[{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:57:13.597116+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM2ODc4ODM2","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2631572","instructor_name":"Albert Ai","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2022-11-22 04:57:33 +0000 UTC","comment":"Professor Ai is always patient and caring. He writes math proofs on board carefully and rigorously. He often provides the motivation for the mathematical concepts and has a good organization of course content. ","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2631572","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:57:13.597116+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM1MjIxNDIx","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2631572","instructor_name":"Albert Ai","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2021-11-10 22:03:49 +0000 UTC","comment":"Honestly, one of the better professors for math 431. The material is relatively easy, but Albert tries to explain the deeper reasonings for each problem to prepare for later problems in the book. Realistically, any professor would be the same in the course since they all teach directly from the UW-licensed book in order.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2631572","quality_rating":3.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:57:13.597116+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM0MDM1NDEx","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2631572","instructor_name":"Albert Ai","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2020-12-11 19:55:03 +0000 UTC","comment":"actually garbage, avoid at all costs. the problem is the class is relatively easy but its explained so poorly its impossible to know what's going on. Literally lecture is watching professor ai fill 2 entire pages with greek symbols and random syntax to "explain" something like flipping a coin. The worst professor Ive ever had.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2631572","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":5.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:57:13.597116+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM0MDI3MDQ5","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2631572","instructor_name":"Albert Ai","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2020-12-11 02:52:34 +0000 UTC","comment":"Not responsive to questions on online forum. Doesn't present challenging topics clearly in class. Doesn't have a strong handle on the material he's teaching. Homework is not representative of what's covered on exams. Don't take the course with him, seriously.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2631572","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:57:13.597116+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTMzODU1MjYy","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2631572","instructor_name":"Albert Ai","course_label":"STAT431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2020-11-20 03:09:53 +0000 UTC","comment":"The exam is very difficult, Fast progress. Suitable for students who like to challenge themselves","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2631572","quality_rating":2.0,"difficulty_rating":5.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:57:00.058195+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTE3MTM3OTEy","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1326966","instructor_name":"Alexander Fish","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2010-05-06 15:14:23 +0000 UTC","comment":"A. Fish is a good guy and wants his students to learn.  Although Probability was a difficult course he tried to get everyone to learn.  Homework was hard but always helpful in office hours.  He gave practice questions for each exam and was generous in grading.  Study your notes and do a lot of problems on your own and you will do fine like me :)","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1326966","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":2.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:56:57.594978+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTE4MDIwNDM5","source_instructor_id":"rmp:890956","instructor_name":"Alexander Kiselev","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2010-12-22 01:18:48 +0000 UTC","comment":"Okay professor. When I went to his office hours, he just ran through the problems in a very theoretical way, which was not helpful. I got a bad grade on one exam and it screwed me over for the course. Be prepared to do a lot of reading on your own. He crammed a ton of info in the last 2 weeks because he ran out of time. Overall, not bad, not great.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/890956","quality_rating":2.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:56:57.594978+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTEzMzE4OTkz","source_instructor_id":"rmp:890956","instructor_name":"Alexander Kiselev","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2007-07-09 14:46:25 +0000 UTC","comment":"He ia a very likable professor, but not the greatest teacher.  Sometimes did not adequately prepare us for the exams and there were questions that were completely foreign material.  Grades homework and tests hard, and is not very organized.  Better than most Math professors though.  If you take him be prepared to work hard and on your own.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/890956","quality_rating":3.0,"difficulty_rating":5.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:52:13.892497+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM5ODU0Njky","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1566085","instructor_name":"Benedek Valko","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2024-10-25 17:34:28 +0000 UTC","comment":"I don't get the criticism Valko gets. He gives detailed explanation in class, is happy to help everyone who comes to his OH and once spent 50 min doing review with me. When I had personal diffculties, he gave me extension or drop that HW. He adjusted the exam weights to award gradual improvements.\nYou can get an A without being a math genius.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1566085","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:52:13.892497+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM5Mzk1NzYx","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1566085","instructor_name":"Benedek Valko","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2024-09-19 20:45:03 +0000 UTC","comment":"If you are not a MATH major student, don't take this course. BV is indeed an understanding prof but his lecture only focused on the textbook. Also gave tough grading and hard questions on exams.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1566085","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":5.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:52:13.892497+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM5Njg3ODI5","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1566085","instructor_name":"Benedek Valko","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2024-08-17 01:33:30 +0000 UTC","comment":"He only likes to help you if you are a top student in the class. ","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1566085","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:52:13.892497+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM5NDk3MTYw","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1566085","instructor_name":"Benedek Valko","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2024-05-20 17:18:21 +0000 UTC","comment":"Valko is very good. As all math teachers, he may seem a little abrasive, but he is genuinely nice and understanding. Each lecture is dense, and covers the topics from the book. There is HW and a quiz due every week. Tests aren't bad if you do practice problems, but you NEED to understand them and do them, tests arent harder than homework. ","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1566085","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:52:13.892497+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM4OTE0MzA0","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1566085","instructor_name":"Benedek Valko","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2024-01-23 04:48:43 +0000 UTC","comment":"Valko is one of the best math lectures at UW. 431 is his magnum opus, and his book is a great companion to his amazing lectures. Homework's were lengthy and exams were on the tough side, but very fair. I put a lot of work in and got a lot out of the course. I think my grade reflected that as well. If you're going to take 431, take it with Valko.