One of the most knowledgeable and enthusiastic professors at UVA. This class was interesting and not super difficult, grades spread between participation, papers, and exams. Could not recommend Professor Preston enough, he is the best.

I have taken plenty of courses across both the politics and history departments here at UVA, and I can confidently say Dr. Preston is the best professor the University has to offer. Preston is in a class of his own — intellectually, as an instructor, and as an individual. His knowledge of American history and current events writ large is nothing short of remarkable, and his enthusiasm easily translates into his lectures. He’s one of the most caring, understanding, and kind individuals I’ve been fortunate to come across in my life, and it’s clear he has a deep commitment to his students. He is a relatively easy grader and provides succinct feedback on papers and assignments — more so than any other professor I’ve had at UVA. Grading for his 2000-level lecture class included four 500-word document-analysis essays evaluating primary sources, an easy midterm and final exam, and participation in discussions. Average grades for the midterm were high. Regardless, I learned a lot in the course, and Professor Preston pushed me to be a better student. I cannot recommend him more than enough.

Genuinely the best course I’ve taken, taught by the best professor at the University.