3.7

Fanny Shum

Mathematics - New York University

3.7
Quality
3.9
Difficulty
64%
Would Retake
123
Reviews
3.7
Quality
3.9
Difficulty
3.7
Helpful
3.7
Clarity

64%

Would Retake

123

Reviews

Rating Distribution
Official

5

53

4

26

3

13

2

14

1

17

What Students Say

She was so unclear in lectures

MATHUA121 - 2.0 rating

Just not a very good professor

MATHUA1 - 2.0 rating
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

53%

Textbook Required

0%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

A-

95% confidence
Based on 65 grades
Most common grades:
A (31)
Not sure yet (21)
A- (12)
Grade Distribution
A(32)B(8)C(5)D(0)F(0)A-/B+(20)
Based on 91 reported grades
A: 31
Not sure yet: 21
A-: 12
B+: 8
Common Tags
Lots of homework (43)
Tough grader (29)
Clear grading criteria (27)
Accessible outside class (23)
Test heavy (23)
Participation matters (19)
Caring (18)
Amazing lectures (16)
Rating Trend

Declining

-0.72 avg change
Feb
Apr
May
Oct
Nov
Dec
Last 6 months
Ratings by Course

MATH140

5.0

(1)

UA122

5.0

(1)

ECONUA201

5.0

(1)

MATH212

5.0

(4)

ECONUA212

5.0

(1)
+21 more courses
Difficulty by Course

MATHUA1

5.0

UA121

5.0

MFE2

4.8

CALC101

4.5

MATHUA120

4.5

Reviews (123)
1.0
5.0
MATHUA121
Sep 23, 2017
Wouldn't take again

She does not teach. You're supposed to learn the material through videos she assigns. Excessive homework. Powerpoints are inaccurate and unhelpful. Expects you to have a lot of prior knowledge.

LOTS OF HOMEWORK
5.0
2.0
MATH140
Oct 25, 2017
Would take again

I like her lecture. She explained everything clearly.

LOTS OF HOMEWORK
ACCESSIBLE OUTSIDE CLASS
Clear grading criteria
5.0
3.0
MATHUA122
Grade: A-
Nov 3, 2017
Would take again

The best math professor/instructor I've had, she is very articulate and cares about students' learning. She's also very friendly and easy-going. HW is tough and tests are fair (averages were around 78).

Gives good feedback
Skip class? You won't pass.
LOTS OF HOMEWORK
3.0
4.0
MATHUA121
Nov 5, 2017
Would take again

She does a very good job of going over the course material in the time allotted, however she goes so fast! Also, her graders, at least to me, seem very harsh. However, I did learn a lot and her midterm wasn't that bad

Tough Grader
LOTS OF HOMEWORK
LECTURE HEAVY
5.0
5.0
MATH122
Grade: A
Nov 13, 2017
Would take again

Very good teacher, but you need to go to class. Homework is significant and very tough but she is willing to help walk you through it in office hours. Took her for Calc 2 and 3

Tough Grader
Skip class? You won't pass.
ACCESSIBLE OUTSIDE CLASS
5.0
2.0
MATH122
Grade: A
Nov 14, 2017
Would take again

Very nice prof. Take her for calc 2 and 3, if possible hope to take her for future courses.

2.0
5.0
MATHUA1
Grade: Not sure yet
Nov 29, 2017
Wouldn't take again

Just not a very good professor. Knows the concepts but just explains it in the most complicated ways. Test is nearly impossible to finish on time.

LOTS OF HOMEWORK
TEST HEAVY
LECTURE HEAVY
2.0
5.0
MATHUA121
Grade: Not sure yet
Dec 4, 2017
Wouldn't take again

She was so unclear in lectures. Tests are very hard and barely any help that you can get. Dont even get me started on the recitation class. Powerpoints were unclear and she also goes really fast. Take another calc 1 teacher thats better and is willing to help!

Tough Grader
LOTS OF HOMEWORK
Tests are tough
3.0
4.0
MATHUA121
Grade: B-
Dec 11, 2017
Wouldn't take again

Fanny is more than willing to help you outside of class. She doesn't explain very well and assumes that everyone has prior knowledge. She dives into harder concepts quicker. Online lessons are simple but homework is hard. Tests are hard because she doesn't give you enough time. Even if you took Calc before, she is going to make you work for your A.

Skip class? You won't pass.
LOTS OF HOMEWORK
ACCESSIBLE OUTSIDE CLASS
1.0
5.0
CALC101
Dec 11, 2017
Wouldn't take again

she is NICE is but a VERY BADprof she doesnt know what shes doing she goes way toooo fast and is just overall bad. she should never teach this class ever again. if you end up with her leave LEAVE u will get an F even if u try she just doesnt know what she is doing. she tries but idk whats wrong but something is definitely wrong. dont take her..

Tough Grader
Skip class? You won't pass.
LOTS OF HOMEWORK
1.0
5.0
UA121
Dec 13, 2017
Wouldn't take again

If you're looking to ruin your GPA Fanny is the perfect professor! This class was the worst I had ever taken and I have nightmares thinking back to her homework assignments. Avoid her at all costs. She offers help outside of class, but still makes no sense.

LOTS OF HOMEWORK
TEST HEAVY
Tests are tough
5.0
4.0
UA122
Grade: A-
Jan 30, 2018
Would take again

Fanny is a decent professor but you really have to put into the effort outside the class. Her lectures are often filled with a lot of class so take your time to digest everything after class with other online resources. She is super approachable during office hours and it is super helpful. Finally, she models her test based on her homework.