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1566085","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:52:13.892497+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM4ODc4MDY3","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1566085","instructor_name":"Benedek Valko","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2024-01-13 23:18:18 +0000 UTC","comment":"Wonderful professor, cares about students, explains things clearly and grades generously.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1566085","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:52:13.892497+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM4ODExMjMw","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1566085","instructor_name":"Benedek Valko","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2023-12-30 09:05:09 +0000 UTC","comment":"Prof Valko was great. He does a great job at building up probability concepts from the ground up, explaining things using only the concepts taught so far, and he was very helpful when asking questions or seeking clarification. His lectures can be a little heavy / fast, but he provides all the resources needed and is available plenty outside class. ","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1566085","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:52:13.892497+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM4ODAyNTM5","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1566085","instructor_name":"Benedek Valko","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2023-12-28 03:22:41 +0000 UTC","comment":"I think professor Valko is great. Math 431 was not a difficult class at all because he made all the lectures and concepts extremely clear. The class is organized well. There were quite a few homeworks and they do prepare you well for the exams and consolidate the content. Prof. Valko is also very good at lecture. Highly recommended.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1566085","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:52:13.892497+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM4NzEyODc1","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1566085","instructor_name":"Benedek Valko","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2023-12-17 03:04:45 +0000 UTC","comment":"Prof Valko is a great professor who really knows the content. He explains difficult concepts in probability in an understanding way. He goes through a lot of examples that are helpful and answers questions. 431 is a bit difficult just because of the topics covered and it can be difficult to understand parts of it but overall I enjoyed the course.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1566085","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:52:13.892497+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM4NDQ5OTIy","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1566085","instructor_name":"Benedek Valko","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2023-11-28 14:40:20 +0000 UTC","comment":"Professor Valko was a great prof. for Math 431. While the course does move rather quickly, he is extremely approachable both in and out of class and is always willing to take time to explain confusing concepts. His lectures are not required, but are extremely beneficial for learning as he covers many examples that are related to exam problems.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1566085","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:52:13.892497+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM4MTAzNzE3","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1566085","instructor_name":"Benedek Valko","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2023-07-14 18:46:10 +0000 UTC","comment":"Valko graded exams extremely harshly, partial credit was not possible unless you were completely right. Answers that were correct did not receive full credit as he expected you to write answers as if you were teaching a lesson on the topic or explaining it to someone who missed class (his words). I would not recommend him, take it with another prof","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1566085","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:52:13.892497+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM3MTU4ODgz","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1566085","instructor_name":"Benedek Valko","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2022-12-16 19:53:18 +0000 UTC","comment":"The class was taught at a somewhat rapid pace, but Professor Valko was willing to spend hours outside of lecture helping myself and other students understand the concepts. Although my grade in the class was not phenomenal, I would definitely recommend taking a class with him.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1566085","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:52:13.892497+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTI3NjE1NjEw","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1566085","instructor_name":"Benedek Valko","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2016-12-24 00:43:28 +0000 UTC","comment":"Professor Valko is probably the most competent professor I have had at Madison. His lectures are awesome and he makes sure you understand the material before he moves on. He is also willing to help you out and weigh things differently if you do bad on the first test but improve over the course of the semester.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1566085","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:48:59.613596+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTQyMzE4Njcz","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2652881","instructor_name":"Chenxi Wu","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2025-12-17 23:33:42 +0000 UTC","comment":"Chenxi should not teach undergrads, but don't be too scared of his low rating. He goes way too deep into the theory, given what is on the homework on exams, but he cares a lot about his students and asks for a lot of feedback. His lectures are confusing, but he can come up with examples on the spot if you ask him, which helps clarify things. ","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2652881","quality_rating":4.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:45:38.433824+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTI4MTgwNTM1","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2180017","instructor_name":"Daniele Cappelletti","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2017-05-01 23:58:56 +0000 UTC","comment":"Daniele was a really good teacher! He always came to class prepared and explained concepts in a way that was much easier to understand than the way the textbook presented them. He was super nice to his students, and he always tried his best to meet with them (he stayed 3 hours past his office hours to help us cram for the first midterm).","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2180017","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:44:28.139912+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTE4MTAzMjkw","source_instructor_id":"rmp:266740","instructor_name":"David Griffeath","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2011-01-08 16:18:52 +0000 UTC","comment":"It's a shame David is retiring, but he is by far one of the best math teachers anyone can have. He has great stories to explain the topics. Makes the class fun and interesting. GO TO OFFICE HOURS and you'll be fine.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/266740","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":5.