[{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:57:02.487550+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTQwNTM0NDE4","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2634041","instructor_name":"Alex Waldron","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2025-01-13 01:50:08 +0000 UTC","comment":"Clear, direct lecture style. Lectures moved quickly, but 521 has a lot of material. Responded well to questions, though in a somewhat discompassionate manner. Fair grading, homework load, and exams.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2634041","quality_rating":4.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:56:59.030896+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTMzNTkyMzY5","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2094033","instructor_name":"Alexander Hanhart","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2020-08-17 15:05:59 +0000 UTC","comment":"Professor Hanhart is a solid math professor. One of the best Ive had at Madison. Hes smart and very friendly. I recommend going to his office hours, I always felt like I learned something afterwards. If youre having trouble with LaTeX you should look into editors like Mathcha.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2094033","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:56:59.030896+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTMzNTY3NDc4","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2094033","instructor_name":"Alexander Hanhart","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2020-08-07 14:39:35 +0000 UTC","comment":"Overall a good professor. My biggest gripe with the class was typing out every HW assignment in LaTeX, it was just tedious and time consuming. Also he has not great handwriting, but other than those things he is very nice and a good lecturer, he knows his stuff. Very helpful in office hours, one of his biggest strengths. Final was definitely fair.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2094033","quality_rating":4.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:56:59.030896+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTMyOTM3MTE0","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2094033","instructor_name":"Alexander Hanhart","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2020-02-27 15:06:41 +0000 UTC","comment":"He is very knowledgeable but only would write the skeleton of proofs in class leaving you to fill in all the blanks. He didn't explain hard topics well and his homework and exam problems are extremely difficult. He was very unhelpful in office hours and would help much with understanding how to do the homework.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2094033","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":5.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:56:59.030896+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTMyMTUwNjU2","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2094033","instructor_name":"Alexander Hanhart","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2019-08-06 03:11:06 +0000 UTC","comment":"I took 521 with Prof Hanhart. one of the most fun, understanding and easy going Professors I've come across at UW. Keeps the class interactive, makes sure ppl are grasping the concepts. However, the grader Yunbai Cao is totally irrational and whimsical, gives grades by looking at names, putting a blot on everything that's good with this class.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2094033","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:56:59.030896+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTMwNDk0Mzgy","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2094033","instructor_name":"Alexander Hanhart","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2018-09-11 13:58:50 +0000 UTC","comment":"This professor is mostly not accessible outside of class, and not very caring. It seems like he put minimum effort into teaching this class, and he does not really care whether his students get a fair grade that reflects their effort. Additionally, he is not very good at lecturing this topic neither.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2094033","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:56:59.030896+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTMwNDIyNjEy","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2094033","instructor_name":"Alexander Hanhart","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2018-08-10 19:01:49 +0000 UTC","comment":"Prof Hanhart is a great lecturer! I liked this class much more than I thought I would and it really inspired me to take more math. Exams and homework were tough but not unexpectedly so.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2094033","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:56:57.594978+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTE3NDMwNzI4","source_instructor_id":"rmp:890956","instructor_name":"Alexander Kiselev","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2010-07-19 02:55:03 +0000 UTC","comment":"Well-written notes and great teaching. I promise you won't sleep in his class.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/890956","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:56:57.594978+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTE3Mzc5ODMx","source_instructor_id":"rmp:890956","instructor_name":"Alexander Kiselev","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2010-06-30 09:56:55 +0000 UTC","comment":"Amazing professor.  He presents tons of proofs and always makes sure that everyone understands every step.  He moves very quickly through material so you need to pay attention in class.  The textbook, Real Analysis by Frank Morgan, is short and really clear.  Take Kiselev's class if you get the chance!","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/890956","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:55:35.597114+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTE0Nzc2NDAy","source_instructor_id":"rmp:394755","instructor_name":"Andreas Seeger","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2008-08-26 15:29:25 +0000 UTC","comment":"seeger is very thorough and clear. he really took the time to help because he could see that I really wanted to understand. he expects you to know definitions and proof methods-- but that's the whole point of abstract mathematics!","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/394755","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:55:35.597114+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTE0MjQzNTYw","source_instructor_id":"rmp:394755","instructor_name":"Andreas Seeger","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2008-04-04 14:06:15 +0000 UTC","comment":"Seeger is an incredible professor. He knows the topic hands-down and is extremely helpful in office hours. In response to the poor ratings for 221: welcome to collegiate mathematics. You will have to think about problems, not just plug in numbers and solve. Understanding the theory is crucial, and math will only get harder if you don't master it.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/394755","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:54:08.685189+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTEwMDYxMzc4","source_instructor_id":"rmp:202881","instructor_name":"Arun Ram","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2005-07-26 12:56:10 +0000 UTC","comment":"Very clear and organized in explanations. Makes complex concepts easy to understand. HW is impossible to finish. Perfect class for the overachiever.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/202881","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":5.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:51:14.087454+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTI3NjM3NTAx","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1946378","instructor_name":"Brian Cook","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2016-12-28 19:46:05 +0000 UTC","comment":"Brian is there with you every step of the way. Cares about math, but cares more about people. Challenging material made accessible through his articulate and broad lecturing style.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1946378","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:50:32.914658+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTI3NzAyMjYx","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1786920","instructor_name":"Betsy (Lindsay) Stovall","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2017-01-09 17:57:14 +0000 UTC","comment":"521 is rough, and she doesn't take it easy on you, but she makes sure you learn your stuff. If you put in the effort and are willing to ask questions you will be an analysis superstar. The lectures are very fast paced, re-reading your notes and working through slowly will yield the best results.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1786920","quality_rating":4.0,"difficulty_rating":5.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:50:32.914658+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTI3NjUyMzAy","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1786920","instructor_name":"Betsy (Lindsay) Stovall","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2017-01-01 16:33:26 +0000 UTC","comment":"Hard grader--yes. Tough class--yes. Worth it--absolutely! She is very clear in her expectations (she is passionate about rigor), and if you come to class and office hours, it is manageable. I would recommend her!","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1786920","quality_rating":4.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:50:32.914658+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTI3NjQ0OTg5","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1786920","instructor_name":"Betsy (Lindsay) Stovall","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2016-12-30 08:46:43 +0000 UTC","comment":"Professor Stovall is terrific. She explains difficult concepts well and even throws in a little humor. Grading is tough, but that is to be expected in such a difficult course. The curve is generous.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1786920","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:50:32.914658+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTI3MjkwMDA0","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1786920","instructor_name":"Betsy (Lindsay) Stovall","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2016-11-30 17:54:28 +0000 UTC","comment":"Dense lectures with very little explanations as to why methods/operations were chosen. There is almost zero interaction with students during lecture. You will spend the entire period copying writing on the board that has not been explained well, and then be expected to have it memorized verbatim. Tough grader. Teaching is not one of her strengths.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1786920","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:50:32.914658+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTI3MTMzNDE1","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1786920","instructor_name":"Betsy (Lindsay) Stovall","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2016-11-05 00:55:38 +0000 UTC","comment":"not sure if her name is lindsay or betsy but she's amazing anyways","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1786920","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:50:32.914658+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTIzMzI2MzA1","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1786920","instructor_name":"Betsy (Lindsay) Stovall","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2014-05-29 14:23:04 +0000 UTC","comment":"She's class. One of the best in the Math Department","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1786920","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:50:32.914658+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTIzMjcxOTQx","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1786920","instructor_name":"Betsy (Lindsay) Stovall","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2014-05-18 01:54:49 +0000 UTC","comment":"Betsy is a terrific professor and manages to simplify real analysis to the point where it is not even difficult. She has a really really really generous curve for grading, and she is really organized in her lectures. The exams are pretty easy and you only need 66% for an A on those.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1786920","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":1.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:50:32.914658+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTIyNTY2MDAx","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1786920","instructor_name":"Betsy (Lindsay) Stovall","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2013-12-15 22:59:15 +0000 UTC","comment":"This class is the hardest undergrad math class you'll take at UW. It's a beast. But Besty is a great teacher. She's really kind and clear in her instruction. Wish I could take another class with her! She's your best bet for sure!!","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1786920","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":5.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:50:32.914658+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTIyNDk4Nzgw","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1786920","instructor_name":"Betsy (Lindsay) Stovall","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2013-12-10 21:23:11 +0000 UTC","comment":"I really like Betsy. If you have to take real analysis, she's your best best. Very pleasant and knowledgable.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1786920","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":5.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:50:32.914658+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTIyNDYwNjQy","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1786920","instructor_name":"Betsy (Lindsay) Stovall","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2013-12-07 04:02:38 +0000 UTC","comment":"Really helpful during office hours. Make sure you attend them. Homeworks are hard and tests are based on lecture notes. If you take her notes and put in the time( ALOT of it) you should be fine.