Gives good feedback
Participation matters
ACCESSIBLE OUTSIDE CLASS
5.0
3.0
MATH211
Apr 13, 2018
Would take again

Love her! Her posted slides are extremely helpful. She takes you through the process. Provides enough extra practice if you are interested in practicing more than just homework. TAs are amazing! Exams are not that easy though. Overall, I would definitely recommend her.

5.0
4.0
MFE1
May 1, 2018
Would take again

Her homework is beyond difficult. Her exams are much easier than the homework. She is funny and kind and compassionate. Moves quickly, but I believe it's the course not just her method of teaching. A lot of material to cover!

Skip class? You won't pass.
ACCESSIBLE OUTSIDE CLASS
Clear grading criteria
5.0
3.0
MATHUA140
Grade: A
Jun 11, 2018
Would take again

Fanny Shum is the best math teacher I have ever had. She made Linear Algebra very doable and even pretty interesting! Homeworks every week took a few hours and Tests were doable, with averages in the high 80s. Theres a quiz every day. Her lecture notes are very explicit and she is great at explaining things and answering questions.

Skip class? You won't pass.
Amazing lectures
Caring
2.0
3.0
MATH211
Grade: A-
Nov 29, 2018
Wouldn't take again

If you want to leave office hours more perplexed than you have ever been before throughout the many years you have lived on Earth's surface, by all means take this class. However, in a very strange situation if you actually want to understand concepts by visiting her office hours this is a class I do not recommend

LOTS OF HOMEWORK
TEST HEAVY
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
5.0
3.0
MFE1
Dec 16, 2018
Would take again

Great teacher. Logic is clear and explains well. Solve anyone's question in the course or during the office hour. Very approachable and helpful.

Respected
Inspirational
ACCESSIBLE OUTSIDE CLASS
4.0
3.0
MATHUA211
Grade: A
Dec 29, 2018
Would take again

She is a good lecturer and instructor, she is very clear in her explanations and expectations. Almost everyone does well in her class. (If you wish for a slower paced Prof, I would not recommend her.) The assignments and tests are doable. Would recommend.

Clear grading criteria
5.0
5.0
MATH120
Grade: A
Jan 5, 2019
Would take again

It's a hard course but you will learn a lot, especially if you have never done proofs before. Homeworks and quizzes are difficult. Exams are by no means easy but reasonable. She definitely pushes you to learn.

5.0
3.0
MATH211
Grade: A
Feb 5, 2019
Would take again

She is really well-organized and always willing to answer questions. You can challenge her during classes, and she will solve your problem in a polite way. The only negative comment I can make is that there were plenty of Webassign homework but I think it is prevalent for this series of courses.

Participation matters
LOTS OF HOMEWORK
Amazing lectures
5.0
3.0
MFE1
Grade: A-
Feb 5, 2019
Would take again

Fanny is probably one of the best Math professors there is. While the course is hard, she does a really good job in covering the material. I never studied Calc before this but she made it very easy. She is open to answer any questions and is very organised in her lectures and explanation. Take her class if you have the option!

Skip class? You won't pass.
LOTS OF HOMEWORK
Amazing lectures
5.0
3.0
MATH211
Grade: A
Feb 7, 2019
Would take again

Great math Professor. Very clear and organized lecture. All the lecture slides, homework and quizzes with solutions are available online, which makes it easy to review for exam. Homework is sometimes a bit hard, but is very beneficial and help a lot with the exam. Very responsible professor who makes you learn and help you success.

Inspirational
ACCESSIBLE OUTSIDE CLASS
Amazing lectures
5.0
2.0
MATHUA211
Grade: A
Feb 27, 2019
Would take again

Fanny is definitely the best professor for math classes. She has well-developed slides and clear grading criteria. She knows how to teach and have a clear method to solve problems.

Gives good feedback
Accessible outside class
Clear grading criteria
3.0
3.0
MATHUA211
Grade: A
Mar 29, 2019
Wouldn't take again

Not terrible but not my favorite. The thing that annoyed me most was that she had clickers but would get mad at people who were goofing off (attending just for the clickers). This class is the easiest parts of calc 1 and multivar, so there were a fair few students who didn't need to attend much, so clickers were pretty frustrating.

Tough grader
5.0
3.0
MATHUA140
May 9, 2019
Would take again

Fanny is the best Math Professor I have had. She is a really great professor and is super knowledgeable. Never before have I had a professor so enthusiastic about math, and it really helps make the class more engaging. She is super caring, and makes herself extremely available for help before exams.

Clear grading criteria
Amazing lectures
Caring
1.0
3.0
UA140
Grade: A-
May 22, 2019
Wouldn't take again

So-so in terms of teaching skills. Yet, too many more quizzes and much harder exams compared to other sessions taught by other professors. Take her course to get an Easy B, or take the other professors to get Easy A.

Test heavy
Tough grader
2.0
5.0
MATHUA120
May 24, 2019
Wouldn't take again

Her office hours are helpful if you dont understand her speedy lectures. The only issue is that her hws and exams are extremely hard compared to what she actually teaches in lectures and quizzes on. Ive studied by going over lecture slides/quizzes, going to office hours, and reading the textbook but that wasnt enough to actually pass the exams.

