The best aspects of this course included the interesting lab experiments and the opportunities available for students to operate spectrometers. Many students felt that there needed to be a structured grading system to which al the TAs should adhere. Also, some students found the textbook unhelpful and useless. Suggestions included standardizing the grading system and ensuring pre-experiment that al of the lab equipment is functional. Prospective students should be prepared to budget their time and keep in mind that the workload includes but is not limited to a large amount of lab reports.

In this course the highlights included wel planned and interesting lab experiments, helpful TAs, and a reasonable number of lab reports. The most commonly cited negative aspect of this course was slow or no feedback on lab reports, leaving some students to wonder how to improve. More clarity in the expectations for lab reports and a faster turn-around time on graded work were suggested as improvements to the course. Prospective students should know that lab reports can take a significant amount of time, but Lab II was better overall than Lab I.

The best part of this course was that it taught different lab techniques. Students found the labs to be interesting, and appreciated the opportunity to apply physical chemistry principles. Some students found the lab reports to be difficult and time consuming. Further, students would have appreciated more background and explanations before labs. Suggestions for improvement included having functional lab equipment, and providing more transparency and feedback for lab grades. Prospective students should be prepared to start assignments early, and to work closely with TA’s and other students in order to successful y complete assignments.