The Professor
"Human Behavior and the Social Environment, both the first and second sections have easily been the most influential classes I have had the opportunity to take so far in my Social work studies. I have found that the life course perspective that we have been learning is a helpful framework through which to view the world. Further, the way Dr. Ball presented the classes were fantastic. Ensuring that every class session allowed time for discussions that were directed in such a way that I left every class with new ideas to ponder. I think everyone felt that it was a safe space in which to air thoughts without fear of recrimination or judgment. I do think the most impactful single thing we did this semester was the writing of our eulogy. I felt that it really gave me a chance to really consciously define what I want to accomplish in my life.”
“After taking HB 1&2, I am so happy to say that I proved myself wrong. For the longest time, I would doubt myself and my abilities to succeed. I would question my answers to questions often and second guess any comments or suggestions I made. This class broke me out of that shell and I will be forever grateful. I came in as a full onion (i love this example because its so fitting) and had layers peeled off of me each week. Some weeks it hurt (like when assignments were due or tough discussions took place) and in some weeks it felt great to get the hang of what was going on. I never felt lost in the class nor did I ever feel like I was never included. This class has broadened my outlook on life and people and I can't wait to take on the world! By far the best class I have ever taken. Thank you Dr. Ball.”
“From last semester to now, I have grown so much. I remember in my undergrad I could not write past 10 pages, but Professor Ball you challenged me to go outside of my comfort zone and do what I did not think was possible. I am less judgmental and I feel prepared to enter the real world and make a difference. Thank you for your random poem quotes, uncomfortable topics to talk about, and motivation to change the world. This class was always a fun one because of all the interactions. Even when I was not in the mood, this class always lifted my spirits. The last assignment to write my own eulogy really challenged me in ways that were uncomfortable, but always excited because it made me reflect on my life. Even though the assignments were tough, I got through it. I met some great people in this class because of all your group activities. Keep doing what you’re doing!”
“I did not fully understand what I was signing up for when I registered for this class with Dr. Ball. I did not have Dr. Ball the previous semester so I had no idea what this class was going to be like. After the first day of class I had three thoughts, 1. This class is going to be hard 2. I like this Professor 3. Is it too late to get out of this class? I am so glad I didn't truly consider leaving because my experience in this class was phenomenal. The assignments are difficult, they require you to think critically and go deeper than the surface. I learned very quickly that they weren't something you waited to start last minute. I also gained a lot of insight from the assignments that I have been able to apply to my work and personal life. The class is engaging and the way it's structured allowed me to form connections on my own. I appreciate that the class was more than slide shows and overloads of information, I was surely never bored. I'm glad I was able to be in an environment that continued to challenge me but also supportive in many ways. Overall, I loved this class and I learned so much more than I could have imagined.”
I cannot believe that we completed the 15 weeks already. I appreciate everything that I learned in your class. I enjoyed sharing my experiences and listening to everyone own experience from their job. I was able to implement the techniques and skills in my field practice. What I enjoy the most was listening to you, Dr. Ball’s lectures. You made the class interesting and enjoyable to just sit and listen. Overall, I am looking forward for Generalist Practice II next semester. The readings, blackboard posting, articles, assignments and lectures were very informative. Thank you again!
I have been taking Professor Ball’s classes every semester since I started. I am sure many of you can say the same. This is a class that captivates me; we are encouraged, challenged and supported. I feel that the environment is a place that we can freely express ourselves, whether we are contributing to class discussion or telling a story. I have never been able to be as open in any other environment… I am constantly talking about Professor Ball’s class, I am proud of our classroom discussions, and really love how everyone contributes and we all get to know each other as well. I connect with the content, and feel that the way we learn allows us to grow, not only academically but professionally and personally as well. I never expected to have this deep of an experience in grad-school. I am beyond grateful for Professor Ball, I was taken out of my comfort zone at times, with some papers in the past we have written, but I wouldn’t change a thing. I love the reflective papers; I do get a lot out of putting my own thoughts down on paper. There honestly isn’t anything I would change about this class, or any recommendations for next semester. I am excited that this isn’t my last class with Professor Ball. Hopefully we can all convince him to keep teaching at Fordham!! Thank you all for being so supportive in class, I am so grateful to have you all around and to hear all of your life experiences. I think we make a great group and I am so thankful!
Before stepping into Dr. Ball’s class I heard many good things about him. He is a very popular professor and I found this class to be very interesting. The lectures were always interesting and the activities helped explain everything and kept the students engaged. Sitting in a classroom for 2 hours can be difficult but as we continued to do more activities and more group work it gave the class a chance to get to know one another and our different view point towards different situations. Through the assignments and discussions, this course makes you think about your past. You think about where you came from, where you are today, and what you plan to do in the future. As I did like all the activities and group discussions, I really enjoyed Dr. Ball using music, poems and video clips to help teach the class and use different techniques to keep us engaged. I look forward to next semester and the new things we will be introduced to.