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:44:28.139912+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTE4MDMyNzM1","source_instructor_id":"rmp:266740","instructor_name":"David Griffeath","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2010-12-23 15:16:45 +0000 UTC","comment":"Great professor! Very helpful at office hours, sometimes spends too much time telling stories in class, but they are interesting. Definitely learned a lot about probability and would take a class with David in the future. Exams are challenging and homework takes a very long time to do, but if you read the book and go to office hours it is doable","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/266740","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":5.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:44:28.139912+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTE0Nzc5MjQ2","source_instructor_id":"rmp:266740","instructor_name":"David Griffeath","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2008-08-27 10:51:01 +0000 UTC","comment":"He's among the worst professors in the department. He only covered 40% of the book. Tests are hard. Course materials are easy, but he made me hate probability now. Exam problems are from the lectures, so go to the lectures, although he wastes 40% of lecture time complaining on the reduction in the math dept budget. Avoid him if you can.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/266740","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":5.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:44:28.139912+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTE0Mjc0NDYz","source_instructor_id":"rmp:266740","instructor_name":"David Griffeath","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2008-04-10 22:05:17 +0000 UTC","comment":"No Comments","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/266740","quality_rating":3.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:44:28.139912+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTI3NDEwNjg=","source_instructor_id":"rmp:266740","instructor_name":"David Griffeath","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2004-11-15 16:14:20 +0000 UTC","comment":"he's sweet","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/266740","quality_rating":2.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:43:27.145832+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM2NjQ4NTk5","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2697840","instructor_name":"Dohyun Kwon","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2022-09-18 21:00:45 +0000 UTC","comment":"His lectures are him taking notes out of the textbook, he will use exactly the same examples as the textbook. I found the textbook a good resource for the class though. He will ask for questions, wait two seconds, and then move on. Going to office hours is helpful for the homework. Practice exams were much easier than the exams. ","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2697840","quality_rating":2.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:43:27.145832+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM1ODY3OTI2","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2697840","instructor_name":"Dohyun Kwon","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2022-02-20 02:07:24 +0000 UTC","comment":"Actually nice professor, he uses comments on piazza to calculate the extra credit. Make sure you have full points cuz I was only 1 pt below AB and that was how extra credit came into handy. However, his exams are extremely hard. But he also sets a generous curve.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2697840","quality_rating":4.0,"difficulty_rating":5.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:43:27.145832+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM0NzYyMTEw","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2697840","instructor_name":"Dohyun Kwon","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2021-05-11 11:24:21 +0000 UTC","comment":"Prof Kwon is really accessible after class. He always replies emails or questions posted on piazza really quick ( roughly in one day). One thing I really appreciate is that he always endorse the questions students post on the piazza no matter how stupid they are. His lecture is clear and well organized. However, his exams are extremely difficult.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2697840","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:40:29.469678+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM3OTI0ODMz","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2643061","instructor_name":"Erik Bates","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2023-05-15 07:11:06 +0000 UTC","comment":"Well, it is very complicated to determine whether it is a good or bad class. It is very true that he is a responsible lecturer. He is super nice and caring. His lecture is clear. However he does make the final extremely challenging. It felt like he intentionally make the exam hard so that everyone fails this class. The reviews are very misguiding.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2643061","quality_rating":3.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:40:29.469678+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM3ODk1MDY2","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2643061","instructor_name":"Erik Bates","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2023-05-11 06:00:04 +0000 UTC","comment":"Erik is the GOAT! He will be one of the best professors you have. He's caring, funny, empathetic, fair and goes above and beyond for his students and cares about their success.  The worst thing about Erik is that when I didn't do well, I felt like I had nobody to blame but myself because he seriously seemed to be doing everything he could lol\n\n\n\n\n","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2643061","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:40:29.469678+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM3Nzc4OTkz","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2643061","instructor_name":"Erik Bates","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2023-05-01 20:34:07 +0000 UTC","comment":"Hands down the best professor you will ever have in college, TAKE HIS CLASSES IF YOU CAN, very knowledgeable and knows how to get you to understand, exams are very fair with nothing unexpected, he is great ","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2643061","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:40:29.469678+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM3NjcwMzc0","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2643061","instructor_name":"Erik Bates","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2023-04-20 02:35:15 +0000 UTC","comment":"If you're in a different university reading this, take his course. TAKE IT. You will not regret it. Such a fun professor makes everything so much fun. I wish I could take more courses with him! He really makes the course very interesting and loves teaching. He is very accessible and loves helping out!!!","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2643061","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":2.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:40:29.469678+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM2MzMzNTI2","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2643061","instructor_name":"Erik Bates","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2022-05-13 20:17:09 +0000 UTC","comment":"Erik is the ever best professor I have met during my whole life. He always strives to explain the concept intuitively and experimentally, so we can enjoy the beauty of probability. Erik's lecture is super amazing and logically connected. He is very nice and accessible outside class, and the office hours are plenty and funny. Take his courses!!!!!","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2643061","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:40:29.469678+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM2MjQzMDI0","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2643061","instructor_name":"Erik Bates","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2022-05-04 20:27:18 +0000 UTC","comment":"If every math professor was like Erik Bates, Wisconsin would have one of the best math departments in the nation. I went into every exam confident and never encountered any material that wasn't covered in section. HW is on par with other math courses. Bates cares about his students success. Will enroll in any of his future classes in a heartbeat.