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1786920","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:50:32.914658+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTIxNzcxNDIy","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1786920","instructor_name":"Betsy (Lindsay) Stovall","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2013-05-15 23:50:04 +0000 UTC","comment":"What I found lacking was the ability to step out of the realm of mathematics and give examples/explanations that a beginner could understand. While proving theorems, the big picture would get lost when treating the proof just as a set of Mathematical statements without picturing what exactly it is that we are trying to prove. The pacing also lacked","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1786920","quality_rating":4.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:50:32.914658+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTIxNjE5Nzky","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1786920","instructor_name":"Betsy (Lindsay) Stovall","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2013-04-27 22:26:22 +0000 UTC","comment":"Take this professor.  I went on the waiting list, and I'm glad I did.  This is a HARD class if not explained properly, and she does a great job.  If you have to go on the waiting list to get her for 521, DO IT.  The homework and tests are fair. Now she's a fairly tough grader, but that's a small price to pay.  Great teacher.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1786920","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:48:45.018638+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTQzNDExNDQz","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2868294","instructor_name":"Chris Rycroft","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2026-09-07 15:22:34 +0000 UTC","comment":"Dropped this class because it was so disorganized.  Please don't tell me this has become the standard at UW.  It was SO hard to sit through ","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2868294","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:48:45.018638+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTQzMzA0NjQy","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2868294","instructor_name":"Chris Rycroft","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2026-07-15 03:47:08 +0000 UTC","comment":"Professor is not accessible.  Did not learn anything from this class.  ","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2868294","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:48:45.018638+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTQyODE2MjI4","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2868294","instructor_name":"Chris Rycroft","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2026-04-11 07:06:21 +0000 UTC","comment":"Would not take this professor again, he was not able to explain concepts to students clearly. ","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2868294","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:48:45.018638+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTQyNjc4MjU5","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2868294","instructor_name":"Chris Rycroft","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2026-03-08 22:30:33 +0000 UTC","comment":"Would not take again.  Agree with others, stay away from his class at all cost.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2868294","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:48:45.018638+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTQxOTc3NTE3","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2868294","instructor_name":"Chris Rycroft","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2025-12-01 16:45:47 +0000 UTC","comment":"Class was okay, but Professor Rycroft stumbles a lot in class and does not present the material in a clear way.  Wish I had taken from another professor instead.  Lots and lots of homework and tests are hard","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2868294","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:48:45.018638+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTQxNTYxMDcw","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2868294","instructor_name":"Chris Rycroft","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2025-08-09 17:39:01 +0000 UTC","comment":"Highly recommend mainly bc we rarely used Rudin. Lectures closely followed Kenneth Ross' book, which is very accessible. Caring prof and responded well to Piazza questions. Homework was very hard, with 2 weeks for ~12 problems. Exams had very strict time limits, but class was curved heavily (A:76, D:40). Practice exams closely matched exams. 8/10","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2868294","quality_rating":4.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:48:45.018638+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTQxMjAxNjg0","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2868294","instructor_name":"Chris Rycroft","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2025-05-07 22:48:18 +0000 UTC","comment":"Incredibly dense class, but he makes it work. His lectures are good, he uses a lot of graphs to help you understand different theorems and such. His homework problems are long and difficult, but they're (usually) fair, and they do a great job at solidifying your understanding of different topics and theorems. One of my favorite lecturers at UW.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2868294","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:48:45.018638+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM3NDkxMDgx","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2868294","instructor_name":"Chris Rycroft","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2023-03-09 03:07:59 +0000 UTC","comment":"Chris Rycroft gives concise lectures that are easy to follow, but the problem sets and exams are difficult. Rycroft is a godsend on Piazza and in office hours. Rycroft makes the analysis fun. More professors should be like Rycroft. Moral of the story: Rycroft.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2868294","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:48:45.018638+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM3MjAwMTI2","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2868294","instructor_name":"Chris Rycroft","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2022-12-20 07:18:53 +0000 UTC","comment":"Rycroft is the GOAT. He may not be a pure mathematician but he knows his stuff. A lot of our homework used results proved in class so the proofs on the homework weren't hard. My only complaint is that the final was worth 45% of our grade meaning you could do good all semester but get sick the last day and get a B in the class because of that. ","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2868294","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:48:07.046231+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTI2OTkyMTIw","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2147418","instructor_name":"Chung Tzou","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2016-09-24 18:23:07 +0000 UTC","comment":"MATH521 changed my life forever, you'll never see numbers the same way again. Chung Nan offers plenty of interaction in class as well as detailed feedback on the homeworks as well as the tests. Probably the most useful class I've taken at UW and that's saying something.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2147418","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:45:23.940286+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM2MjQ4MzMy","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2662529","instructor_name":"David Portales","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2022-05-05 03:30:03 +0000 UTC","comment":"Professor Portales is very enthusiastic and caring to his students. However, the homework is very challenging, and the exams are extremely hard, the average is usually below 50. I found that about 80 students enrolled in MATH 521 at the beginning of the semester, but about 30 of them dropped the course before the drop deadline.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2662529","quality_rating":2.0,"difficulty_rating":5.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:45:23.940286+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM1Njk4NTQz","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2662529","instructor_name":"David Portales","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2022-01-04 19:50:28 +0000 UTC","comment":"Professor Beltran is fantastic! There is not much else to say. It is difficult to find a mathematics professor that lectures well and has good hand-writing. Real Analysis is the bane of every mathematics major's existence, but Professor Beltran makes it very easy to understand with challenging homework assignments and amazing intuition.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2662529","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:45:23.940286+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM0NzUxNDUw","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2662529","instructor_name":"David Portales","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2021-05-10 11:09:19 +0000 UTC","comment":"Best professor I ever take in math class! His lecture is brief and sometimes feels rush, but it's a solid point as you will need to work through similar stuff in hw. Homework is tough but interesting. His exam is also tough but the curve is nice. Sometimes he uses unused homework in the exam, so do ALL homework even if he asks for few questions.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2662529","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:43:21.784234+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTExNjcyODcx","source_instructor_id":"rmp:152258","instructor_name":"Donald Passman","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2006-05-28 22:52:25 +0000 UTC","comment":"Passman communicates the ideas very well and teaches right along with the text. 90% of your grade was the take-home final and take-home midterm.  More comments on returned proofs would've been nice, but you can always go to his office hours. Glad I took this class from him instead of the white-haird angel of mathematical death, Anatole Beck.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/152258","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":2.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:39:13.258768+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTE2MjcxMjgx","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1277603","instructor_name":"Florian Bertrand","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2009-10-25 19:42:25 +0000 UTC","comment":"Amazing teacher. Hard class but he explained things really well. Took a lot of time to help students and is very accessible. You will get a good grade if you do all the homework and go to class everyday.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1277603","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:39:13.258768+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTE1ODQ0OTM3","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1277603","instructor_name":"Florian Bertrand","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2009-05-15 13:33:42 +0000 UTC","comment":"Fantastic professor. Explains difficult concepts very clearly. Generously gives his time to help his students, and does so patiently. Even willing to help outside his office hours. Gives out exercises that are very helpful for exam preparation. Exams are not difficult as long as you do his exercises and spend time understanding the concepts.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1277603","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":2.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:38:03.703240+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTIxMTY3NTky","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1498874","instructor_name":"Gregorio Moreno-Flores","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2012-12-26 00:46:05 +0000 UTC","comment":"Aloof, dry sense of humor, and overall a good professor to take for upper level classes. Writes his own problems that you must be creative on! 521 is overall a tough class but you'll make it if you know the definitions by heart.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1498874","quality_rating":4.0,"difficulty_rating":2.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:36:22.397160+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTQwNDQyMTQz","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2230918","instructor_name":"Hung Tran","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2024-12-26 23:45:13 +0000 UTC","comment":"Very good professor. Clear with the expectation of the class from the start and is generally very organized. Lectures are clear and well prepared, has more of an emphasis on applied mathematics because of his specialties. Exam are just the right difficulty: hard enough to challenge you, but also definitely doable with enough experience. ","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2230918","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:36:22.397160+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTQwMzYzOTEx","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2230918","instructor_name":"Hung Tran","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2024-12-18 16:37:54 +0000 UTC","comment":"Tran was an amazing professor for Math 521. He clearly knows his material and tries to present it in a way that makes sense and flows for students. He has an interesting grading system, where HW, Midterm 1, and Midterm 2 were each worth 20% and the final was worth 40%. He gave a big curve though, generous grading and hard if not impossible to fail ","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2230918","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:36:22.397160+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTQwMjE2MDAy","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2230918","instructor_name":"Hung Tran","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2024-12-18 15:07:47 +0000 UTC","comment":" He grades everything fairly. He also wants us to achieve success by summarizing common mistakes and providing past paper. Although exams are very hard and scores in every exam are low, the course is curved. You can do well, at least a B, if you spend your time.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2230918","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":5.