A sample of anonymous student comments on ARTS 199, first-year seminar, "Cliques, Crowds, and Individuals," taught by Kenneth Westhues in Fall 2003, at the University of Waterloo

Strengths were open-ended discussion, lack of structure, informality. Excellent 1st-year course.

Worthwhile. No regrets taking this seminar.

Small class size, enthusiastic instructor, really a valuable experience.

Strength was the chance to improve over time by writing many short essays.

Some readings did not seem relevant to the course, and some were very challenging.

Excellent. I really enjoyed this course.

The closeness of the students to the teacher was great, an easy-going environment.

This course is applicable to real-life happenings, and that's what I love about it.

Great learning experience, good for students making a transition from high school to university.

Prof was very encouraging, that made the class more enjoyable.

Good. I loved the small class size.

Excellent course overall. Level of learning achieved was phenomenal.

Exciting, uplifting course, it helped me with my writing skills. Would suggest all first-year students take it.

Very interesting course that really opened my eyes to the world. I find myself analyzing things I experience with a different eye.