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2643061","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:38:03.703240+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTIwNjM0NTAw","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1498874","instructor_name":"Gregorio Moreno-Flores","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2012-09-09 15:23:15 +0000 UTC","comment":"He's funny, helpful, and have nice handwriting. Easy to follow, not like many math profs. Definitely going to his class for complete notes, will help you for exams, A LOT. Fair grading as well.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1498874","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:38:03.703240+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTE5NzIzNDI5","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1498874","instructor_name":"Gregorio Moreno-Flores","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2012-01-13 17:15:21 +0000 UTC","comment":"Such a nice professor. He helped me a lot before the final and his grading was very fair.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1498874","quality_rating":4.0,"difficulty_rating":1.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:38:03.703240+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTE5NTU4OTgy","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1498874","instructor_name":"Gregorio Moreno-Flores","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2011-12-18 11:08:09 +0000 UTC","comment":"Not a fan of him at all. Very hard to understand since he is so quiet. Not helpful during office hours since he only takes one person at a time. Tests are very unpredictable. Very difficult. Not for the weary.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1498874","quality_rating":2.0,"difficulty_rating":5.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:38:03.703240+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTE5NTUyNTkw","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1498874","instructor_name":"Gregorio Moreno-Flores","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2011-12-17 15:10:58 +0000 UTC","comment":"He is an average instructor. Clear about his material, but sticks to whatever is on the textbook. I like him because his handwriting is very clear, and he is helpful when answering questions. I do not like him because he cannot explain complex theorems very well, and his exams are not predictable. Besides, he rarely arrives in class on time -__-.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1498874","quality_rating":4.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:38:03.703240+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTE5NDMxMDEw","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1498874","instructor_name":"Gregorio Moreno-Flores","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2011-12-08 19:36:01 +0000 UTC","comment":"He is helpful and nice and always willing to explain until you understand. Very approachable. However, his class was very difficult, and what will appear on the exam is unpredictable. In this class, you will deal with a lot of theories behind probability, and he's not very clear when explaining the concepts.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1498874","quality_rating":3.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:38:03.703240+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTE4ODgzOTA2","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1498874","instructor_name":"Gregorio Moreno-Flores","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2011-08-04 18:05:35 +0000 UTC","comment":"without a doubt, the best math professor i've had here.  helpful, clear, and straightforward.  he even has a sense of humor!  take one of his classes, if possible.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1498874","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:37:58.407068+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTMyMjcyNTYx","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1772334","instructor_name":"Gregory Shinault","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2019-10-09 04:06:52 +0000 UTC","comment":"Even Though I failed this class, he was the one of the nicest guy I've ever met. His lecture is well-organized and easy to follow. However, sometimes what his problems and examples are beyond our knowledge.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1772334","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:37:58.407068+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTMxNzcwODg4","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1772334","instructor_name":"Gregory Shinault","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2019-05-04 22:08:15 +0000 UTC","comment":"The best math instructor I've had at Madison. That isn't really saying much, I've had pretty poor luck with math professors. But he was WAY better than the others. Very clear and calm lecturer, you may almost fall asleep with how soft spoken he is. Go to lecture, it's not necessary but his explanations are so useful and expand on textbook so well.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1772334","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:37:58.407068+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTMxNzUzNTg1","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1772334","instructor_name":"Gregory Shinault","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2019-05-03 00:20:11 +0000 UTC","comment":"Shinault is unironically the best lecturer I've ever had. He seemed to know exactly where stumbling points were in the material he taught, and always pointed them out without any sort of condescension. He left fantastically detailed comments on homework, and never failed to explain the application of the (probability) tools he taught. 10/10","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1772334","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:37:58.407068+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTMxMjQxODQx","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1772334","instructor_name":"Gregory Shinault","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2019-01-11 02:38:53 +0000 UTC","comment":"MATH431 You learn a lot, but it is difficult. It is not possible to learn everything by yourself, the textbook/internet alone are not sufficient, you must go to lecture, office hours recommended. First two months are easy but it ramps up. Average grade for exams is a mid-low B. Final is noticeably harder so nail the first two exams+hw. Good prof.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1772334","quality_rating":4.0,"difficulty_rating":5.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:37:58.407068+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTI5Nzg2ODAx","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1772334","instructor_name":"Gregory Shinault","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2018-04-11 19:17:50 +0000 UTC","comment":"Greg paces his lectures beautifully - you don't feel like a lot of material is being thrown at you because you have a chance to breathe and take it all in. He is also very clear about what he wants from the student and isn't the easiest, but definitely the best math professor in this university.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1772334","quality_rating":4.