GoldApril 06, 2010
Pfirman, Stephanie 
[FYSB BC1566] Exploring the Poles
I have learned more in this class than any other class I've taken at Barnard thus far. Because the readings aren't sparknotes-able, you actually need to do the reading to write the journal entries for every class. However, I am so glad I took this class because I know so much more about the Poles now. Stephanie herself is very sweet, even though she is a pretty tough grader. She's a scientist, but she grades like an English professor. That being said, we went on so many fun outings - several times to the American Museum of Natural History, walked to the Hudson River, went to Dinosaur BBQ together. We also got the chance to present our ideas for the South Pole exhibit that is opening in June 2010 to the exhibition designing board at the American Museum of Natural History.
All in all, a lot of work, but an amazing class that I would highly recommend
A LOT OF READING. Page long journals due the night before every class which are sort of a pain but you get used to it. 3 papers during the semester. Opportunities to write poetry out in the snow.
April 27, 2006
Pfirman, Stephanie
[FYSB BC1566] Exploring the Poles
Please keep in mind that this review is more than 5 years old.
This was one of the best classes i have taken at barnard. The Proffesors are experts in their field, and they are really approachable not to mention smart. As part of the class we got to go cross country skiing,snow shoeing, build and stay in a tent, and go kayaking.If you are looking for an interesting and fun first year seminar this would be the one to take.
Journal entries almost every class, which are simple if you do the readings and get creative. 3 essays. In both cases they appreciate concise writing. One class presentation where you have to lead the class discussion.
August 03, 2004
Pfirman, Stephanie
[FYSB BC1566] Exploring the Poles
Please keep in mind that this review is more than 5 years old.
This was by far the best class I have ever taken. While I didn't really know what I was getting into at first, the class turned out to be so much fun!!!!!!!!!!!! They took us skiing, to a super cool museam, and there were talks of kayaking and dog sledding (although neither of them actually happened). The books we read took you to a different time and place, of something you could never imagin. Plus, they intergrated other materials (videos, newspaper articles, art, etc), which made class more interesting. If you can, take this class. It will be the best, and most memorable of your first year here at Barnard. Oh, and by the way, it was co-taught by Robin Bell.
A nightly journal entry, 2 creative writing pieces (based on the books), and a final essay. Totally managable because all the readings are super interesting, and you always have a ton to say about them, so the journal entries are super easy.
May 18, 2003
Pfirman, Stephanie
[FYSB BC1566] Exploring the Poles
Please keep in mind that this review is more than 5 years old.
What an awesome class! I was skeptical at first but I really got into it. This is an extremely layed back yet informative class. Prof. Pfirman is really nice and has a lot of interesting information and stories to share. We had a second teacher, Prof. Bell. She was a lot of fun as well. If you are dreading taking first year seminar...take this class and you WON'T regret it.
About 2 hours of reading a week, weekly web postings, 3 easy/fun five page papers
February 13, 2003
Pfirman, Stephanie
[FYSB BC1566] Exploring the Poles
Please keep in mind that this review is more than 5 years old.
This class was one of the most interesting, not to mention unusual, classes I've ever taken. Prof. Pfirman is an expert in her field and has held numerous important positions -though you'd never know it, except through light comments when she's explaining something. This may not have anything to do with it, but I was very impressed by the fact that she speaks like 3 or 4 languages. I'd recommend this class to everyone, it's so unique from the other first-year seminars. She shares her experiences in the field (ie the North Pole) and really enlightens her students on a topic not too many people are usually interested in.
Not too heavy, but consistent. 3 papers, plus reading for every class and a journal entry.
Directory Data
| Dept/Subj | Directory Course | Professor | Year | Semester | Time | Section |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FYSB / FYSB | FYSB FYSB BC1566: Exploring the Poles | Stephanie Pfirman | 2012 | Spring | MW / 1:10- 2:25 PM | 1 |
| FYSB / FYSB | FYSB FYSB BC1566: Exploring the Poles | Stephanie Pfirman | 2010 | Spring | TR / 1:10- 2:25 PM | 1 |
| FYSB / FYSB | FYSB FYSB BC1566: Exploring the Poles | Stephanie Pfirman | 2010 | Fall | MW / 2:40- 3:55 PM | 1 |
| FYSB / FYSB | FYSB FYSB BC1566: Exploring the Poles | Stephanie Pfirman | 2006 | Spring | TR / 1:10- 2:25 PM | 1 |
| FYSB / FYSB | FYSB FYSB BC1566: Exploring the Poles | Stephanie Pfirman | 2005 | Spring | MW / 2:40- 3:55 PM | 1 |
| FYSB / FYSB | FYSB FYSB BC1566: Exploring the Poles | Stephanie Pfirman | 2002 | Fall | MW / 2:40- 3:55 PM | 1 |