The best aspects of the course included the notes and the helpful professor. The worst aspect of the course was the chal enging homework assignments. Also, the students felt that the homework expectations were not clearly presented to them from the start of the semester. The course would improve if there were more organized lessons and more examples on the material. Prospective students should anticipate lots of studying and practicing because the problem sets are somewhat chal enging.

The best aspect of this course was the lectures which were insightful and included interesting anecdotes and careful mathematical development. Students also thought that the oral final exam was a nice bonus and a great way to practice for the qualifying exam. In addition, the homework assignments were difficult yet relevant and helped solidify course concepts. The worst aspects were the low TA involvement, the homework’s confusing questions, and the class being taught verbatim from the notes. Suggestions for improvement include: a practice oral exam, an involved TA, consistent homework grading, and prepared PowerPoints. Prospective students should have a strong understanding of thermodynamics.

The best aspects of the course included the exposure to a broad array of materials, and the professor’s succinct but clear and thorough explanations. Students remarked that the professor provided ample and well organized class notes, practice problems, and solutions. Many students agreed that the fast pace of lectures was hard to keep up with, and that basing the final grade only off of two exams was anxiety inducing. Students suggested including graded homework assignments to lighten the weight of exams, and providing more opportunities for feedback. Prospective students should be self-motivated and prepared to complete homework assignments even if they are not graded.