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:37:58.407068+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTIzODUzMTM2","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1772334","instructor_name":"Gregory Shinault","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2014-11-19 17:09:18 +0000 UTC","comment":"Great professor. What other reviews describe as him being disinterested is actually him taking time to phrase things the best possible way during lecture. Lectures are always clear. Homework assignments were kind of tough for me, but tests were incredibly straightforward and very similar to the practice tests he gave out. Definitely would recommend","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1772334","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:37:58.407068+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTIzNTc5OTkx","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1772334","instructor_name":"Gregory Shinault","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2014-09-06 13:05:53 +0000 UTC","comment":"I had Greg Shinault before for Math 340 and took him again for Math 431. He really is a great professor, he is laid back, and that can be upsetting to some, but he is a consummate professional. He knows the material inside and out. He will answer all your questions in full detail, in office hour. And he has a dry wit that keeps lectures fresh!","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1772334","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":2.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:37:58.407068+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTIzMDAxODE0","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1772334","instructor_name":"Gregory Shinault","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2014-04-07 18:32:55 +0000 UTC","comment":"He is definitely not interested in teaching the class and seems as he wanted to be somewhere else while teaching the class. Assignments are always posted about 3 days before it is due (they are not that hard). The course is nice, but I do not recommend this professor.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1772334","quality_rating":2.0,"difficulty_rating":2.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:37:58.407068+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTIyNjQzOTU4","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1772334","instructor_name":"Gregory Shinault","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2013-12-23 01:47:54 +0000 UTC","comment":"I was not impressed with Gregory Shinault. He was not organized and did not present class material in a clear manner. The few times I went to office hours, I spent the entire time waiting for him to try to figure out the homework assignments. I would advise against taking this professor for Math 431.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1772334","quality_rating":2.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:37:11.740384+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM0NjA3OTc1","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2674823","instructor_name":"Hao Shen","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2021-04-23 12:27:20 +0000 UTC","comment":"Absolute gem in the math department. Oasis in the desert. Very understanding and flexible. Very accomodating with your specific needs. Lectures are to the point. Homeworks are fair and often out of the book. Gives extensions if you need it. Exams are easy, based on practice exams. 100% recommend for 431 if you have the chance.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2674823","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":2.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:37:11.740384+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM0NDEwOTI5","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2674823","instructor_name":"Hao Shen","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2021-03-05 02:04:17 +0000 UTC","comment":"Prof. Shen is really helpful, he always answers your questions with detailed explanation. The exam is easy, which is similar to the practice exam. Grading is also really fair.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2674823","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:36:28.705711+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTIzNTkzMDc2","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1912162","instructor_name":"Howard Becker","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2014-09-14 17:40:59 +0000 UTC","comment":"awful handwriting. lectures are exactly following the textbook which means if u can learn well by uself from the book, u probably can get a good grade. Exams are a little bit hard due to combining the knowledge of previous maths","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1912162","quality_rating":2.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:36:28.705711+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTIzNDc0MzI3","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1912162","instructor_name":"Howard Becker","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2014-07-26 13:00:55 +0000 UTC","comment":"His handwriting is not organized at all and barely readable. lectures follow the textbook written bu UW Madison Math Department tightly, but exams are extremely hard. You will need plenty of extra help to learn the course materials. Most examples he used during lectures are from the textbook. That means that lectures are of little help.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1912162","quality_rating":2.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:30:18.009234+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTIwMjc2Mzc3","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2767107","instructor_name":"Joseph Miller","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2012-05-14 12:49:57 +0000 UTC","comment":"I enjoyed his lectures-he explained the basic concepts and was quite enthusiastic. However, I would have enjoyed doing more examples, as the homework was graded and extremely difficult. The exams were difficult, but certainly doable if you put the effort in (which is  a lot, by the way). I can't blame him personally because the material was tough.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2767107","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":5.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:30:18.009234+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTIwMTU2Mzcw","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2767107","instructor_name":"Joseph Miller","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2012-04-30 16:46:40 +0000 UTC","comment":"The hardest professor i have ever taken in Math department. He enjoys in his own life. The homework is pretty hard. And homework will be collected and graded. The examples in class and textbook is not that helpful.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2767107","quality_rating":2.0,"difficulty_rating":5.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:17:03.573912+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTMxMTA3ODI2","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2407195","instructor_name":"Mihaela Ifrim","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2018-12-20 00:36:03 +0000 UTC","comment":"Professor Ifrim is hard and will challenge you by making you think about theory as well as the applications of a concept but she is one of the few professors in the UW Madison Math department that cares about actually teaching.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2407195","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:17:02.153037+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTQxMjI5MzM0","source_instructor_id":"rmp:620540","instructor_name":"Mikhail Feldman","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2025-05-09 19:44:04 +0000 UTC","comment":"He's like the AI voice assistant on PDFs - literally reads straight from the textbook, only in a Russian accent. He's quite uninspiring and did not make this class enjoyable whatsoever. The class isn't too hard though tbh","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/620540","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:17:02.037647+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTQxNDA4MzE2","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2680569","instructor_name":"Mikhail Ivanov","course_label":"math431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2025-06-06 07:36:29 +0000 UTC","comment":"Excellent Professor! You can attend office hours and ask direct questions about concepts. The professor is very patient and funny. He may poke fun here and there, but his teaching style, notes and guidelines are very clear. Just make sure to ask him to clarify something if you feel confused. ","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2680569","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":2.