BME 4414

Streets were saying Prof Barker was dealing with some major family struggles this semester, so hopefully this was a unique experience and this course will continue to improve! However this is a classic example of class that the professor does not prioritize and thus the students suffer. We didn’t get a single assignment grade back until Thanksgiving Break (our first assignment was due Sep 8…)

PROS:
- Moderate course load
- Course focuses on grant writing, which is helpful for prospective researchers
- Attendance is tracked but the same sign in link is used each time so you can just save it
- guest lectures allow you to meet/learn from other profs

CONS:
- extremely poor grade turnaround time
- weekly quizzes are unreliable. Many times they will be cancelled or extended, which is difficult for students like me who prefer more structure
- very strict grader. Barker doesn’t like giving out A’s. His feedback to an assignment: “outstanding organization and information. Well done. 91/100”
- you won’t gain technical skills from this class

ADVICE:
- Barker likes detailed experimental protocols. When writing your fellowship application and SBIR application, include a lot of detail and protocol names when possible (ie what type of staining rather than just saying histology)
- this course is best for students with wet lab research experience since you’ll be expected to know a lot about methods
- provide a doctor’s note if you are ever sick

GRADE BREAKDOWN:
10% Attendance
30% “Weekly” quizzes
15% Critical review
15% Fellowship application
20% SBIR application
10% Final SBIR pitch