Gives good feedback
Accessible outside class
Test heavy
4.0
5.0
MATH120
Sep 9, 2019
Wouldn't take again

Very organized, but difficult

4.0
4.0
MATHUA213
Jan 2, 2020
Would take again

Math is math so lectures are kind of dry, pretty standard. But class is really organized w a lot of extra practices to help understand the material better- weekly Webassign online homework, quizzes, worksheets on each topic, homework every couple of weeks. Super accessible for help (there's a class Campuswire) and her office door is always open

Gives good feedback
Accessible outside class
Caring
5.0
5.0
MATHUA211
Grade: Rather not say
Jan 22, 2020
Would take again

Honestly. She is soooooo good at explaining and teaching. However, the homework's and the lectures are a level 3/10 difficulty and the exams are a 15/10 difficulty. They will be like nothing you have ever seen EVEER in lectures or in homework's. They are incredibly difficult and even if you do all the homework and attend lectures-not enough.

Lecture heavy
Tough grader
5.0
3.0
ECONUA201
Apr 22, 2020
Would take again

Best MFE 1 Teacher! Makes class easy by offering a lot of resources to make you succeed. Just practice a lot!

Gives good feedback
Lots of homework
Lecture heavy
5.0
4.0
MATHUA211
Grade: B-
Apr 23, 2020
Would take again

Super caring, good lecturer, really cares bout your understanding. Hard class but Fanny is the best prof to teach it.

Gives good feedback
Accessible outside class
Caring
4.0
4.0
MATHUA211
Grade: B+
Apr 27, 2020
Would take again

I had her for MFE 1 and I was complacent because I had already taken Calc and got a B+ when I could have probably gotten an A if I had taken it seriously. Not her fault, my fault. She's a solid professor but there is a lot of homework and the exams are no joke. She didn't curve anything. Go to class and study. Don't count on curve.

Lots of homework
Skip class? You won't pass.
Test heavy
5.0
4.0
MATHUA122
Grade: A
Apr 28, 2020
Would take again

Professor Shum is the best professor I've had at NYU so far. She teaches very well, conveying material clearly and precisely. Her notes are a great resource to study. She is very smart and knows the material thoroughly, never stumped by any question. You can tell she puts in her best for the class, and is always very helpful during office hours.

Accessible outside class
Amazing lectures
4.0
4.0
MFE1
May 25, 2020
Would take again

As someone already said, math is math. If you don't love it it'll be dry no matter the professor. That said though, Prof. Shum is quite incredible. She clearly cares about her students doing well. Her teaching style makes the material easy to digest. But you'll have to work hard if you want an A on the midterm/final. I'm taking her again next sem!

Clear grading criteria
Amazing lectures
4.0
4.0
MFE1
Grade: A
May 27, 2020
Would take again

Definitely take her. She's clear on everything, from her lecture notes to her answers to questions. Makes you work for an A, but definitely doable if you attend every class, work hard in class, and revise often&before exams.

Clear grading criteria
Amazing lectures
5.0
4.0
MATHUA122
Grade: A
May 31, 2020
Would take again

One of the best professors. Clear explanations, cares about students, great with technology, and fair grading criteria. You will have to work for a good grade, but that's to be expected. She is a lenient and fair grader. Grade is distributed amongst short weekly quizzes, weekly Webassign HW, one longer weekly written HW, 2 midterms, and a final.

Accessible outside class
Clear grading criteria
Amazing lectures
1.0
4.0
MATH122
Sep 8, 2020
Wouldn't take again

Refuses to give students the benefit of the doubt in any situation. Extremely condescending and ruthless. Makes fun of you if you don't participate correctly in class and is honestly the worst professor I have had at NYU. STEER CLEAR and take another professor for Calc 2.

Lots of homework
5.0
4.0
MATH212
Sep 8, 2020
Would take again

Probably the best professor for MFE2. Took this course during the summer and it was a great experience. Prof. Shum really explains each concept clearly. I'm not good at math and the summer session is intensive, but she makes me feel comfortable to ask questions during the class. She's willing to help students truly improve.

1.0
5.0
MATHUA212
Grade: B
Sep 9, 2020
Wouldn't take again

Definitely the hardest class! She assigns too much homework and the lectures are not really helpful. Quizzes and tests are so much harder than the materials in class and the workload is just too much!

Lots of homework
Test heavy
Tough grader
2.0
5.0
MFE2
Sep 9, 2020
Wouldn't take again

One of the hardest classes Ive ever taken. Concepts are covered rather briefly and midterms + exams are much harder than expected. Office hours arent bad, just be aware of how difficult exams are and that they make up the bulk of your grade.

Lots of homework
Graded by few things
Test heavy
2.0
5.0
MATHUA212
Grade: Not sure yet
Sep 9, 2020
Would take again

So many homework.

Lots of homework
Graded by few things
Tough grader
3.0
5.0
MFE2
Sep 15, 2020
Wouldn't take again

Very hard class be prepared to study A LOT to get a decent grade. Lectures are ok but most of the learning you do is outside of lecture bc material in lecture is covered briefly. Be ready for tough midterms and finals that make up majority of your grade !! She does give a lot of study material which is nice buuuut workload is sooo much for mfe

Participation matters
Graded by few things
Test heavy
5.0
3.0
MATHUA213
Grade: Not sure yet
Sep 26, 2020
Would take again

One of the best Math professors at NYU. Homework and tests are not easy, while the lecture is very clear. So if you really want to learn Math, take her class.

Lots of homework
Amazing lectures
5.0
3.0
MATHUA213
Nov 3, 2020
Would take again

A literal masterclass in how to lecture a math course. The work may seem to be too much sometimes, but all the practise really does pay off. Take her!