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:36:22.397160+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTMzMjMzMzEy","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2230918","instructor_name":"Hung Tran","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2020-05-07 19:57:19 +0000 UTC","comment":"Fabulous professor. His lectures were easy to follow even when the proofs and content were hazy. He taught with so much passion for mathematics which made it very easy to attend his class. Very helpful in office hours, very respectful and patient with questions. You would not want to miss an opportunity to take a class with Professor Tran.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2230918","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:36:22.397160+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTMzMjI5MDg0","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2230918","instructor_name":"Hung Tran","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2020-05-07 13:57:54 +0000 UTC","comment":"Hung Train puts way more effort into teaching than 95% of profs. He runs a very clear class where everything is very fair. He knows how to teach. Analysis will be hard if you haven't done much like it before so you want to take it with Hung Tran.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2230918","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:36:22.397160+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTMzMTY0MTYx","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2230918","instructor_name":"Hung Tran","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2020-04-30 05:41:39 +0000 UTC","comment":"A great guy with lots of energy & passion for teaching math. It was refreshing to have such a good math professor for once. Weekly HWs, not too hard; exams are about equal in difficulty, 70% averages. Teaches clearly & explains concepts intuitively. Approachable & friendly in office hours. Handled the online transition well. Take him if you can.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2230918","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:36:22.397160+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTI5NzA2MDY2","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2230918","instructor_name":"Hung Tran","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2018-03-27 22:00:09 +0000 UTC","comment":"Amazing professor. Has a slight accent but you get used to it after a couple of lectures. Really takes the time to make sure students understand the material. Gives weekly assignments typically due on Fridays. Each assignment took anywhere between 1 and 3 hours.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2230918","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:36:22.397160+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTI5MzIyNzY4","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2230918","instructor_name":"Hung Tran","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2017-12-23 05:13:45 +0000 UTC","comment":"Great professor for an upper-level course. Wants students to succeed in Analysis and go further. Lectures were clear. No posted HW solutions, but understandable since exams often contain assigned problems and you can find solutions online. Exams werent easy (always were parts that required a clever solution), but a fairly graded class for sure.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2230918","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:36:22.397160+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTI5MjM4OTQ1","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2230918","instructor_name":"Hung Tran","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2017-12-16 20:30:41 +0000 UTC","comment":"Professor Tran explains mathematical ideas clearly in class and makes math enjoyable. Homework problems are assigned weekly; midterms and final are totally doable. Overall, he is a very good professor.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2230918","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:36:22.397160+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTI4OTUzMTI3","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2230918","instructor_name":"Hung Tran","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2017-11-22 16:51:15 +0000 UTC","comment":"Hung Tran is probably THE kindest professor in Math Dept. He never just throw a definition out of nothing, and he is really good at connecting intuition and abstract logics by examples, graphs and homework problems. His Math 521 class is well designed, and he can nearly answer all the questions that we pop up. His curve is decent too.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2230918","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:33:52.986615+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTE4NjkwMjUy","source_instructor_id":"rmp:274596","instructor_name":"Jean Pierre Rosay","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2011-06-02 01:14:07 +0000 UTC","comment":"Rosay is a great guy. One of the greatest mathematicians in analysis of his time. Wish he was still teaching","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/274596","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":5.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:33:30.126526+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTI2NDcxNDA1","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1867235","instructor_name":"Jennifer Beichman","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2016-05-04 22:30:08 +0000 UTC","comment":"Jen was awesome for 521. Though the class was challenging, she worked hard to make it enjoyable.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1867235","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:33:30.126526+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTI1OTU3NzI1","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1867235","instructor_name":"Jennifer Beichman","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2016-01-18 15:42:24 +0000 UTC","comment":"Jen is by far the best math professor I've ever had at UW Madison. She's very easy to understand and makes sure that the class is following along during lectures. Office hours with her are the only reason I understood this material, as she is super helpful one on one. I was blown away by how dedicated Jen is to teaching!","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1867235","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:33:30.126526+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTI1Nzc0NjUw","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1867235","instructor_name":"Jennifer Beichman","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2015-12-19 17:25:10 +0000 UTC","comment":"Jen brings a lot of energy to lectures, and explains things very well. She's always helpful when it comes to any type of question, and she really wants you to do well. Her feedback is fantastic, and going to office hours are worth it. If you have the opportunity to take a class with her, do it -- you will get a lot from it.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1867235","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:33:30.126526+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTI1NzY4MzEz","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1867235","instructor_name":"Jennifer Beichman","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2015-12-18 23:41:45 +0000 UTC","comment":"I truly enjoyed jens class. Very energetic and personable especially in small lecture setting. Gets to know each student. Presents the material in a very clear fashion. Would take again without hesitation.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1867235","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:32:11.337394+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTE5NzYxNTUw","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1684887","instructor_name":"Jiri Lebl","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2012-01-23 15:25:21 +0000 UTC","comment":"This professor rocks! He makes math seem easy because he has so many ways of explaining a new concept. He was also very helpful in office hours. He uses his own book, so you get plenty of practice problems of the kind that will appear on the exam.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1684887","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:30:34.696141+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM5NjQ5ODU1","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1012704","instructor_name":"Jordan Ellenberg","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2024-07-29 23:13:16 +0000 UTC","comment":"The best professor ever! He's supportive and humorous. You can feel that he really cares about his students and hopes everyone can enjoy the lecture. His assignments are creative and worth digging deep into.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1012704","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:30:34.696141+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM4MjM0Mzk5","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1012704","instructor_name":"Jordan Ellenberg","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2023-09-25 21:38:17 +0000 UTC","comment":"Ellenberg was the best professor I've had in the math department at UW. He cares so much about his students, writes doable exams, and gives interesting lectures. Homeworks were challenging but really reviewed the lecture content well and prepared me for the exams. ","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1012704","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:30:34.696141+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM4MDAxODI2","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1012704","instructor_name":"Jordan Ellenberg","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2023-05-29 14:32:34 +0000 UTC","comment":"Jordan Ellenberg is an inspiring, fantastic professor. Homeworks were long and challenging, lectures prepared us really well for the exams. Ellenberg is super approachable and really cares that his students learn the material. Ellenberg is the best professor I've had at UW-Madison. ","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1012704","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:30:34.696141+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM3MjM5NTUw","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1012704","instructor_name":"Jordan Ellenberg","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2022-12-24 19:42:34 +0000 UTC","comment":"Dr. Ellenberg is funny, but well respected. Approachable and cares a lot about his students. Overall taught a great Analysis course.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1012704","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:30:34.696141+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM3MjE0NjE2","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1012704","instructor_name":"Jordan Ellenberg","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2022-12-21 16:49:14 +0000 UTC","comment":"Jordan is incredible.  Homeworks were long but doable.  Exams were not bad at all.  Lectures were very interesting and I appreciated how enthusiastic he was about the material.  Would definitely recommend taking any class with Jordan. ","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1012704","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:30:34.696141+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM3MTYyODY2","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1012704","instructor_name":"Jordan Ellenberg","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2022-12-17 00:06:41 +0000 UTC","comment":"Homework sets can be long but fair. Exams are made on the easier side because he uses it to test fluency and not depth. He really wants you to enjoy the content and stay hungry. Great lecturer, entertaining, and inspirational. A true GOAT at Madison","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1012704","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:30:34.696141+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM1MTA4ODg2","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1012704","instructor_name":"Jordan Ellenberg","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2021-10-07 05:38:57 +0000 UTC","comment":"Prof. Jordan is the best tutor I have ever seen. Before took his course, I am still wondering that can i do research about mathematics. But he is offering you a brilliant idea about what a mathematician should think and how we could do to connect the mathematical theory to the real world question. Even though the hw is very hard, but very useful.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1012704","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":5.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:30:34.696141+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM0Njc5MzIy","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1012704","instructor_name":"Jordan Ellenberg","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2021-05-02 05:54:01 +0000 UTC","comment":"Jordan was a great professor all around. Made the concepts we learned accessible and intuitive, and was able to keep the class very engaging even despite being online. He is also just a great and very kind person, and cares for the wellbeing and learning of his students. I would definitely recommend him.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1012704","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:23:54.846088+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM3OTI0Njg3","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1408142","instructor_name":"Laurentiu Maxim","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2023-05-15 06:15:06 +0000 UTC","comment":"A kind of derogatory, condescending professor that probably need not be teaching students. He thinks he knows everything, and belittles students in class; playing uncomfortable jokes on them. I personally felt bad for some students who seemed to not understand the subject quite well, and he makes fun of them when asking questions in class .","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1408142","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":5.