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:17:02.037647+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTQxMjIwNDYx","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2680569","instructor_name":"Mikhail Ivanov","course_label":"math431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2025-05-09 01:24:43 +0000 UTC","comment":"He is a good lecturer and explains concepts well, and I never had to read that much. The course is very well organized, and the difficulty would be pretty average. Exams are marked pretty harshly, but it's still easy to get a good grade in this class unless you're taking 5 other classes...","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2680569","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:17:02.037647+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTQxMDY4OTc3","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2680569","instructor_name":"Mikhail Ivanov","course_label":"math431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2025-04-28 15:28:45 +0000 UTC","comment":"Not a bad professor. He lectures right along with the textbook so if you are confused you can always go there. I also appreciate the insane amount of practice problems we were given. However, he's just a mean guy. I tried to talk twice in class and he made fun of me. Very mean and unapproachable for questions in OH and before class. ","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2680569","quality_rating":3.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:17:02.037647+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTQwNzA2MzI2","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2680569","instructor_name":"Mikhail Ivanov","course_label":"math431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2025-02-25 16:31:10 +0000 UTC","comment":"Ivanov would have a rating above 4.5 on this website if it wasn't for his accent. He is funny, uploads lecture notes, is extremely well organized on canvas, goes through material at a good pace, and even has a list of extra challenge problems each week if you want more practice. \n\nSide note: Math 431 is meh","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2680569","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":2.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:17:02.037647+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTQwNjM1MDc0","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2680569","instructor_name":"Mikhail Ivanov","course_label":"math431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2025-02-03 22:18:43 +0000 UTC","comment":"Good professor teaching a horrible class. Professor was funny and lectures were in-depth, but exams were very challenging. ","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2680569","quality_rating":4.0,"difficulty_rating":5.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:11:50.876788+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTI4MTM0ODk1","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1703786","instructor_name":"Philip Wood","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2017-04-26 18:01:49 +0000 UTC","comment":"Best Professor I've met in math department ever. Professor Wood explained everything very well and made the complicated stuff easy to understand. Highly recommended.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1703786","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:11:50.876788+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTIwMjg3Njkx","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1703786","instructor_name":"Philip Wood","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2012-05-15 17:32:32 +0000 UTC","comment":"Homework every week was very difficult and it was nearly impossible to finish in a reasonable amount of time, 5+ hours for an acceptable grade. The exams are do-able but simply because the homework is significantly more difficult. Overall, if you take this class, you must put the time required in just to pass.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1703786","quality_rating":3.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:11:50.876788+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTIwMjUyNjYy","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1703786","instructor_name":"Philip Wood","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2012-05-10 16:58:34 +0000 UTC","comment":"He taught word-for-word out of the book's explanation, which was all right.  However, the book problems were nigh impossible and he didn't really teach any helpful material outside of saying the book's words verbatim.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1703786","quality_rating":2.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:07:33.913921+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTI1ODUzNTA1","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1671306","instructor_name":"Samuel Stechmann","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2015-12-31 11:12:34 +0000 UTC","comment":"He is good at lecturing however, when I go to office hours he has troubles doing homework problems. He would take a very long time trying to do them and sometimes would not even dot he problem right. He is not specific on grading especially with final grades as he takes down the website so that you can not see where your grade is at or the average.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1671306","quality_rating":3.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:07:33.913921+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTI1ODQ2MTY0","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1671306","instructor_name":"Samuel Stechmann","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2015-12-29 20:40:15 +0000 UTC","comment":"Very good lecturer. He works  hard to ensure that all concepts are explained clearly and connected to other aspects of the course. He is, however, a very difficult grader.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1671306","quality_rating":4.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:07:33.913921+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTI1NTU0NDA5","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1671306","instructor_name":"Samuel Stechmann","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2015-12-05 00:39:32 +0000 UTC","comment":"His lectures are pretty engaging and he does a good job of explaining concepts. He also sprinkles in his unique sense of humor, which is great. He is extremely helpful in office hours and does an amazing job of guiding you towards the answer and making sure you completely understand the problem. ","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1671306","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":2.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:06:53.092030+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTQxOTQyMTk4","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2953115","instructor_name":"Sarah Tammen","course_label":"math431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2025-11-24 18:32:44 +0000 UTC","comment":"Sarrah is a great, very intelligent mathematician. She, however, is not a great lecturer. She cares deeply about her students and the content she teaches, but she does not deliver good lectures. I recommend her if you care about her research (she has a great cv), but otherwise not a great teacher. Some other ratings are too harsh.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2953115","quality_rating":3.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:06:05.646704+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM5NzQ3NjAx","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2531248","instructor_name":"Shaoming Guo","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2024-09-17 17:09:38 +0000 UTC","comment":"Took this course in the Fall 2019. Easily got 100 for all exams. It's true that the professor wasn't fully devoted to the course, but I don't understand why so many people complain about the difficulty.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2531248","quality_rating":4.0,"difficulty_rating":1.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:06:05.646704+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM4ODY0MDU1","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2531248","instructor_name":"Shaoming Guo","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2024-01-10 21:20:09 +0000 UTC","comment":"Poor explainer, not enthusiatic about teaching.