Test heavy
Clear grading criteria
Amazing lectures
4.0
3.0
MATHUA213
Grade: Not sure yet
Nov 24, 2020
Would take again

Workload tends to be average as far as math classes go, specifically the MFE sequence. Tests are graded out of 34 points, so each MCQ was worth 6%, kinda sucked. Still teaches very thoroughly and gives good practice examples to acquaint you with the content taught, a very nice person.

Clear grading criteria
1.0
5.0
MATHUA212
Nov 28, 2020
Wouldn't take again

Absolutely worst professor ever, run as far as you can from her class. Amount of workload is insane considering how stressed everyone is, seems to be even more work than if it were an in-person class. Doesn't care about students at all.

Lots of homework
Participation matters
Skip class? You won't pass.
5.0
3.0
ECONUA212
Grade: Not sure yet
Dec 6, 2020
Would take again

Lots of homework and quizzes, but she is a fair grader and grades are very negotiable.

4.0
4.0
MATHUA212
Dec 8, 2020
Would take again

She's a very good teacher- all her explanations are very clear and to the point. She also includes a lot of background material around certain topics so you really understand where it's coming from. However, the amount of work you have to do is crazy. Don't fall behind on the homeworks/material and you'll be fine

Lots of homework
Participation matters
Clear grading criteria
4.0
4.0
MFE3
Grade: Not sure yet
Dec 9, 2020
Would take again

She is a kind person and a good teacher. However, the workload is EXCESSIVE and burdensome. Ive never taken a class with 4 exams, 13 quizzes, 16 webassigns, 8 written homeworks (theyre hard!!) and mandatory forum participation. If you dont mind a lot of work, youll like her because again, she is good and kind. But there is just too much work.

Lots of homework
Accessible outside class
Clear grading criteria
5.0
3.0
MATHUA212
Grade: A-
Dec 9, 2020
Would take again

Prof. Shum gives clear explanations to the concepts and gives good and understandable examples to help students. I love her so much!! Although the homework is heavy, but the grade is decent and you will receive good results if you get prepared! Take her class!

Gives good feedback
Lots of homework
Inspirational
5.0
4.0
MATH212
Grade: Not sure yet
Dec 14, 2020
Would take again

Prof. Shum's lectures are very clear and straightforward, the workload is definitely more than some other classes, but I would say it's a fair amount given that it's an MFE class. If you ask questions, she'll answer immediately and with great details. Participation does matter tho, and make sure to watch the prelectures; those really help a lot

Lots of homework
Participation matters
Clear grading criteria
5.0
4.0
MATH212
Grade: Not sure yet
Dec 14, 2020
Would take again

Prof. Shum's lectures are clear and straightforward. If you ask questions, she'll answer immediately and with great details. The workload is definitely more than some other classes, but I think it's a fair amount given that it's an MFE class. Participation does matter tho, and make sure you watch the prelectures bc those can help you a lot

Lots of homework
Participation matters
Clear grading criteria
1.0
5.0
MATHUA212
Dec 19, 2020
Wouldn't take again

Quite literally the WORST professor Ive ever had at NYU. She is the most callous, rude human being I have ever meet. Professor Shum doesnt have any regard for what you might be personally undergoing in the midst of a global pandemic. This class is difficult to begin with her as a professor but being remote has made her class exponentially worse.

Lots of homework
Skip class? You won't pass.
Test heavy
1.0
5.0
MFE2
Dec 21, 2020
Wouldn't take again

bruh. probably the worst math class I have ever taken. so much work, and the material is so hard! weekly quizzes, problem sets, online textbook homework, prelecture videos, and 3 midterms (not one, not two but 3!!!), made the class VERY overwhelming. I felt like I wasnt learning just struggling to keep up with everything she assigned.

Participation matters
Skip class? You won't pass.
Test heavy
5.0
2.0
MATH213
Grade: A
Dec 24, 2020
Would take again

Prof. Shum is excellent. She delivers the course very clearly, gives many examples, and explains the theorems thoroughly. 3 midterms. Overall it's quite easy get get an A. Take her!

Test heavy
Amazing lectures
5.0
4.0
MATH213
Grade: A
Dec 24, 2020
Wouldn't take again

Prof Shum makes every concept clear and delivers course materials thoroughly. However, a lot of efforts had to be put in to get a good grade. Take her if you want to learn deep. I personally just find her exams very stressful. But she is good teacher and very nice for sure

Respected
Lots of homework
Participation matters
5.0
4.0
MATH213
Grade: A-
Dec 25, 2020
Wouldn't take again

I personally prefer self-study most of the time but I went to every of her class this semester because she explains everything clearer than the textbook. Also, she holds extra office hours to prepare us for the exams. Emails sent to her are replied quickly. Take her class if you really want to learn, otherwise it'd be real tough.

Accessible outside class
Skip class? You won't pass.
Amazing lectures
5.0
4.0
MFE2
Feb 23, 2021
Would take again

The material for MFE2 is quite dense and can be difficult at times but Fanny managed to explain everything extremely clearly every lecture. It is a bit homework heavy but in my opinion that helped me prepare for the exam as questions were similar to what we'd done in class and at home. TAKE HER SHE'S A GEM.

Lots of homework
Accessible outside class
Clear grading criteria
5.0
3.0
MATHUA211
Grade: A
Mar 9, 2021
Would take again

I took her MFE1 and MFE2. Very organized person. Many concepts in lecture but she makes complicated stuff easy to understand. Graded by many things, but they're easy and clear: 3 midterms, 1 final, weekly quizzes, WebAssign, problem sets, PreLectures, & participation; fewer things if in-person. Only puts things she taught on tests so it's doable.