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:23:54.846088+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM3ODYyMjMw","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1408142","instructor_name":"Laurentiu Maxim","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2023-05-08 21:34:01 +0000 UTC","comment":"Many definitions in the lecture, make sure to review all materials more than once. Also, pay attention to EVERY exercise he went through before the exam, which has high probability to show up in the exam. Also an extra credit problem in the final akin to one of the past challenging HW questions. Also available outside of classes. Overall, not bad. ","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1408142","quality_rating":4.0,"difficulty_rating":5.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:19:34.539506+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTMyODYzMzQ4","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2423562","instructor_name":"Matthew Schrecker","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2020-01-23 23:10:43 +0000 UTC","comment":"There can't be a better professor for Mathematics or Analysis.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2423562","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:19:34.539506+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTMyNTY3Nzc3","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2423562","instructor_name":"Matthew Schrecker","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2019-12-08 21:37:24 +0000 UTC","comment":"This is a tough class, so he has to go fast in class to cover all the material, but he fully explains the concept behind each proof, and will take pauses for questions. He's patient/understanding & v helpful in office hrs. He also typed up notes for the ENTIRE semester to help us study, and has a soothing British accent. Def my fave math prof at UW","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2423562","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:19:34.539506+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTMxMTA0MjAy","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2423562","instructor_name":"Matthew Schrecker","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2018-12-19 20:58:03 +0000 UTC","comment":"Prof. Schrecker is probably the most competent math professor I have had at UW. His lectures are fast-paced but he clearly explains concepts and will stop to answer questions. He is also extremely accessible in office hours and always happy to explain concepts you may not have understood in lecture. Very tough class but great teacher.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2423562","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":5.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:19:34.539506+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTMxMDI0NDA0","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2423562","instructor_name":"Matthew Schrecker","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2018-12-14 08:27:36 +0000 UTC","comment":"He made everything super clear and did explain the ideas behind the proofs. He is also extremely nice to students. Although he has a fast speed in order to cover all the materials, you cannot expect a better math teacher. Feel very lucky to take analysis course with him.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2423562","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:19:34.539506+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTMwODY4NDE4","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2423562","instructor_name":"Matthew Schrecker","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2018-12-04 22:47:04 +0000 UTC","comment":"Prof. Schrecker writes really really fast. In class I just copied what he writes and have no time to think about what the note means, so after class I actually learned nothing. I think he is trying to cover all the materials instead of letting students understand. Homework is hard too. I spent hours doing it. But he is patient for questions.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2423562","quality_rating":3.0,"difficulty_rating":5.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:19:34.539506+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTMwNzA3NzEz","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2423562","instructor_name":"Matthew Schrecker","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2018-11-12 18:29:50 +0000 UTC","comment":"Professor Schrecker's lecture is boring. He writes note soooo fast that you can not catch up with him. After lecture, you probably learn nothing but your hand is sour. Homework due every week but it only has 5-6 questions. It is not that hard but you need to spend hours on it.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2423562","quality_rating":3.0,"difficulty_rating":5.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:17:03.573912+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM0NTg4NzQ4","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2407195","instructor_name":"Mihaela Ifrim","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2021-04-21 07:35:01 +0000 UTC","comment":"Horrible","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2407195","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":5.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:17:03.573912+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM0MTgzNTMx","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2407195","instructor_name":"Mihaela Ifrim","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2020-12-23 06:28:11 +0000 UTC","comment":"The tests are hard but don't worry she is generous! Do participate in class, office hours, and Piazza. It really pays off!! My advice is to form study groups as soon as possible because she can be hard to get ahold of at times but she does her best to make up for it. Be patient with her-it is worth it and Mihaela always comes through.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2407195","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:17:02.153037+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTI4MjkzMTI0","source_instructor_id":"rmp:620540","instructor_name":"Mikhail Feldman","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2017-05-12 01:31:51 +0000 UTC","comment":"His English isn't very good and he has a very thick Russian accent, so lectures are hard to follow. If you ask him a question, he might not understand what you're saying and give you an answer to something else. The homework was challenging, but he's a pretty fair grader, and the tests were a proper difficulty.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/620540","quality_rating":2.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:17:02.153037+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTIwNTczMjEw","source_instructor_id":"rmp:620540","instructor_name":"Mikhail Feldman","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2012-08-14 12:21:39 +0000 UTC","comment":"Not a very good professor. Smart guy, but was not a very good teacher at all. Just copied out of textbook to blackboard, and didn't explain that well. Never taking with him again.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/620540","quality_rating":3.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:17:02.153037+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTE4MDE0MTQz","source_instructor_id":"rmp:620540","instructor_name":"Mikhail Feldman","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2010-12-21 13:36:50 +0000 UTC","comment":"His lecture notes are literally photocopies of the textbook.  Lectures not engaging at all.  However, his exams are EXTREMELY fair, and, even though he says that there is no curve, he will most likely curve after all grades are collected.  Just hang in there, and you should be fine.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/620540","quality_rating":2.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:12:37.537792+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTE5NjIyMjA1","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1674129","instructor_name":"Patrick Lavictoire","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2011-12-26 10:43:26 +0000 UTC","comment":"Patrick is obviously brilliant, however he lacks the ability to effectively communicate ideas and concepts to the class. He has what is known as the "expert blindspot", where he is so brilliant that he forgets his students aren't on the same level as he is. While writing proofs he mostly just writes without explanation, and refers you to the book.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1674129","quality_rating":3.0,"difficulty_rating":5.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:12:37.537792+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTE5NjAxNTk2","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1674129","instructor_name":"Patrick Lavictoire","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2011-12-22 05:39:25 +0000 UTC","comment":"Somehow, I didn't like his teaching. Although, he was meticulous, there was something missing in his teaching. Specifically, he didn't give us the bigger picture and we were mostly lost in the details. HWs were tough but I think I learnt a lot from it. Hez quite capable of teaching well.. But,as of now average teaching!!","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1674129","quality_rating":4.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:06:34.601176+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTQyNjMwNzQz","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1029779","instructor_name":"Sean Paul","course_label":"Math521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2026-02-20 22:27:50 +0000 UTC","comment":"In fact it is a very good course. It provides video recordings of each class. As long as you study diligently you can learn a lot and it's not difficult to get good grades. Highly recommend Professor Paul.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1029779","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:06:34.601176+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM5Njc1Mjgz","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1029779","instructor_name":"Sean Paul","course_label":"Math521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2024-08-11 00:03:06 +0000 UTC","comment":"Sean is a good professor in many ways. He is good at answering questions in office hours and his lectures are typically disorganized but informative. However, he is severely lacking in empathy. He routinely treated me and others with disrespect. He is cold and aloof in his interactions with students to the point of dogma.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1029779","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:06:30.122461+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTIyMTI0NDYx","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1786461","instructor_name":"Sean Rostami","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2013-09-16 18:19:21 +0000 UTC","comment":"Very helpful! He is modest and patient when student have questions. Very intellengent in math!","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1786461","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":2.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:06:30.122461+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTIyMDc1NzUy","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1786461","instructor_name":"Sean Rostami","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2013-08-22 13:10:29 +0000 UTC","comment":"Very nice guy, extremely helpful. He is able to clearly get across the tough ideas. He made the analysis course very enjoyable.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1786461","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":2.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:06:30.122461+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTIyMDY0ODQ0","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1786461","instructor_name":"Sean Rostami","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2013-08-19 00:32:04 +0000 UTC","comment":"even though the material is very tough, professor Sean is very willing to help.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1786461","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:06:22.769845+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTQxNTYwMTAy","source_instructor_id":"rmp:607852","instructor_name":"Serguei Denissov","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2025-08-09 03:19:15 +0000 UTC","comment":"Generous grader. No slides—just blackboard—so going to class is important. He covers exam-related material. Exams aren't hard, but questions need a flash of insight. The only downsides are messy handwriting and little time for question after class, since he leaves right away. Overall, clear explanations, reasonable workload, and a very nice person.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/607852","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:06:22.769845+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM0MzQxNjEw","source_instructor_id":"rmp:607852","instructor_name":"Serguei Denissov","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2021-02-04 15:35:01 +0000 UTC","comment":"worst math class I ever take in UWMadison. Homework problem are partially graded since "not enough grader". And the exam was not related to the material covered in class","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/607852","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":5.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:06:22.769845+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTI1MzUwNDU1","source_instructor_id":"rmp:607852","instructor_name":"Serguei Denissov","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2015-11-05 13:07:41 +0000 UTC","comment":"Analysis is always going to be super difficult, but Denissov didn't make it easier. He never posted solutions to the hw problems, only to the quiz and midterm. His office hours were the day the hw was due and before he assigned the next homework. He's not there to teach. Grading was weird--you get half credit for a solid attempt. HW was hard.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/607852","quality_rating":2.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:05:36.336933+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTMzNjA2OTc4","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2606861","instructor_name":"Siddhesh Wagh","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2020-08-23 20:09:25 +0000 UTC","comment":"He is a good guy but not good at explaining class material. Exams and grading are fair. It's not difficult to get an A if you take all the problem sets seriously and understand his class notes well.