Although I expected more of a historical grounding to this couse, the more cultural and diverse material certainly did not disappoint. From gender to sexuality to the migration of Asians to the United States, Professor Okihiro provided a good base to continue Asian American Studies. Classes are laid-back; one class during the week is lecture style while the next class is spent in dicussion. However, Professor Okihiro does not simply leave his lecture to his own speaking. Instead, he encourages participation to create some sort of mini-discussion during his lectures. This part of the course certainly makes it worthwhile. Given the positive reasons to take the course, there are also drawbacks to it. One down side is that the TA will read your papers. This practice speaks to the professor's general approach toward the course. While he encourages everyone to approach him, and his is easily accessible and very much approachable, his preparation for the course seemss lacking. He can, at times, ramble and appear as if he makes minimal preparations for the course. And, since there are so many guest lecturers and the TA also leads dicussions, you don't get to hear him all that much. Finally, if you really want more complex ideas on ethnic studies related concepts, you won't find it here. Overall, this course is great but only as an introductory level class.