3.0

Greg Smersh

Finance & Real Estate - University of South Florida

3.0
Quality
3.6
Difficulty
62%
Would Retake
114
Reviews
3.0
Quality
3.6
Difficulty
3.0
Helpful
3.0
Clarity

62%

Would Retake

114

Reviews

Rating Distribution
Official

5

33

4

16

3

17

2

16

1

32

What Students Say

You have to buy the procopy and teach yourself everything

FIN4303 - 1.0 rating

Prepare to be your own professor

FIN3403 - 1.0 rating
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

25%

Textbook Required

20%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

B+

95% confidence
Based on 75 grades
Most common grades:
A (14)
A+ (14)
A- (9)
Grade Distribution
A(28)B(14)C(16)D(2)F(0)A-/B+(17)
Based on 88 reported grades
A: 14
A+: 14
A-: 9
B: 8
Common Tags
EXTRA CREDIT (35)
Test heavy (33)
Clear grading criteria (24)
Lots of homework (14)
Get ready to read (13)
Tough grader (13)
LOTS OF HOMEWORK (10)
TEST HEAVY (9)
Rating Trend

Declining

-0.27 avg change
Nov
Jan
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May
Aug
Dec
Last 6 months
Ratings by Course

REE3103

5.0

(1)

FIN3401

5.0

(1)

FIN3402

4.0

(1)

FIN3404

3.3

(3)

REE3043

3.2

(22)
+7 more courses
Difficulty by Course

REE0000

5.0

FIN4504

4.3

FIN4303

4.3

REE3403

4.0

FIN3403

3.6

Reviews (114)
2.0
5.0
FIN4504
May 3, 2010

Do not plan to pass the test based on class lecture. Read the book and do the homework.

2.0
5.0
FIN4504
May 3, 2010

Do not plan to pass the test based on class lecture. Read the book and do the homework.

5.0
4.0
REE3043
May 4, 2010

Nice professor. 3 tests but his tests are made up of some multiple choice and some written. First test was really easy but the other two tests were really hard. He does curve his grades. He has two case studies that helped boost the grades as well as a 5% attendance grade. Study the book and definitely go over the homework problems.

5.0
2.0
REE3043
Dec 28, 2010

Good Real Estate Decisions class. He knows what hes talking about, and if you like the subject you'll enjoy the lectures. Since its a finance elective, he stresses the finance aspect of it with mostly quantiative questions. Pro-copy book, 3 tests-optional final. Mandatory attendance. Work through and memorize the homework handouts.

4.0
3.0
REE3043
Mar 31, 2011

His tests are mostly problems. So make sure you focus on the review problems he gives you more than the qualitative part and you will do fine. His tests are not easy and can be a little confusing. Last test is completely different than first two. Very nice professor and willing to help. Test are multiple choice. must show your work or you no credit

1.0
4.0
REE3403
Nov 22, 2011

I personally did not like him or the class he taught. The way he words things are really confusing, attendance is mandatory, and the slides are sometimes way different than the book. I'm probably looking at a C in this class. Test were hard for me whether I studied a little or a lot, half of the test I could not understand. Do not take him!!!

5.0
3.0
REE3043
Jan 12, 2012

Don't know what some of the others are talking about as this is one of the best professors that I've had at USF. He is very helpful and really cares about his students. If you keep up and do the work you will do fine.

3.0
3.0
REES0000
Mar 20, 2012

Class isnt bad, the tests can be difficult. He said just do the reviews and it will be like the test but its not. you learn one way to do it and when it comes to test its backwards. He deff picks his favorite students for internships and presentations outside of class. I had to drop and I will sign up again in the summer. HW is a cake.

2.0
5.0
REE0000
Mar 21, 2012

This is not an easy elective. Even though you are given a study guide the tests are not the same. I suggest skipping this class unless you have a real interest in it. The prof comes unprepared and reads of the slides like he hasn't seen them in a while. Plus the book has hardly any example problems.

5.0
2.0
REE3043
Mar 25, 2012

His tests are based off the reading, his reviews he gives out, and the HW. This class is not difficult, you just have study what he covered. Dr. Smersh is very helpful and wants his students to do well.

