The best aspects of this course included the instructor’s approachability and firm grasp of the content, as well as the applicability of the material to the “real world.” One student felt it was too theory-based. Another student felt the homework grades were not indicative of one’s overal grade and could therefore develop a false sense of security. Suggestions included providing lecture notes and assigning the projects earlier in the semester. Prospective students should attend al lectures and let the instructor know if they do not understand a concept.

This course is highlighted by a passionate and engaging instructor who provided thorough notes and gave the impression that he genuinely wanted students to succeed. The material presented was interesting and had real world applicability. The worst aspect of the course was the heavy reliance on memorization of proofs, leaving many students able to complete the work without really having an understanding of the material. Some suggestions for improving the course were to make the exams less 13 reliant on proofs, and more practice questions with examples to prepare for exams. Prospective students should know that the information from Optimization I is not used much, memorization of the proofs is important, and this instructor is highly recommended.

The best aspects of the course included the professor’s engaging, clear, and thorough lectures coupled with his enthusiasm for the subject matter and eagerness to help students learn. Students emphasized the importance of attending class and taking careful and copious notes, but lament the fact that tests seemed to emphasize strictly memorizing notes and proofs rather than applying learned concepts. Further, many students claimed that proofs are central to the coursework, and that they would have preferred a more application-based approach. Prospective students should be prepared to attend lectures and to spend some time learning MATLAB independently.