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2531248","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:06:05.646704+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM3ODg2NTk1","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2531248","instructor_name":"Shaoming Guo","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2023-05-10 18:16:20 +0000 UTC","comment":"Please save yourself. He just wants to wrap up the lecture and go home early. After the lectures everyone stood outside the door super confused and struggling to discuss the concepts.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2531248","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":5.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:06:05.646704+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTMyNzMxOTUz","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2531248","instructor_name":"Shaoming Guo","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2019-12-20 20:15:38 +0000 UTC","comment":"I got 10 points above average on the midterm and 10 points above average on my final and I GOT a B!!!! This is just ridiculous! He told us 35 percent will get A and 10 percent will get B but it seems like this is not true. BTW all my homework received full grade.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2531248","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":5.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:06:05.646704+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTMyNzMxNDUx","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2531248","instructor_name":"Shaoming Guo","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2019-12-20 19:27:28 +0000 UTC","comment":"Professor Guo really know his stuff. His lectures are fast but really helpful. The proofs he provided are easy to understand than the ones from textbook. The grading criteria are clear, and he is DEFINITELY a easy grader. He gives out a lot out partial credits if you get the whole question wrong but ideas correctly.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2531248","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:06:05.646704+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTMyNjg5ODkz","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2531248","instructor_name":"Shaoming Guo","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2019-12-17 13:16:16 +0000 UTC","comment":"Definitely the worst. Feels like he's trying hard to make students screw up their exams","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2531248","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:06:05.646704+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTMyNjYzNDk2","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2531248","instructor_name":"Shaoming Guo","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2019-12-15 03:32:30 +0000 UTC","comment":"Just don't take this course with him. Please! Save yourself!","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2531248","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":5.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:06:05.646704+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTMyMzQ2NTY5","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2531248","instructor_name":"Shaoming Guo","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2019-11-01 19:49:40 +0000 UTC","comment":"This is my 4th math course in college, and Prof Guo is by far the worst prof I have had. His lectures consist of him facing the board and writing/speaking as fast as humanly possible, while never checking if the class is following. His assigned homework also does not follow what is expected to be learned of the course. Avoid this prof at all costs.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2531248","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:05:34.119603+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTE4MjM3ODY3","source_instructor_id":"rmp:262518","instructor_name":"Sigurd Angenent","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2011-02-15 22:31:17 +0000 UTC","comment":"Best math professor i have met so far. It's easy to get A for his class.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/262518","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":1.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:04:44.099891+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTE2NjA5Njk1","source_instructor_id":"rmp:167023","instructor_name":"Stephen Wainger","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2009-12-20 15:05:48 +0000 UTC","comment":"Awful teacher. He really wants his students to learn the material, but he simply can't teach...at all. He routinely makes mistakes without correcting them, never explains anything conceptually, calls students out for looking at their notebook and writing instead of watching the board. Messed up grading both my midterms by over a whole grade (final?","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/167023","quality_rating":2.0,"difficulty_rating":2.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:04:44.099891+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTE2NTg3NjQ5","source_instructor_id":"rmp:167023","instructor_name":"Stephen Wainger","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2009-12-17 18:55:08 +0000 UTC","comment":"Was long winded, repeated himself 16 times while writing the same things on the board. Went to office hours once, he told me because I needed help that I should drop the class, no partial credit on tests and you can't tell where the points are given or taken off. Avoid at all costs.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/167023","quality_rating":2.0,"difficulty_rating":5.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:04:44.099891+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTg0MDYxMQ==","source_instructor_id":"rmp:167023","instructor_name":"Stephen Wainger","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2003-04-16 01:38:29 +0000 UTC","comment":"He Sucks","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/167023","quality_rating":2.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:01:48.471263+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTI3OTQ0MDU0","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1006782","instructor_name":"Timo Seppalainen","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2017-03-24 16:07:07 +0000 UTC","comment":"Timo is amazing! Sometimes, when struggling with a problem, I would email him, and his only comment would be something like \"Think back to how we did it in class\". This problem, which I'd tried to solve for hours by the time I sent the email, would become trivial. He's just that good of a teacher. The textbook is also one of the best I've used.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1006782","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:01:48.471263+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTI3ODI5NTU5","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1006782","instructor_name":"Timo Seppalainen","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2017-02-14 22:43:53 +0000 UTC","comment":"While the material can be difficult, Timo is an excellent professor! Neat, clear, fair, and just overall very helpful. Definitely recommend.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1006782","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:01:48.471263+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTI0ODEwODU2","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1006782","instructor_name":"Timo Seppalainen","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2015-05-12 18:40:28 +0000 UTC","comment":"Timo was (and still is) the best math professor I've had at UW-Madison.  The course material is incredibly difficult, but Timo truly acknowledges this fact and will adjust your grade accordingly.  He is MORE than fair!!!  