1.0
5.0
REE3043
May 5, 2012

Do yourself a favor and stay away from this professor and class. Hes never prepared to teach, and when he shows you how to do a problem he just explains it without showing you by steps like most professors. when it comes to the test he tricks you on the problems because hes only showed you one way to do it and he gives you another on the exam.

5.0
2.0
REE3103
May 6, 2012

Dr. Smersh is very helpful. You just have to go to his office hours and ask him questions about what you are not sure on. The people below me saying negative things are your typical students who don't study. This class is not hard, the test are based off the HW and the reviews. It is not tricky! he shows you short cuts too! Pretty easy class.

1.0
5.0
REE3043
May 6, 2012

I wouldnt consider taking this class. Half of my class had to drop by the drop date due to failing. I ended up getting an A in the class and it was not easy getting. Very stressful and he never really helped. office hours were limited and he just sat on his lap top while you spoke and didnt help. I would never take him again!

1.0
5.0
REE3043
May 6, 2012

I was really disappointed after this semester witht his class. I really didnt learn as much as I wanted to in here. He comes off a little harsh at times and made a comment one class as how did you guys pass principles of finance you should know this stuff. the class is based off HW and tests and HW dont count for much. I will never take him again

1.0
5.0
REE3043
May 7, 2012

I advise do not take this course unless you want to be stressed out the entire semester. the hw is easy but when it coems to the test, its like he never showed you the problems because hes worked it a different way. He never shows you how to do stuff, he explains it and he expects you to be a wiz in finance. I suggest not taking him.

1.0
5.0
REE3043
May 7, 2012

Ya,I wouldnt take him. he means well but he can come off as a arrogant. he'll help you out if you go to his office but when he explains it, its hard to understand. he needs to stick with his master program and someone else needs to teach this class

1.0
5.0
REE3034
May 9, 2012

I wouldnt recommend this class, was stressed out the entire semester because of his tests. the hw was really easy. but let me tell you, when it comes to his tests everything looks twisted and on top of it he hardly gives any time for you to finish because he puts a 20 math questions and you have to show ur work or you dont get any points. GOOD LUCK

2.0
4.0
REE3043
May 11, 2012

If you take this guy make A's on the exams and homework. If so you will be invited to presentations which are networking events, and he usually gave out couple extra credit points to us if we showed up. It was only for the A students. I got an A but it was a hard class, dont learn much of anything besides him recruiting students for his master clas

1.0
5.0
REE3043
Oct 24, 2012

Ok, all these people saying that the class is easy...are right! I'm a finance major and i don't believe the material is hard. But we're rating the professor, and so I'll tell you, Dr. Smersh is HORRIBLE!!! Arrogant useless prick! Beasley at least has clear lectures, this guy however has nothing, just don't take his class. Honestly, you'll be better

5.0
4.0
REE3043
Grade: B-
Jul 20, 2016
Would take again

Keep up with the weekly online module and don't get behind. Pay attention to the review on what the exam will include before proceeding. Prof. Smersh does want you to do well so don't hesitate to ask.

3.0
4.0
FIN3403
Grade: B-
Dec 3, 2016
Would take again

For Intro to Finance, the class is based mostly off tests and weekly assignments- there was no midterm or final. The tests are VERY hard and all math based. Getting an A on a test is not easy. However, the assignments/homework/reflections are not bad. With the right effort, a C or B should be easily attained. Don't take if you will not put in time.

2.0
5.0
FIN3403
Grade: C-
May 5, 2017
Wouldn't take again

Has a lot of TA's class is hard but does curve up to 3 points at end.

Tough Grader
LOTS OF HOMEWORK
TEST HEAVY
2.0
4.0
FIN3403
Grade: B
May 11, 2017
Wouldn't take again

The only advice Prof Smersh gives is to 'study the homework and the practice problems'. Only about 60% of the problems on the test match what was on the homework/practice problems. Further, the practice problems are identical to the homework. If you don't care much about your grade and/or have time to teach yourself, he isn't bad. Gave a curve.

Tough Grader
LOTS OF HOMEWORK
TEST HEAVY
5.0
4.0
FIN3403
Grade: A
Jun 6, 2017
Would take again

Dr. Smersh is very helpful and wants students to do well. He has gone to great lengths to provide you with everything necessary to pass this class, such as unlimited attempts at homework and review podcasts. However, this is a high-enrollment online course, so you will mostly communicate with a TA. Put in the work, and you will get an A.

