Western Kentucky University / M / Gordon (Mac) McKerral

P-Mac was one of the best professors I've ever had. The material isn't necessarily easy but you learn so much applicable information it's crazy. Even if you don't plan on being a journalist you should definitely take this course, writing is a skill that everyone should learn. P-Mac may come across as stern occasionally, but he loves to joke around. He'll also help you out with anything you need. You do assignments almost every day and you'll write news stories frequently, but I found it to be quite amusing. Do not be late. I highly recommend this course.

Mac is a great teacher and really knows what he's talking about, plus he makes class interesting with his stories and remarks. Before each test he has a review day with a practice question. The tests are essay format in which you have to relate the topic (prior restraint, libel, privacy etc.) to a hypothetical case and based on case law decide what the ruling would be in the hypothetical case. Each test has an outline and as long as you follow it and have been in each class to hear the case examples, you should be fine. He emails you the notes, but it always helped me more to be in class to hear him explain the cases. There is also a 6-8page research paper due in the class that you must get at least a C on to pass the class. He gives you plenty of time to do it and its generally not that hard, but don't wait until the last minute!

If you like writing features, you will like this class. There are NO TESTS, just stories due about every two weeks. He grades them and gives you a chance at revisions for a final grade. He will help with ideas or style problems.

Mac is a great professor, and he really knows what he's talking about. He e-mails the notes to you so you can print them out to study before the test. Attendance is mandatory, and his policy is strict, but he's funny and informative...so go to class and listen. Tests are all essay, but he goes over the info. beforehand and is always willing to answer a million questions. You have to read the book and pay attention or you will have no clue when it comes to press law.

McKerral is not a good professor! His class is difficult for no reason. He doesn't explain his lectures well, he's mean so you're too scared to ask for help, and he rambles. DO NOT TAKE MCKERRAL!!!! Just stick with Highland.

I found this course to be quite difficult. I did enjoy it though, while I was in it. I actually dropped it because I didn't need the hours, and this wouldn't help me with my major, and I didn't want a C on my record. But, if you're interested in this, then he is a good teacher to have.