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2606861","quality_rating":2.0,"difficulty_rating":2.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:05:34.119603+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTI4ODcxNzA1","source_instructor_id":"rmp:262518","instructor_name":"Sigurd Angenent","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2017-11-10 15:12:22 +0000 UTC","comment":"Best math professor I've had. Wish I had taken another course with him before I graduated. He's really really clear, really nice, and his exams are extremely fair and easy.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/262518","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":2.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:05:34.119603+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTI4ODA0MTc1","source_instructor_id":"rmp:262518","instructor_name":"Sigurd Angenent","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2017-10-30 18:00:05 +0000 UTC","comment":"Just six words: BEST PROFESSOR. TAKE 521 WITH HIM.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/262518","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:05:34.119603+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTI4MzAwNjY0","source_instructor_id":"rmp:262518","instructor_name":"Sigurd Angenent","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2017-05-13 00:18:23 +0000 UTC","comment":"Overall, would recommend.  Homework is reasonable, but tests can be hard. Lectures are sometimes a bit dry, but they are always clear. Some thought that the textbook (Rudin), was dense, but I thought it was alright. No office hours, answered questions on piazza instead. Overall, a good professor","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/262518","quality_rating":4.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:05:34.119603+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTI4Mjc2MDI1","source_instructor_id":"rmp:262518","instructor_name":"Sigurd Angenent","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2017-05-10 16:48:49 +0000 UTC","comment":"Take 521 with him. He is the best  math professor ever!!!!","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/262518","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:05:34.119603+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTI4MDkxNTEz","source_instructor_id":"rmp:262518","instructor_name":"Sigurd Angenent","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2017-04-20 17:21:12 +0000 UTC","comment":"Real analysis isn't a very easy subject by any means, and mathematical proofs in general can be hard to follow, but Professor Angenent knows how to make this stuff make sense. I've never felt lost in his class.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/262518","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:05:34.119603+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTI4MDE1ODg2","source_instructor_id":"rmp:262518","instructor_name":"Sigurd Angenent","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2017-04-08 01:26:23 +0000 UTC","comment":"Sigurd is amazing. His lectures are very clear and inspiring. He comes up with proofs with diagrams and motivates students to think with his hints. Exams and grading are very fair. That being said, you will definitely learn more and get less pain from him than others. If you have a chance to take a course with him, register without hesitation!","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/262518","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":2.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:05:34.119603+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTI3OTc5OTU3","source_instructor_id":"rmp:262518","instructor_name":"Sigurd Angenent","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2017-04-01 21:27:24 +0000 UTC","comment":"The best professor I have ever had! He cares about intuitions and examples that can helps a lot for understanding (and also useful for future proof by contradictions!). He is a really nice guy, and his lectures are amazingly organized. We are using one of the worst textbook (super hard and dry), but his class is the most interesting and intuitive","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/262518","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:05:34.119603+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTI3OTc3MzQx","source_instructor_id":"rmp:262518","instructor_name":"Sigurd Angenent","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2017-03-31 19:53:51 +0000 UTC","comment":"Amazing lecture. He is one of the best lecturer in maths department to explain things.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/262518","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":1.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:05:34.119603+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTI2Nzc2ODc1","source_instructor_id":"rmp:262518","instructor_name":"Sigurd Angenent","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2016-07-02 20:41:40 +0000 UTC","comment":"Incredible. If have the good fortune to be able to take a class with this guy you should. Very clear explainations and really emphasizes what is important. Tests and homework are at just at the right level to be challenging but doable. Also, he is just an extremely nice guy.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/262518","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:05:30.349155+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTQzMjQxODIw","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1972415","instructor_name":"Simon  Marshall","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2026-06-11 15:06:28 +0000 UTC","comment":"Omg this guy","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1972415","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":5.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:05:30.349155+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTQzMDA1MDgz","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1972415","instructor_name":"Simon  Marshall","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2026-05-02 19:34:55 +0000 UTC","comment":"Do not take","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1972415","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":5.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:05:30.349155+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTQxNzA0MzU5","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1972415","instructor_name":"Simon  Marshall","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2025-10-10 01:42:32 +0000 UTC","comment":"Hard to understand, annoyingly strict grader, no partial credit.\nDoesn't explain assumptions made from correlations or lemmas in his proofs during lecture, won't elaborate when asked on them\ndude sucks","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1972415","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":5.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:05:30.349155+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTQxMTcyNzYw","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1972415","instructor_name":"Simon  Marshall","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2025-05-06 03:36:32 +0000 UTC","comment":"He is a good lecturer but I feel he expects students to understand a lot of implied or underlying concepts, theorems, etc (even from previous classes!) and won't care to explain them in lecture. If you are a good mathematician (and good with proofs) then he will be good for you, but for those that require an extra push I do not recommend","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1972415","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":5.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:05:30.349155+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTQxMDI2NjMz","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1972415","instructor_name":"Simon  Marshall","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2025-04-24 04:43:58 +0000 UTC","comment":"honestly, while simon marshall may come off as rude, i can tel he means well and cares for his students. His style of teaching personally didn't work with me, but I ended up doing well in the class anyway","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1972415","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":5.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:05:30.349155+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTQxMDI2MjYz","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1972415","instructor_name":"Simon  Marshall","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2025-04-24 04:08:02 +0000 UTC","comment":"Same complaints as all other reviews.\nIn addition he was very unhelpful during office hours, would only tell students what part of their answer was wrong and then move onto the next student. He also grades very strictly: his midterms are graded with partial credit however he will take points off for something wrong. ","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1972415","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":5.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:05:30.349155+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTQwNzM0MDg5","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1972415","instructor_name":"Simon  Marshall","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2025-03-04 21:34:12 +0000 UTC","comment":"I didn't mind his lectures but he was very strict on grading and gave no partial credit","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1972415","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":5.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:05:30.349155+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTQwNzE3MzA2","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1972415","instructor_name":"Simon  Marshall","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2025-02-27 21:00:16 +0000 UTC","comment":"Play it safe and pick a different professor ","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1972415","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":5.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:05:30.349155+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTQwNjgxMTM1","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1972415","instructor_name":"Simon  Marshall","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2025-02-18 02:45:36 +0000 UTC","comment":"To say he is a strict grader is an understatement. He is unnecessarily strict, and I found that he took points off homework on things that were closer to technicalities than inaccuracies/mistakes. ","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1972415","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":5.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:05:30.349155+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTQwNTA5MTEy","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1972415","instructor_name":"Simon  Marshall","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2025-01-08 18:14:23 +0000 UTC","comment":"He did say after our first hw he wasn't afraid to fail half the class, and by the end about half the class dropped the class. The lesson learned is don't underestimate this class. I got an A in Math 341, so I thought I'd be fine jumping to this class - I would highly recommend NOT doing that. It is an interesting class though, as it's very formal. ","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1972415","quality_rating":3.0,"difficulty_rating":5.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:05:30.349155+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTQwMjkwOTc2","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1972415","instructor_name":"Simon  Marshall","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2024-12-14 04:47:29 +0000 UTC","comment":"hard course made harder by this professor. Would not recommend to anyone","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1972415","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:05:30.349155+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM5OTU1NzQ5","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1972415","instructor_name":"Simon  Marshall","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2024-11-15 06:18:59 +0000 UTC","comment":"Great lecturer. Clear, provides examples, answers questions  \nBut:\n-claimed there was partial credit on midterm, but next lecture he said he made first 2 pages no partial credit\n-strict grader: half points off on questions for one inaccuracy despite the rest of the proof being correct\n\"I am not afraid to fail half the class\"\n\nWould not recommend ","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1972415","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":5.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:05:30.349155+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM5OTM1NTEz","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1972415","instructor_name":"Simon  Marshall","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2024-11-13 00:55:59 +0000 UTC","comment":"Prof. Marshall is one of my favorite math professors. Math 521 isn't an easy course yet he does a great job of helping students conceptualize very abstract math concepts. He's a tough grader on homework and tests but feedback was given and overall helped build my mathematical confidence. Finally, he is very helpful and willing to answer questions.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1972415","quality_rating":4.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:05:30.349155+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM5ODY5NzIx","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1972415","instructor_name":"Simon  Marshall","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2024-10-30 00:32:22 +0000 UTC","comment":"He has a fun accent, is accessible outside of class, is a clear lecturer, and is a hard grader. He doesn't give away answers but will provide hints. The tests are very fair. He goes pretty slow in lectures, so there is time to absorb the material. ","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1972415","quality_rating":4.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:05:30.349155+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTI3ODI3ODMx","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1972415","instructor_name":"Simon  Marshall","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2017-02-14 11:24:26 +0000 UTC","comment":"Solid choice for a professor, one of my favorites in the Math Department at UW-Madison","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1972415","quality_rating":4.