Participation matters
Clear grading criteria
Amazing lectures
2.0
5.0
MFE2
Grade: C+
May 12, 2021
Wouldn't take again

Very difficult

Test heavy
Lots of homework
Tough grader
3.0
4.0
MATHUA212
Grade: Not sure yet
May 14, 2021
Wouldn't take again

Mixed opinions. Grading's more lax than Chikhany. She's understanding of different situations. There's a lot of work due Wed-Sun. Barely touched on econ topics. Exams are too intense; that's why I wouldn't take again. Overall, I think she's a good helpful professor, but exams could be less hard. Very approachable. 3.5 rating, dk if I'd take again.

4.0
5.0
MATHUA212
May 18, 2021
Would take again

Prof. Shum is a solid choice; she explains concepts very well and genuinely cares for students to perform well. The written hw's are complicated and time-consuming, but still manageable. Exams are a main problem especially MC questions, (roughly 8 MCQs are 40% of that exam grade)-- hence missing few, can mess up your grade big time.

Accessible outside class
Test heavy
Amazing lectures
5.0
2.0
UA212
Grade: A
May 18, 2021
Would take again

One of the best CAS math professors out of the few competent ones. Very Clear grading and questions for HW, Quiz, and Exams. If you make it out of the waitlist, you're super lucky.

Gives good feedback
Lots of homework
Clear grading criteria
4.0
2.0
MATHUA212
Grade: A
May 22, 2021
Would take again

Prof. Shum is very knowledgeable and wants her students to do well. For MFE 2: midterm exams are easy and 30% of your grade (8 MC and 2-3 FR). Homeworks (15% of grade) are not very hard as long as you pay attention in class. GO TO RECITATION bc there are weekly quizzes. Prof is also very accessible via email/campuswire/office hours. Easy A for me.

Respected
Caring
4.0
3.0
MATHUA123
Grade: A
May 24, 2021
Would take again

Prof. Shum is good at explaining difficult concepts. Problem sets can be long and challenging, but they are good practice. Tests are not too hard, as the questions are similar to those you have seen before.

Lots of homework
Participation matters
Lecture heavy
4.0
4.0
MF2E
Grade: A
Jun 6, 2021
Would take again

Pretty understanding with COVID, defining a tough class overall but do the hw, have friends in the class and youll be okay

4.0
4.0
MATHUA122
Jun 26, 2021
Would take again

She is one of the most organized professors in the department. She is very to the point yet caring. You just need to communicate with her, and she will give you the most helpful/practical advice. I did take her during summer, so everything was faster, but she really tried hard so that all students are on the same page.

Lots of homework
Lecture heavy
Caring
1.0
4.0
MATHUA212
Dec 12, 2021
Wouldn't take again

subpar professor

Lots of homework
Participation matters
Lecture heavy
5.0
4.0
MATHUA120
Grade: A
Dec 21, 2021
Would take again

The most well organized math lecture youll take. Her lectures are seriously amazing. Shes tough on grading but fair and she scales and it actually makes you learn

Clear grading criteria
Amazing lectures
1.0
5.0
MATH122
Grade: Not sure yet
Apr 27, 2022

Why is there no option for a 0? Super heavy workload. Tests very difficult. Prelecture is an hour but she sometimes lectures for only 40 minutes or so and the pace and speed is very fast. If you have other options please make sure you don't choose her, run!

Tough grader
Test heavy
3.0
4.0
MATH122
Grade: Not sure yet
May 1, 2022

Mid professor, very organized lectures and notes

Tough grader
Lecture heavy
Test heavy
5.0
2.0
MATH212
Grade: A
May 6, 2022
Would take again

She gives explanation in a clear way and her lectures are well-organized. Homework & tests are really easy and straightforward. Review class notes and hws / recis before tests and you'll be fine. The grading is reasonable. Prelecs are pretty useful for those who prefer independent study. Probably I'll never have such a relaxing math class.

Gives good feedback
Caring
Accessible outside class
3.0
4.0
MATHUA212
May 7, 2022

Very GOOD professor!! Many MANY homeworks, but I guess they are from the department. WebAssign, Prelecture Quiz, HW, and in-class quiz. I hate every moment of studying for Cal2, but exams are acc acceptably easy and I got pretty decent scores. Professor is always so perfect in all these notes and recordings, but THINK TWICE AND BUY CHEGG

5.0
2.0
MATHUA122
May 12, 2022
Would take again

Had her for MFE 2. Easy class, with simple weekly quizzes, weekly homeworks that arent too demanding, and 3 pretty easy exams. Prof is nice, helpful, and organized. Cool, chill class.

5.0
3.0
MATHUA122
Grade: A
Jul 24, 2022
Would take again

She is an AMAZING professor! I really loved her style of teaching. Considering it is calc 2, she explains topics pretty clearly and you do a lot of practice to memorize each unit. She is also very understanding and caring. Definitely recommend her!

Clear grading criteria
Gives good feedback
Caring
1.0
5.0
MATH120
Grade: Not sure yet
Oct 28, 2022

I have never disliked a professor, teacher, or person more than Shum. Her homework takes upwards of 8 hours, there is an absurd amount of quizzes, hw, prelecture questions, etc. Midterm was very hard, questions on it we never did in class or hw. She is condescending. Makes a difficult class that much more unbearable, terrible terrible prof.

Tough grader
Participation matters
Lots of homework
2.0
3.0
MATH120
Grade: Not sure yet
Dec 8, 2022

She's a nice lady overall. Good at answering questions and lectures. However, she made an easy course extremely hard. Toooo much homework to do and useless. Prefecture quizzes, quizzes, polished proofs, Giant problem sets, and exams. Bad grading criterion.

