Gilbert H. Herdt

This is a required class for first year graduate students. Don't let promises of class discussion fool you, unless Gil actually takes the time to read this review and takes it seriously. He tends to ramble on ad nauseum, frequently sucking the life out of high interest level material. We study sex after all. Initially the reading list may seem formidable, but because the readings are never discussed, they are also, not really required. So if you find yourself overwhelmed by the workload you encounter in other classes you can consider the reading for 800 optional. Gil has a tendency to get flustered and angry when challenged. Because he's the director of the program most people refrain from direct confrontation, expecially in the classroom. So what you've got is 3 hours of excruciating boredom coupled with an atmosphere of artificial adoration. Do not select Gil as one of your advisors. Do not work for him. Horror stories about dealing with Gil Herdt are not hard to come by in the HMSX department.