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:05:30.349155+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTI2MTUwMjU4","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1972415","instructor_name":"Simon  Marshall","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2016-03-16 16:33:27 +0000 UTC","comment":"Real analysis is a tough class, but Simon teaches it very well.  He explains examples and clarifies if you ask, although sometimes might talk down to you (probably because he's so smart).  He also tells some pretty weird jokes, but only once in a while, so they're usually gems.  Overall, he helped me understand the proofs extremely well.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1972415","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:05:30.349155+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTI1OTcxMzU1","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1972415","instructor_name":"Simon  Marshall","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2016-01-20 17:54:35 +0000 UTC","comment":"So math 521 is a very hard class no matter who you take it with. Marshall at least is a very organized and clear lecturer. The homework is tough, but the tests aren't as difficult as the homework (still study a lot!). The final is cumulative so keep refreshing the material.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1972415","quality_rating":4.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:05:30.349155+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTI1NDM1NTI0","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1972415","instructor_name":"Simon  Marshall","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2015-11-17 20:47:01 +0000 UTC","comment":"Great class overall, it's a tough class but he's an outstanding lecturer.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1972415","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:05:29.829507+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM2ODAzODQ1","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2742852","instructor_name":"Simon Schulz","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2022-11-09 18:22:51 +0000 UTC","comment":"worst teacher ever","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2742852","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":1.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:05:29.829507+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM2NDE3MTcw","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2742852","instructor_name":"Simon Schulz","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2022-05-28 03:19:32 +0000 UTC","comment":"awful instructor I've ever had in my college. Ignorant and arrogant instructor. Never take his course","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2742852","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":5.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:05:29.829507+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM2NDAyODYw","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2742852","instructor_name":"Simon Schulz","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2022-05-25 02:07:23 +0000 UTC","comment":"Did not go to his lectures after mid1 because his lectures were so awful. ","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2742852","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":5.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:05:29.829507+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM2NDAyODU0","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2742852","instructor_name":"Simon Schulz","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2022-05-25 02:06:16 +0000 UTC","comment":"Really really awful instructor, never be patient with questions, and will turn youu away if you don't understand materials in lectures. Also with really unclear grading rules, a question mark will cost about 10% of your exam score, but never explain his rubric.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2742852","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":2.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:05:29.829507+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM2NDAyODM2","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2742852","instructor_name":"Simon Schulz","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2022-05-25 02:03:50 +0000 UTC","comment":"Worst math instructor I've ever had. No clear rubric at all, just using random score generator to give you scores. Also, very arrogant that will turn you away from his office hours. Grade exams really slow, on average he will need more than a month to grade your midterms. Awful in lectures,can't speak clearly at all.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2742852","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":1.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:04:44.099891+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTE2MDQwODYx","source_instructor_id":"rmp:167023","instructor_name":"Stephen Wainger","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2009-07-15 13:36:42 +0000 UTC","comment":"Don't listen to these Math 210 students. Prof. Wainger is VERY good as long as you work hard and pay attention. You can't just passively learn this material, which is what I think these people expect out of a Prof. He ALWAYS had time for his students and took a lot of time of his schedule to accommodate his honors kids. I recommend him highly","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/167023","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:04:44.099891+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTEwODYyNzYy","source_instructor_id":"rmp:167023","instructor_name":"Stephen Wainger","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2005-11-09 13:40:59 +0000 UTC","comment":"Very poor teacher. Disorganized, incoherent, cantankerous, unhelpful. Probably one of the worst tenured professors in the Big 10.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/167023","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":2.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:02:24.941136+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTQwOTc4NzQz","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2947786","instructor_name":"Terry Harris","course_label":"Math521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2025-04-18 20:53:37 +0000 UTC","comment":"Homework grading itself appears to be disorganized, and the solutions are often released late, which hinders timely learning and correction. From my perspective, the structure and delivery of this course fall below the typical standard expected within the math department.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2947786","quality_rating":2.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:02:24.941136+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTQwNDQ0OTMz","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2947786","instructor_name":"Terry Harris","course_label":"Math521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2024-12-27 12:54:14 +0000 UTC","comment":"Professor Terry is a good or average lecturer that talk about baby rudin's book in a simplier way and generate his own notes. In addition, he gives the list for all the possible problems that could be on the each exam, which make learning and obtaining a good grade easier. ","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2947786","quality_rating":4.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:02:19.694986+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTI3NjQ5NjU0","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2179519","instructor_name":"Theresa Anderson","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2016-12-31 14:57:57 +0000 UTC","comment":"She will give different explanations and proofs from the book so you have a lot of content to work from. She doesn't just teach straight from the book, she really wants to share what she knows with the class. One of the toughest classes at UW but worth the work.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2179519","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:02:19.694986+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTI3NTQ3NDE4","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2179519","instructor_name":"Theresa Anderson","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2016-12-17 17:41:48 +0000 UTC","comment":"Dr. Anderson is one of those exceptional professors you wish you had for every class. She makes everything easy to understand, even in a class like analysis! She also goes above and beyond when it comes to helping students, holding a ton of extra office hours and review sessions before exams. 10/10 would recommend.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2179519","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:02:19.694986+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTI3MDY1NTY2","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2179519","instructor_name":"Theresa Anderson","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2016-10-22 12:30:43 +0000 UTC","comment":"Is a recent grad and therefore teaches the theoretical tough material better than any older professor I've had. Knows how to make us understand really complex stuff.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2179519","quality_rating":4.0,"difficulty_rating":5.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:02:15.674849+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTQxNzg0Mzg4","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2968678","instructor_name":"Thierry Laurens ","course_label":"Math521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2025-10-31 15:06:53 +0000 UTC","comment":"Real Analysis has a degree of infamy as a course for math students. Laurens spends the time building strong foundations, showcasing examples, and some of the more \"complicated\" topics end up feeling like natural extensions of topics you are already comfortable with. If you have the chance to take a course with Professor Laurens, I recommend it.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2968678","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:02:15.674849+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM5OTQzNjcx","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2968678","instructor_name":"Thierry Laurens ","course_label":"Math521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2024-11-13 23:01:51 +0000 UTC","comment":"My favorite professor I've had. His lecturing is very clear and well-spoken, no accent, he's young but is VERY knowledgeable. I often email and went to office HRs, he always sent extremely helpful responses and takes time to help you if needed. Highly recommend, I'm not great at proofs but his teaching got me a solid B in such a difficult course.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2968678","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:02:15.299111+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM5NDQxMDU1","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2826174","instructor_name":"Trinh Nguyen","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2024-05-11 23:59:22 +0000 UTC","comment":"My critizism is not because it was a hard class, it was because Nguyen showed the least effort I have ever seen in the classroom. Both vocal and written communication is unclear. He expects more memorization than understanding of math. Refuses to grade off of correctness. I have had 13 math professors at UW, most were great. He was the worst. \n","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2826174","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:02:15.299111+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM4NDg0NDYx","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2826174","instructor_name":"Trinh Nguyen","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2024-02-14 23:28:56 +0000 UTC","comment":"Dr. Nguyen was unreachable by email and made no use of Piazza or another platform for questions.  Furthermore, the pace of the class was excruciatingly slow. On multiple occasions we spent over an entire lecture on a single theorem. By the second-to-last week of class we hadn't even gotten to continuity. Waste of time.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2826174","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":2.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:02:15.299111+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM4Nzk1MzU1","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2826174","instructor_name":"Trinh Nguyen","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2023-12-26 18:08:42 +0000 UTC","comment":"If your idea of good prof is someone who rushes through various topics, don't take the course with him. On the other hand, if you want to understand the basics of real analysis, this course is great. He taught the material well and in-depth, rather than checking off a list of topics to be taught. I can see why this may not be everyone's cup of tea.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2826174","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":5.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:02:15.299111+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM4Nzg5MTky","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2826174","instructor_name":"Trinh Nguyen","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2023-12-24 19:05:11 +0000 UTC","comment":"As an econ major first time taking proof-based math, I highly recommend Trinh to those with the same background. I really like the pace; he did not go through the material very quickly, and for some classes, he chose to dig into depth instead of covering more. Problem sets due weekly, but the best way to learn math is to do the problems.