Tough grader
Participation matters
5.0
5.0
MATH120
Grade: Rather not say
Dec 13, 2022
Would take again

Love Fanny, she is really helpful and a great professor. Be prepared for a lot of hws and tests, and exams are hard. But she is eager to help. Also, be sure to engage in he classes. Overall, would definitely take another class with her.

Tough grader
Lots of homework
Caring
3.0
5.0
MATHUA121
Grade: Not sure yet
Dec 19, 2022

Expect upwards of 10 hours of work a week for this course (homework/prelecture/studying to do in general). Though clearly passionate, Prof spends less time on topics as content gets harder. I wouldn't retake it because concepts weren't made more accessible and left me spending excessive time making sense of them rather than understanding them.

Get ready to read
Lots of homework
So many papers
2.0
5.0
MATH120
Grade: Not sure yet
Dec 21, 2022

spends lots of time on easier concepts and less time on harder ones; not great at explaining. she can be a bit condescending when you ask for help. each problem set takes at minimum 8 hours, on top of the readings and quizzes. tests are hard, be prepared for a lot of work to keep up.

Lots of homework
5.0
3.0
MATHUA121
Grade: A
Dec 22, 2022
Would take again

Took Shum for Calc I: Amazing and straightforward lecturer, open to answering questions at any point during class. Clear grading criteria that's available on the syllabus from day 1. Very test heavy class (70% of grade is midterms/final), you know exactly how many homework/quiz grades are dropped, a decent curve at the end of the course.

Clear grading criteria
Lots of homework
2.0
5.0
MATHUA121
Grade: C
Dec 31, 2022

The professor is not very interactive with the students during lectures because of the large number of people. She also talks very fast and it feels like she assumes everyone already knows the content. There are 3 question quizzes every week, and getting one question wrong significantly affects your score. There is lots of homework and studying.

Tough grader
Lots of homework
Test heavy
1.0
5.0
MATH120
Grade: Not sure yet
Mar 8, 2023

It is a VERY difficult course. The content taught in class is easy, but the exams are EXTREMELY HARD! DONT take her if u have other choices. Otherwise, you may need to spend more than 10 hours per week and may get a bad grade. I am so regretful that I chose her. DONT CHOOSE HER CLASS, PLEASE!!!

Tough grader
Lecture heavy
Test heavy
4.0
4.0
MATH120
Apr 19, 2023
Would take again

All the tests, assignments, etc. are the same for all discrete classes so pick based on teaching style. It is assumed you read the textbook chapters before class so if you don't, the material might be difficult. She has good slides, goes through all the material, uploads everything, records lectures, and was helpful/nice during office hours.

4.0
3.0
MATH122
Grade: B+
Apr 26, 2023
Would take again

Fanny is pretty good. She structures the class so you watch prelectures before the actual lecture. This makes the class more casual and is super helpful. Her tests are't bad and homework isn't bad either. MFE 2 is interesting and she's the best prof for this course!

Lecture heavy
5.0
1.0
MATH120
Grade: B+
May 16, 2023
Would take again

best prof ever! easy A and fun class to follow

Clear grading criteria
Gives good feedback
Inspirational
5.0
1.0
MATH120
Grade: B+
May 16, 2023
Would take again

best prof! I recommend you take her for discrete math. jeoldae deudji ma. first sihum? anggan. but final exam? *sibal* ppom micchodai. geundae sun numnen bubun is: gyosu malhaesso. curve yes. but? today na seongjeok baddasseo. huh? curve upseosso. jjogatteun suob.

Clear grading criteria
Inspirational
Caring
4.0
4.0
MATH120
Grade: B-
May 17, 2023
Would take again

The problem sets and polished proofs are very difficult at first but I feel like Shum did a great job at communicating the material. I struggled throughout but I managed to land a B- in the end. This class def helps you understand the reasoning behind math a lot better.

Tough grader
Lots of homework
2.0
5.0
MATH120
Jun 16, 2023

Tough, not the nicest person out there. Okay teacher overall, basically rips from the textbook word for word. Goes through the motions, doesn't really have a passion for teaching, usually wants to just get it over with. Psets are difficult, not a lenient grader in the slightest. Examples in class are much simpler than those in assignments. 3/10.

Tough grader
Get ready to read
Participation matters
1.0
5.0
MATH120
Grade: B
Dec 24, 2023

Do not take this class if you have other options. She simply does not teach and has no leniency and does not care about the students.

Tough grader
Test heavy
Graded by few things
1.0
5.0
MATH120
Grade: Rather not say
Apr 19, 2024

Freaking ridiculous, deducting grades if you did not CITE the theorem you are using in the assignment. Very very HARSH GRADER.

Tough grader
Lots of homework
5.0
3.0
MATH120
Grade: Incomplete
May 9, 2024
Would take again

She uses ed discussion in which you could solve 90% of problems on that platform. There's even extra office hours for the exams. However, our final exam is insane as you know all the concepts but can still fail a free respons question if you made a mistake at the beginning. Exam is time stressed even 60% questions like sample exams.

Participation matters
Gives good feedback
Accessible outside class
5.0
3.0
MATH122
Grade: A
May 11, 2024
Would take again

Had Prof. Shum for both Calc 1 and 2, would definitely recommend taking her class. Good lecturer, very accessible and helpful in office hours. Fair curve at the end of the semester, really takes into account how much effort you're putting in so being engaged and showing up to office hours is beneficial. Enjoyed Calc 2 more than I expected.

