The best aspects of this course included the instructor’s wil ingness to help and the instructor’s precise presentation of the subject matter. Also, the textbook was very relevant and useful to the class. One student felt that too many derivations and financial applications were skipped. One suggestion included moving at a slightly quicker pace. Another suggestion was for the instructor to help students apply stochastic processes to other financial courses. Prospective students should know this course focuses a great deal on theory.

The best aspects of this course were the high intellectual chal enge, the engaging lectures, and the applicability of the information in mathematical finance careers. Professor Capponi was approachable and wil ing to answer students’ questions. The worst aspect of this course was the disconnect between the lecture material, the homework, and the exam. Students found it difficult to prepare for the exam based on what was taught in class and through the homework. Suggestions for improving the course included a longer class time, homework more closely aligned with the exam, and more practical examples in class. Prospective students should know that this is a difficult and challenging course. A solid knowledge of Stochastic I is essential.

The best aspects of the course were the interesting course material and helpful TA’s. Students felt that the professor’s teaching style was difficult to follow and that lectures were disorganized. Exams and homework were difficult for many students and assignments were time consuming. Suggestions for improvement included having more straightforward exams, a more clearly organized syllabus, practice exams, and less emphasis on theory in favor of more application and practice problems. Prospective students should have a firm background in calculus and probability. Prospective students wil find the textbook very helpful and should allocate time to study and collaborate with classmates outside of class.