Seriously one of the most laid back, sweetest and nice professors. If you’re looking for an easy class that you don’t have to buy textbooks for and can literally just show up and listen then this is the class for you. You do need to show up but other than that, you have 6 prompts and 1 big end of the term paper. That’s it. He does bring guest lecturers. If you have any medical or science interest then this class is the right one for you. If you don’t, then you’ll be bored out of your mind. The professor is super friendly and very easy to talk to. He’s available via email and office hours and really works with you to understand things. Would highly recommend!

Medical humanities with Dr. Ciavolella is an interesting ride. Most of the other students probably don't give a shit about anything at all, but if you care to do the (lengthy, 50-100 pages a week) reading then this class can be incredibly interesting. It only meets once a week so it's best if you stay on top of your game with readings and writing assignments.

The grading rubric was flexible. We decided as a class on 40% final paper, 50% weekly writing assignments (5 total), and 10% participation/attendance. Dr. Ciavolella wants all students to not be so concerned about grades as long as you are learning and coming to class.

Dr. Ciavolella wants to encourage discussion, but he loves to lecture in this 3 hour seminar class. If you want to participate you can but most of the time he's the one talking. He has interesting things to say but it's much more Socratic method lecturing than he claims to want. He's incredibly helpful and wants all students to be engaged and succeed.