Participation matters
Gives good feedback
Caring
5.0
3.0
MATH122
Grade: A-
May 19, 2024
Would take again

Her worksheets, review sheets and pre-lecture videos are very helpful and clear. Also, the tests are important but not hard. Take her class if you want to learn solidly.

Clear grading criteria
Caring
Accessible outside class
5.0
4.0
MATH120
Grade: A
Jun 5, 2024
Would take again

The grading is strict, but obviously because she really cares about her students. The tests are a bit hard, but she has a reasonable curve. You can really learn a lot by following her.

Tough grader
Caring
Accessible outside class
1.0
5.0
MATH122
Grade: Not sure yet
Nov 1, 2024

Pretty sure she grades for Calc 2 homework. The most passive-aggressive person I've ever interacted with, the harshest harder I've ever met. Don't even bother requesting regrades because she will take points off the entire thing just to spite you, despite initially crediting you those points she took off. Refuses to give any partial credit.

Tough grader
2.0
5.0
CALC101
Grade: B+
Nov 8, 2024

Professor Shum is approachable and smiles always, but she is really strict in grading, always lose many points from working process even if we are very careful. Her homework is definitely the heaviest one among four courses I selected: we hand in 6 different homework each week. And you can never expect how challenging is her midterm and final!

Tough grader
Lots of homework
Test heavy
4.0
5.0
MATH122
Nov 23, 2024
Would take again

Professor Shum is a professor that teaches well and is accessible during offie hours. However, there's a lot of workload per week with pre lecture videos and quizzes, weekly quizzes, written homework, and online homework from webassign. Her tests are pretty hard, especially the multiple choice questions. She's willing to offer help if you seek it.

Lots of homework
Respected
Accessible outside class
5.0
4.0
MATHUA122
Grade: A-
Dec 18, 2024
Would take again

The class is organized well. There is a lot of work to do, but it really helps with understanding the topic. Make sure to go to her classes and office hours because she does take that into account. I had a B and ended up with an A-.

Participation matters
Amazing lectures
Lots of homework
5.0
4.0
MATHUA122
Grade: A-
Dec 18, 2024
Would take again

The class is organized really well, with pre-lecture videos before the lectures to get a better understanding. There is a lot of homework to do, but it really helps. Make sure to go to all her classes and participate as well as going to her office hours, because she does take that into account. I had a B and ended with an A-.

Participation matters
Amazing lectures
Lots of homework
4.0
4.0
MATH122
Grade: A-
Dec 19, 2024
Would take again

One of the best professors I've had - gives you every resource you need to succeed (recorded lectures, pre-lectures, practice exams, etc.) Offers office hours at least twice a week! Lots of work (pre-lecture, weekly quiz, written hw, and webassign), but I've taken classes with her twice now and taking again in the spring. Curved 4-5% at least.

Tough grader
Accessible outside class
1.0
5.0
CALC101
Grade: Not sure yet
Dec 19, 2024

While she is a lovely person, she is also extremely difficult to learn from. Unlike other calc 1 classes, she gives a quiz every week, even if that quiz is a day after a midterm. We also varied in the pace of our lessons wildly. We started off very slowly compared to others, but by the end it definitely felt like we were rushing.

Tough grader
Test heavy
5.0
3.0
MATH122
Grade: A
Dec 22, 2024
Would take again

Great Professor! She is caring, and her lectures are useful and comprehensive. However, we need to watch recorded pre-lectures and complete pre-lecture quizzes. In return, we can learn new material more effectively and end the lecture one hour earlier. Her curve is great. If you want to have a great learning experience, choose her!

Amazing lectures
Lots of homework
Accessible outside class
2.0
5.0
MATHUA121
Grade: Not sure yet
Dec 23, 2024

If you like your life, don't take this professor. Her quizzes and tests are 10 times harder than what she goes over in lectures. She's pretty fair with the grading scheme though I will give her that

Tough grader
Lots of homework
Test heavy
3.0
3.0
MATHUA121
Grade: C+
Dec 24, 2024
Would take again

She was the most tolerable calc teacher out of them all. The quizzes & exams are 10 times harder than what she actually teaches. I used the lecture time to watch organic chem tutor videos and then review her lecture slides cause he explains it much better.The final exam was complete nonsense so make sure you are on top of HW, Quizzes and midterms.

Lecture heavy
Test heavy
3.0
4.0
MATH122
Grade: B-
Dec 26, 2024

she's a pretty engaging lecturer but exams are difficult and the questions are unpredictable. there's so much hw (5 assignments/week) that take so long to complete and the tests are weighed so much more than the assignments themselves so it's hard to do well in the class. she gives a pretty good curve tho like a 5% increase.

Lots of homework
Test heavy
4.0
4.0
MATH122
Grade: A
Jan 6, 2025
Would take again

Gives a ton of homework but it prepares you well and forces you to understand the material. Lectures are good and she is happy to answer questions in office hours. Good curve at the end of the semester. Organized and is good about staying on track with all the curriculum. Do all the work and it will help you a ton for the exams.

Lots of homework
Test heavy
5.0
3.0
MATH122
Grade: A
Feb 4, 2025
Would take again

An experienced professor who teaches lectures very clearly and is super nice. Enough time for Q&A after each class. The exams are moderately difficult but fine. She determines your final grade based on your overall performance rather than just one exam and tries to give you the best grade possible.