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2826174","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:02:15.299111+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM4NzE4OTMw","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2826174","instructor_name":"Trinh Nguyen","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2023-12-17 21:35:11 +0000 UTC","comment":"The class pacing was awful: one week total on Chapters 4 and 7 and we never covered Chapters 5 and 6, so we came out of an analysis class without learning differentiation. Homework is due before their relevant lectures so going to lectures was often just pointless. Completely inaccessible by email so good luck contacting him. Just avoid if possible","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2826174","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:02:15.299111+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM4NzA5MTIy","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2826174","instructor_name":"Trinh Nguyen","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2023-12-16 20:49:30 +0000 UTC","comment":"Underprepares you for further study in undergraduate analysis because the course is incredibly slow in pace. Disorganized mess of a class. Unclear grading criteria. Unhelpful and terrible communicator. Analysis is a wonderful subject in math, but he does a terrible exposee of it. Take with someone else.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2826174","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:02:15.299111+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM4NzA4Mjc4","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2826174","instructor_name":"Trinh Nguyen","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2023-12-16 19:35:48 +0000 UTC","comment":"Just take with someone else. He is too slow and does not teach well and do not help at all.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2826174","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":5.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:02:15.299111+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM4Njk5MDgy","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2826174","instructor_name":"Trinh Nguyen","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2023-12-16 00:24:49 +0000 UTC","comment":"Trinh was slow and made the course essentially self taught. There is minimal value to even going to lectures as I found youtube videos covering the same textbook that were infinitely more helpful in understanding the material. He does not help students through any form of QnA, and doesn't have piazza or respond to emails","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2826174","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:02:15.299111+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM4NTY3MTA3","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2826174","instructor_name":"Trinh Nguyen","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2023-12-08 01:06:21 +0000 UTC","comment":"This professor is very good, but the course is pretty tough. I think he teaches it as well as anyone can. I like the pace of the class. Professor also seems to have an answer for every question. If you want to take the course,  he is a good choice. ","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2826174","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":5.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:02:15.299111+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM4MjkxNzY4","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2826174","instructor_name":"Trinh Nguyen","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2023-10-20 01:15:36 +0000 UTC","comment":"This class is a delight, with a wonderful professor whose knowledge and passion for the subject shines through in every lecture. The harsh reviews are misleading and tell you more about the students than the professor. If you don't like real analysis, why are you majoring in math? Did you take the course because you wanted to or because you had to?","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2826174","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":5.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:02:15.299111+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM4Mjc2NzQ5","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2826174","instructor_name":"Trinh Nguyen","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2023-10-15 23:03:02 +0000 UTC","comment":"Other reviews are far too harsh. He is by no means amazing, and he can be difficult to understand, but he more than makes up for this with being a very light grader, and assigning fairly easy homework. MATH 521 is a challenging class no matter what, but he holds the class's hand through the whole thing and makes it very manageable. Would recommend.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2826174","quality_rating":3.0,"difficulty_rating":2.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:02:15.299111+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM4MTA0MTgx","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2826174","instructor_name":"Trinh Nguyen","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2023-07-14 23:38:50 +0000 UTC","comment":"Worst professor I've ever had in my academic career. His English is terrible and he's *extremely* difficult to understand, which is bad for as difficult a class as real analysis, since he doesn't explain concepts well at all. Very harsh grader on exams--prepare to get almost no partial credit. I got an A but it took all I had. PLEASE AVOID.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2826174","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":5.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:02:15.299111+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM3OTA2MzM0","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2826174","instructor_name":"Trinh Nguyen","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2023-05-12 05:58:33 +0000 UTC","comment":"First, this is not a review of Nguyen as a person but just as a prof. He is really bad at teaching and do not explain concept well. His English is hard to understand and no practice exams. In addition, exams are graded really hard in small details and weighted reall high. And the exam styles are not consistent. Lots of HW. Avoid at all cost.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2826174","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":5.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:01:48.471263+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTE4NjY4NjEw","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1006782","instructor_name":"Timo Seppalainen","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2011-05-26 16:55:40 +0000 UTC","comment":"Always well prepared. Incredibly available to support students. Very encouraging and fair. By far the best experience I've ever had with a math professor, I added a math major in large part because of my experience with Timo in this class.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1006782","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":2.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:01:22.357594+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM3NzY2NzU3","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2849345","instructor_name":"Tongou Yang","course_label":"Math521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2023-04-30 18:59:58 +0000 UTC","comment":"While the grade consists of 2 exams and biweekly homework, I thought Prof. Yang was very generous with grading. His lectures were detailed and he provided lecture notes online. One of my favorite math professors at UW. ","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2849345","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:01:09.891007+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTMyMzkzNDQ4","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2470499","instructor_name":"Trevor Leslie","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2019-11-11 20:14:19 +0000 UTC","comment":"Trevor is the best prof I had at the math department. His lecture is very clear! He puts so much time and effort into the class. He typed up his notes, detailed homework solutions and uploaded them all onto canvas. Trevor is a great professor and a great person! Exams are very fair and there are extra credit on the exam. Def take a class with him!","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2470499","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":2.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:01:09.891007+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTMxODA2MDEz","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2470499","instructor_name":"Trevor Leslie","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2019-05-08 02:55:40 +0000 UTC","comment":"Hard class but Trevor makes it as straightforward as can be. Fast paced but very well thought out lectures, accompanied by custom lecture notes that he himself prepared. It's very obvious that Trevor has an aptitude for teaching, and you will learn a lot from him.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2470499","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:01:09.891007+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTMxNzUxNTc5","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2470499","instructor_name":"Trevor Leslie","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2019-05-02 21:45:28 +0000 UTC","comment":"Best math professor I've met in UW-madison so far. Intelligent, passionate, humorous, caring, humble. More useful stuff: no textbooks, use his own notes for the course; a lot of challenging homework questions(basically no solutions online, due weekly) that really make you think; exams are easier than homework questions. Just take his course.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2470499","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":5.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:01:09.891007+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTMxNDYxOTQw","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2470499","instructor_name":"Trevor Leslie","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2019-03-21 15:18:54 +0000 UTC","comment":"First analysis is generally a really hard class. So no matter the professor this class will be hard. Trevor is a new teacher but he is very nice and you can tell he cares about students. There is a lot of homework for this class, and it is a lot of work in general. But I think he is one of the best professors to take this class with!","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2470499","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":5.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:00:24.146487+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM5MDE0MDI1","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1503053","instructor_name":"Uri Andrews","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2024-03-01 01:05:16 +0000 UTC","comment":"[Summer 2023] A lot of unforgiving homework (18 problems a week) which are only graded (and given feedback) on a few random questions. Prof wasn't that accessible over the term. Otherwise the lectures are informative.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1503053","quality_rating":2.0,"difficulty_rating":5.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:00:24.146487+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM4MTY4MjE5","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1503053","instructor_name":"Uri Andrews","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2023-08-15 22:25:06 +0000 UTC","comment":"I took Professor Andrews for Math 521 over the summer term. Prof Andrews was extremely inaccessible, and he never once would respond to an email, comment, or piazza post I made. His homework load was unbearable, especially during the shortened summer term, and I lost a large part of my summer due to that, although I did like his lectures.  ","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1503053","quality_rating":2.0,"difficulty_rating":5.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:00:24.146487+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTIyNjUwNjcy","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1503053","instructor_name":"Uri Andrews","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2013-12-24 10:59:21 +0000 UTC","comment":"Extremely clear during lectures. Proofs very easy to follow. However watch out for the homework and tests, they're very hard.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1503053","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":2.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:00:24.146487+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTIyMDY0ODYy","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1503053","instructor_name":"Uri Andrews","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2013-08-19 00:40:57 +0000 UTC","comment":"Uri's teaching style is very clear, but his exam is extremely difficult. try to avoid this professor or just made an audition.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1503053","quality_rating":3.0,"difficulty_rating":5.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:00:24.146487+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTIxODMxMzkx","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1503053","instructor_name":"Uri Andrews","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2013-05-27 11:28:30 +0000 UTC","comment":"Very helpful in office hour. Although the course is not easy, he simplifies the content and makes the course very interesting. Just take it if you want to choose a proof based course.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1503053","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:00:24.146487+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTIxNzk4NDY1","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1503053","instructor_name":"Uri Andrews","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2013-05-20 17:37:46 +0000 UTC","comment":"Ba ba ba ba ba BOSSSS. Highly recommend for any upper level math course.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1503053","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:00:24.146487+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTIxNTMxMTcw","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1503053","instructor_name":"Uri Andrews","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2013-04-13 20:58:57 +0000 UTC","comment":"highly recommended..tries to reduce formalism to the absolute minimum but does not make things more simple than they actually are. explains things so they make sense intuitively... perfect prof for a proof based course","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1503053","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":2.