He speaks very clearly, has incredibly neat handwriting, and he is truly open to any questions (dumb or not).","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1006782","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:01:48.471263+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTI0MTU2NzI0","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1006782","instructor_name":"Timo Seppalainen","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2014-12-20 17:59:23 +0000 UTC","comment":"Tough course but Timo does a great job teaching. Uses solid examples and lecture notes are VERY well written. Really wants you to think for yourself so he can almost be viewed as \"unhelpful\" during office hours because he will only lead you in a direction. Fair grader too.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1006782","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:01:48.471263+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTIzNzcxNzM0","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1006782","instructor_name":"Timo Seppalainen","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2014-11-08 22:40:54 +0000 UTC","comment":"Timo ranks towards the very top of all professors that I've ever had. To put it simply, he is an amazing teacher. He makes no assumptions about your prior knowledge and never fails to give crystal clear explanations. Also, he teaches in a way that doesn't insult your intelligence, which is a rarity in upper level classes. Timo for president.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1006782","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:01:48.471263+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTIzMDMwNzEy","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1006782","instructor_name":"Timo Seppalainen","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2014-04-13 14:44:34 +0000 UTC","comment":"Extremely helpful! He organized the material in a very neat and clear way! Exam and grading are quite fair. Best math professor I met!","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1006782","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:01:48.471263+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTIxMTkxNTM0","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1006782","instructor_name":"Timo Seppalainen","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2013-01-01 08:58:00 +0000 UTC","comment":"431 is a difficult course especially if you have never done any math beyond 300 level math. However, Timo is a great teacher. He cares about how his students do and is willing to answer any questions they have. If you have considering taking this course, make sure to take it with Timo.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1006782","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:01:48.471263+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTIxMTY3NjA1","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1006782","instructor_name":"Timo Seppalainen","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2012-12-26 00:50:05 +0000 UTC","comment":"Best math professor in the department. Uses enlightening examples to strengthen his crystal clear explanations.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1006782","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:01:48.471263+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTIxMTAyMzMz","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1006782","instructor_name":"Timo Seppalainen","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2012-12-17 17:46:44 +0000 UTC","comment":"Best Math professor for sure. He cares students. Really helpful.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1006782","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:01:48.471263+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTIxMDQ1MjIx","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1006782","instructor_name":"Timo Seppalainen","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2012-12-12 20:37:51 +0000 UTC","comment":"Awesomeness personified! Every moment spent in his lectures is worth it.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1006782","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:01:48.471263+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTIwODU2MzAz","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1006782","instructor_name":"Timo Seppalainen","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2012-11-17 22:26:12 +0000 UTC","comment":"Timo is an excellent teacher. He is extremely fair with testing and grading. However this isn't to say that tests are easy. If this is your first venture into 400-level math, be ready to study, and study HARD. However, Timo will absolutely be with you every step of the way!","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1006782","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":5.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:01:48.471263+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTIwNzc3MjM2","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1006782","instructor_name":"Timo Seppalainen","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2012-11-05 00:47:42 +0000 UTC","comment":"Seppalainen is the man, the true, the best math professor I've ever taken.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1006782","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 16:01:48.471263+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTE4NjM5MjQ2","source_instructor_id":"rmp:1006782","instructor_name":"Timo Seppalainen","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2011-05-20 07:40:41 +0000 UTC","comment":"Amazing. just amazing.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/1006782","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 15:58:40.071829+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTMxNDM2OTUz","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2279195","instructor_name":"Xiaoqin Guo","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2019-03-14 17:06:42 +0000 UTC","comment":"He's really a nice guy. He wants the class to get good grades. 431 with Guo is no harder than any calc class here. Would definitely recommend him. He prepared me for math 632 very well. He follows the textbook closely, which is really nice because you can use it to help clarify everything that is discussed in class.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2279195","quality_rating":4.0,"difficulty_rating":3.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 15:56:09.365368+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTQxNzMwOTU3","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2923961","instructor_name":"Zaidan Wu","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2025-10-19 06:46:41 +0000 UTC","comment":"The lecture was very clear.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2923961","quality_rating":5.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 15:56:09.365368+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM5NjM4MjYw","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2923961","instructor_name":"Zaidan Wu","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2024-07-23 16:18:33 +0000 UTC","comment":"I literally feel like I am being read a textbook. There is no clear organization and 90% of the lecture is conceptual notes that barely relate to any assignments. I don't even know where to look in the textbook to find help because  we jump back and forth and never label any notes as from particular sections.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2923961","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":4.0},{"observed_at":"2026-09-07 15:56:09.365368+00:00","run_id":"20260907T155543-ce3781c4","source_review_id":"UmF0aW5nLTM4MTU5MDA2","source_instructor_id":"rmp:2923961","instructor_name":"Zaidan Wu","course_label":"MATH431","course_id":"MATH/STAT 431","course_uid":"course_dcdb624e3fb8cbaf9a557ab9","review_date":"2023-08-11 03:21:23 +0000 UTC","comment":"Zaidan is a horrific lecturer.  He reads directly from his notes, occasionally stopping for a poorly-explained proof or example.  Zaidan completely failed to keep my interest--I found the textbook to be far more interesting.  Furthermore, provided practice exams were nothing like the actual tests, which most of the class did exceedingly poor on.","source_url":"https://www.ratemyprofessors.com/professor/2923961","quality_rating":1.0,"difficulty_rating":5.0}]