Amazing lectures
Inspirational
Accessible outside class
3.0
4.0
MATH122
Grade: Rather not say
Feb 14, 2025

A lot of prelecture work that may get overwhelming. Prelecture videos are around 1 hour long, comparative to the actual lecture. Homework is pretty straightforward, two prelecture quizzes, two webassigns, and one/two post lecture quizzes. Three tests that counts for around 65% of your grade. Her lectures are recorded. Take detailed notes.

Tough grader
Lots of homework
Caring
4.0
4.0
MATH120
Grade: B+
Feb 18, 2025
Would take again

Prof Shum's class is challenging, but worth the effort. Her grading is strict, but the material is engaging. I found unstuckstudy and the free textbook helpful for study prep. Overall, a rewarding experience.

4.0
4.0
MATH122
Grade: B
Apr 9, 2025
Would take again

she's a great teacher and provides so much organized material to help u succeed in calc 2. requires a lot from u on a weekly basis, but is kinda generous in how many quizzes, hws, etc. she will drop. not an easy teacher, but a very fair, very good one. not super flexible, but understanding. u will always know what to expect

5.0
3.0
CALC101
Grade: B+
Apr 20, 2025
Would take again

She gives you everything you need to succeed, there is no reason to compain. She is the most available teacher I've had at nyu, always answering questions and has long office hours that probably boosted my grade a whole letter. Exams are very fair and she explains clearly. You actually have to work in this class though.

Caring
Accessible outside class
Online Savvy
3.0
5.0
MATH122
Grade: Not sure yet
May 1, 2025

You'll have homework 5 days a week in Calc2. Be prepared to devote a lot of time to this class so dont take anything else challenging. Many people fail the finals. knew someone who got arounf 32 on one of them. shes willing to raise ur grade if u improve so if you fail something hope is not lost, but the tests are CHALLENGING.

Tough grader
Clear grading criteria
Accessible outside class
4.0
4.0
MATHUA122
Grade: B
May 16, 2025
Would take again

Good professor, but be wary of the heavy workload. She gives 6 assignments a week so you will almost always be busy with this class. Tests are not curved individually, but there is a generous shift of ~5% on final grade if you improve over time and show up (lectures, office hours.) Overall a great professor, but you have to stay on top of work.

Lots of homework
Caring
Accessible outside class
4.0
4.0
MATH122
Grade: A+
May 26, 2025
Would take again

She gives lots of work but as long as you stay on top everything will be fine. Complete web assigns directly after the lecture. This is easier because she lets everyone leave early after finishing the lecture. Study before each quiz, and try to maximize that grade. For the final, focus on previous topics just as much as the new topics.

Tough grader
Lots of homework
Lecture heavy
2.0
4.0
MATHUA123
Grade: C-
Oct 29, 2025

The exams were much harder than the homework, quizzes, and examples in class. She does not explain the material thoroughly. The TAs won't help you much as they forgot most of the subject.

Tough grader
Lots of homework
5.0
3.0
MATH122
Grade: A
Nov 19, 2025
Would take again

Prof. Shum is a great professor. She's always available after class for questions and she explains concepts very clearly. People say that she's a tough grader but I haven't really seen that. Every calc 2 class gets the same amt. of homework, and they're very effective for testing your understanding. Exams are similar to HW. 10/10 recommend!!! :D

Clear grading criteria
Caring
Lecture heavy
4.0
4.0
MATHUA123
Grade: A-
Dec 22, 2025
Would take again

Tough exams but good at explaining. Very accessible at Office Hours. She gives good curve based on individual improvement.

Clear grading criteria
Lots of homework
Accessible outside class
5.0
5.0
MATHUA123
Grade: B+
Dec 23, 2025
Would take again

Good curve. Good lecture. Good office hour. I am bad at math.

Tough grader
Amazing lectures
Respected
5.0
4.0
MATHUA140
Grade: A
Dec 24, 2025
Would take again

Very structured lectures which was really nice although she does tend to move faster compared to the other professors. Still it is not a problem though and I enjoyed her style of teaching. Textbook says is required but didn't need to read it as the lectures were better for understanding content. Curve at the end based on individual performance.

Amazing lectures
Clear grading criteria
Gives good feedback
4.0
3.0
MATHUA140
Grade: A
Dec 25, 2025
Would take again

Pretty good, though it felt like she slightly rushed the last half of the semester, which is where all the hard topics are. Overall, I would take her class again.

Caring
Online Savvy
3.0
4.0
MATHUA123
Grade: C+
Dec 26, 2025

Fine professor and accessible at office hours if you don't understand concepts. She assigns a lot of work to ensure you achieve mastery of the concepts, so ensure that you are capable of dedicating a sizeable chunk of time to her courses.

Tough grader
Lots of homework
Accessible outside class
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

53%

Textbook Required

0%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

A-

95% confidence
Based on 65 grades
Most common grades:
A (31)
Not sure yet (21)
A- (12)
Grade Distribution
A(32)B(8)C(5)D(0)F(0)A-/B+(20)
Based on 91 reported grades
A: 31
Not sure yet: 21
A-: 12
B+: 8
Common Tags
Lots of homework (43)
Tough grader (29)
Clear grading criteria (27)
Accessible outside class (23)
Test heavy (23)
Participation matters (19)
Caring (18)
Amazing lectures (16)
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MATH140

5.0

(1)

UA122

5.0

(1)

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5.0

(1)

MATH212

5.0

(4)

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5.0

(1)
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Difficulty by Course

MATHUA1

5.0

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5.0

MFE2

4.8

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4.5

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4.5

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