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:00:24.146487+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTIxNTIwNjky","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1503053","instructor_name":"Uri Andrews","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2013-04-11 16:21:49 +0000 UTC","comment":"Uri Andrews is amazing: his lectures are engaging, and he is incredibly clear and methodical in his proofs.  On that note, yes, the assignments and exams are proofs, but unlike what many of the low-raters have said, you only need to become comfortable with the material to be able to do well.  He is incredibly helpful in office hours as well.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1503053","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":5.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:00:24.146487+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTIxMzEwNTMw","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1503053","instructor_name":"Uri Andrews","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2013-01-31 00:17:00 +0000 UTC","comment":"Professor Andrews is fantastic.  He is very clear in proofs, and his classes are anything but dry.  I would highly recommend him for any upper level math classes.  If you are looking for a lower level math class (below 340), suck at math and want to avoid learning anything, then yes.  You won't like Professor Andrews.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1503053","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:00:24.146487+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTIxMTYyODk5","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1503053","instructor_name":"Uri Andrews","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2012-12-24 14:00:09 +0000 UTC","comment":"Andrews was a good prof for 521. Lectures were very clear and he was helpful and respectful in office hours. He gave a ton of homework, but exams were fair and grading was reasonable. As mentioned by others, he doesn't like to give any information about the curve or how grades will be assigned.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1503053","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:00:24.146487+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTIxMTQ2NjEx","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1503053","instructor_name":"Uri Andrews","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2012-12-21 13:48:16 +0000 UTC","comment":"The class is hard, but Andrews is pretty helpful.  Lectures are fairly clear, especially if you read the book before the lecture.  He's always very willing to further explain things if you ask him, both in and out of class.  His grading is dodgy though - there's no explicit grading system.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1503053","quality_rating":4.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 15:58:41.522075+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTIyMTUyODA5","source_instructor_id":"rmp:517842","instructor_name":"Xianghong Gong","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2013-10-02 17:14:25 +0000 UTC","comment":"Prof. Gong made extra efforts in ensuring that students understood the fundamentals of the course materials. He held extra problem solving sessions to go over difficult exercises. I would highly recommend taking his real analysis class.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/517842","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 15:58:41.522075+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTIyMDU0NjM3","source_instructor_id":"rmp:517842","instructor_name":"Xianghong Gong","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2013-08-14 21:39:38 +0000 UTC","comment":"Professor Gong is a good professor that suffers from a thick foreign accent. He knows the material well, and cares very much that students understand it. He provided out-of-class review sessions before exams. If you can follow the board without fully understanding his words, you could not do much better. But do keep in mind that analysis *is* hard.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/517842","quality_rating":3.0,"difficulty_rating":2.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 15:58:41.522075+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTIxMzMwMjQ2","source_instructor_id":"rmp:517842","instructor_name":"Xianghong Gong","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2013-02-08 15:12:04 +0000 UTC","comment":"Nice guy, very helpful, and he wants you to learn.  Unfortunately, he's really crappy at explaining stuff. Also, his blackboard work is prone to errors that a struggling student will not catch.  If you’re gifted at math, Dr. Gong might actually be a great prof for you.  Otherwise, hold out for someone with more natural ability for explaining stuff.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/517842","quality_rating":3.0,"difficulty_rating":5.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 15:58:41.522075+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTE4MTg3MDQ5","source_instructor_id":"rmp:517842","instructor_name":"Xianghong Gong","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2011-01-27 10:36:47 +0000 UTC","comment":"Do not take under any circumstances.  Poor structure to lectures, obfuscates basic conclusions, unable to communicate any overarching structure to class, frequently marks correct answers wrong and argues forever before giving minimal points back, makes students in front row uncomfortable, and doesn?t explain the actual grading policy used.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/517842","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":2.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 15:58:41.522075+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTE4MDQ0NzM0","source_instructor_id":"rmp:517842","instructor_name":"Xianghong Gong","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2010-12-26 14:54:39 +0000 UTC","comment":"Terrible prof.  Avoid at all costs!  I loved the material before he tried to teach it.  He makes students feel awkward, frequently marked my correct answers wrong, and can't convey a concept.  He is never clear about what he assumes in proofs.  His grading policy is confusing and his exams are unrelated to homework, lecture, or review sheets.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/517842","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 15:58:41.522075+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTE4MDQ0MzIz","source_instructor_id":"rmp:517842","instructor_name":"Xianghong Gong","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2010-12-26 13:16:25 +0000 UTC","comment":"Worst teacher EVER.He is undeniably knowledgeable but he is incapable of communicating the material.PROS:there are re-do exams.CONS:Cannot speak proper English,often makes mistakes in lecture and becomes defensive when students raise it,unorganized lecture,bad handwritings,tough exams,no official course website,late response to emails.AVOID HIM.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/517842","quality_rating":2.0,"difficulty_rating":5.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 15:58:41.522075+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTE3OTMwNjky","source_instructor_id":"rmp:517842","instructor_name":"Xianghong Gong","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2010-12-13 20:36:02 +0000 UTC","comment":"He is very willing to help you understand a concept. All in  all, he is a nice guy. However, his lectures move  quickly and are hard to understand. I truly learned a lot from the class, but that was mostly a result of studying on my own. He assigns tough homework, but will help you with it and you learn a lot from it. The tests are too hard though.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/517842","quality_rating":4.0,"difficulty_rating":5.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 15:58:41.522075+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTE3ODAzMzY4","source_instructor_id":"rmp:517842","instructor_name":"Xianghong Gong","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2010-11-22 00:18:12 +0000 UTC","comment":"Worst Teacher Ever. He is very arrogant, does not speak English, and his lecture is full of mistakes. I went to ask him a question after class, he mumbled, and talked down to me and did not answer my question. He uses stuff that he never defined in class. His lecture is very incomplete. Avoid taking a class with him at all cost.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/517842","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 15:58:41.522075+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTE3NjkxNzA1","source_instructor_id":"rmp:517842","instructor_name":"Xianghong Gong","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2010-10-25 21:46:51 +0000 UTC","comment":"Prof. Gong is a good professor.  A great mathematician, he is able to help students who have interest in the subject.  That said, 521 is a difficult class and many students will not succeed regardless of the instruction.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/517842","quality_rating":4.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 15:58:41.522075+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTE3NjkxNjgy","source_instructor_id":"rmp:517842","instructor_name":"Xianghong Gong","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2010-10-25 21:42:18 +0000 UTC","comment":"Give him a chance! Gong knows the material inside and out, and, with some effort from the student, he is effective at communication.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/517842","quality_rating":3.0,"difficulty_rating":5.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 15:58:41.522075+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTEwNjY2NDU3","source_instructor_id":"rmp:517842","instructor_name":"Xianghong Gong","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2005-10-30 21:53:00 +0000 UTC","comment":"The worst professor I've ever had or even had any contact with all my life. He speaks English very VERY VERY badly, rewrites the textbook on the board at the speed of light, and he’s completely in capable of explaining/answering any question since he doesn’t even understand what he is asked. He is traumatizing. Seriously, do not take his class you ","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/517842","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 15:58:25.641114+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTE5NzAxMDAx","source_instructor_id":"rmp:791230","instructor_name":"Xiuxiong Chen","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2012-01-10 02:13:22 +0000 UTC","comment":"similar report as other classes; professor often made his grad student teach, and wasn't particularly more clear than the book at explaining the material (which he followed exactly at a slow pace). Selected homework on the spot in class from the easiest problems in the section. Exams were a regurgitation of the book and homework. Ended up skipping.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/791230","quality_rating":2.0,"difficulty_rating":1.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 15:58:06.713405+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTE1NDU0NzQw","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1090935","instructor_name":"Yannan Qiu","course_label":"MATH521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2009-02-10 18:30:02 +0000 UTC","comment":"Did a good job for this difficult class.  First and second exams were fairly easy with 3 or 4 problems out of 5 being right off the homework.  The final was much, much ore difficult.  Overall, good professor.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1090935","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 15:58:01.953760+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTQzMzAwNzA3","source_instructor_id":"rmp:3041657","instructor_name":"Yayi Fu","course_label":"Math521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2026-07-13 16:58:33 +0000 UTC","comment":"Yes, she essentially just copies the textbook and isn't super engaging. However, you will still learn the material. She is very fair in grading and expectations and makes it easy to do well in the class if you try at all. She does cover a lot of material. Any complaints about accents or how quiet she is are untrue; she is completely understandable.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/3041657","quality_rating":3.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 15:58:01.953760+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTQzMDg0MDkz","source_instructor_id":"rmp:3041657","instructor_name":"Yayi Fu","course_label":"Math521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2026-05-10 04:56:32 +0000 UTC","comment":"I believe you will either love or hate this course. If you are taking 521 with her, I would advise taking 421 or 375-6 before. She covers a massive amount of material, which can get very overwhelming. That said, I learned analysis at such a deep level from taking her course. The exams are straightforward enough if you prepare properly.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/3041657","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 15:58:01.953760+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTQzMDg0MDI1","source_instructor_id":"rmp:3041657","instructor_name":"Yayi Fu","course_label":"Math521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2026-05-10 04:38:14 +0000 UTC","comment":"Lectures are indeed quite boring, but she is extremely fair. For midterms, all exam questions are taken verbatim from the review exercises in her notes (and she tells you this, so getting nearly 100% on both midterms is very feasible). Final is harder, worth 40% of your grade, but is doable.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/3041657","quality_rating":3.0,"difficulty_rating":2.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 15:58:01.953760+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTQyNzA2OTg0","source_instructor_id":"rmp:3041657","instructor_name":"Yayi Fu","course_label":"Math521","course_id":"MATH 521","course_uid":"course_364c50303ed83d1234b4ea51","review_date":"2026-03-17 16:23:31 +0000 UTC","comment":"The lectures are just bad. She goes very fast and reads straight out of her notes. Exams are odd, a lot of reproducing proofs from class/notes, but also then easier to study for. She does a decent job picking reasonably easy problems and grades generously, but definitely plan to supplement lectures with her notes and other texts.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/3041657","quality_rating":2.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0}]