to gatekeep his material, doesn't post ANY notes from lecture or any exams taken during the course (only answers). He is very laid back. But I will say that his exams are easier and are very similar to his worksheets. Overall I think he is an okay ochem professor.
Ochem is hard in general, but Lewis does his best. HIs exams for 109C were not bad, but they were filled with questions that tested specific textbook knowledge, so READ THE TEXTBOOK. He's super responsive/helpful in Canvas discussions, so take advantage of that too. 109C wasn't as bad as 109B, but you still need to work a lot to get a decent grade.
ochem is hard, but lewis is goated
Although this class was very hard, Lewis is the best teacher I've had at UCSB. It feels like he actually cares about the success of his students, and people only rank him badly because they don't know the difference between a hard professor and a hard class. Don't expect a curve unless you're taking the class a quarter late!
OCHEM is definitely tough and requires self-discipline and commitment—you'll feel overwhelmed at times. But Dr. Lewis is one of the best professors out there. He teaches with such clarity and calmness that the material feels more approachable. He's also kind, patient, and genuinely encourages questions.
Genuinely everyone I talked to either failed the class, or had no idea what was going on. The curve was insane (I went from a C- to a B+). IDK how this guy can look around, see that MOST of his students are failing, then just change their grades and move on like they will succeed in future classes... Class averages for tests were around 40%. wtf?
Dr. Lewis is a clear, organized lecturer who could probably teach this whole series in his sleep. Tests are difficult but reasonable, and there are lots of resources to help you succeed. My only significant complaint is his seating charts, which take the anonymity out of grades and make most students feel really insecure.
he was so hard and honestly did not prepare you well the only reason people did okay was because of the curve.
This course was the hardest one I've ever taken in my life. So much work outside of class, with minimal return. So many mechanisms to not only know, but implement in all sorts of different other reactions. Lewis did the best he could do teach the material and respond on Canvas discussion boards, but this class is just so absurdly difficult.
Lewis is a good lecturer but this course was made for giving up your major. I will hate ochem for my whole life
Though the content is hard, Lewis does an excellent job of explaining it. You can tell he wants all of his students to be successful! He is extremely easy to reach outside of class, an excellent lecturer, and an overall nice guy. My advice for studying: form lecture groups, do book problems, and attend lectures.
Professor Lewis is known for his clear lectures and fair tests. While Organic Chemistry is challenging, he equips you with the right tools. Utilize the textbook, attend office hours, and try unstuck AI for study prep - success is attainable with effort.