Respected
Clear grading criteria
Caring
5.0
3.0
REE3043
Grade: A-
Jun 20, 2017
Would take again

Dr. Smersh is a great professor and puts out the expectations of the class. I took his real estate course after taking finance with him and I dont regret it one bit. Taking the course in the summer is simple with a vocab quiz and a chapter test each week. You dont need a book but you need the stud guide which he lets you use on the test.

TEST HEAVY
3.0
4.0
FIN3403
Grade: B+
Jun 25, 2017
Would take again

I took Principles of Finance during the summer (10 weeks) online, and definitely felt stressed throughout the entire course. Homework and assignments were easy but most of your grade came from 5 tests (65% of your grade). You can use his Pro Copy formula sheet during the test and write any additional notes. You have to work for it!

LOTS OF HOMEWORK
TEST HEAVY
4.0
3.0
FIN3403
Grade: B
Nov 29, 2017
Would take again

Professor Smersh made it very clear what was going to be on the exam but taking it online through canvas there is no partial credit on the exams. The class is one of the most time intensive online classes I have taken but its understandable given the difficulty of the course. Highly recommend the professor.

Clear grading criteria
TEST HEAVY
Tests are tough
4.0
3.0
FIN3403
Grade: A
Jan 16, 2018
Would take again

I took this course online and the reviews scared me. In all honesty, this class was easier than I thought. Yes theres a lot of work involved, but its not crazy hard. If you choose to put in zero effort, then yea, youll fail. The great thing is that he offers a study guide for the tests and its basically the test with different numbers.

LOTS OF HOMEWORK
Clear grading criteria
Would take again
3.0
4.0
FIN3403
Apr 17, 2018
Would take again

Dr. Smersh's online class is full of tough material, but there are tons of resources available to help you succeed if you're willing to work for it. Be prepared to turn in assignments sometimes twice or 3x a week and spend a lot of time working on them. This is a very time consuming class. The TAs are super helpful. Getting an A is very possible.

Respected
Get ready to read
LOTS OF HOMEWORK
3.0
5.0
FIN4504
Grade: B-
May 9, 2018
Would take again

I had to read every chapter carefully and for a business student, the tests were very difficult. My top suggestions are: (1) purchase his guide at pro-copy, (2) WATCH the videos he publishes, and (3) study-study-study. I was able to get a B- in the class but it was difficult for me. I am a A/B student.

Get ready to read
Clear grading criteria
TEST HEAVY
5.0
4.0
FIN3403
Grade: B+
Jun 6, 2018
Would take again

Finance isn't an easy subject, but Smersh has the class set up to where it prepares you for all of the tests so he makes it easy. He also lays out what's going to be on every test so there are no surprises. He also does podcasts for material that's for sure going to be on the test & explains everything thoroughly. Make sure to get the formula book!

LOTS OF HOMEWORK
TEST HEAVY
Amazing lectures
4.0
4.0
FIN3403
Grade: Not sure yet
Jun 9, 2018
Would take again

I took his online class during the summer. Its a hard course, but he gives you all the tools that you need to succeed. As long as you put in the time and effort you will do fine.

Get ready to read
LOTS OF HOMEWORK
EXTRA CREDIT
4.0
3.0
REE3043
Jun 17, 2018
Would take again

Great teacher that has a well structured online course, make sure to buy his study guide book it goes hand in hand with his online lectures

Participation matters
4.0
5.0
FIN3403
Grade: B-
Dec 3, 2018
Would take again

-The course is a challenge. Be ready to commit 10-12 hrs. a week for assignments. - The chapter homework are straight forward. Make sure to review the chapter it really helps - He gives a study guide for each module, is really helpful to review it at least 2 weeks in advance. - gives extra credit when submitting assignments 3days in advance.

Tough Grader
LOTS OF HOMEWORK
Clear grading criteria
1.0
5.0
FIN3403
Grade: B
Dec 3, 2018
Wouldn't take again

This class is just overall horrible! The professor doesn't care about us he tells you in the beginning of the class DO NOT reach out to him that he will not reply, which I find that inconsiderate. Also he gives TONS of work which requires 10hrs a week as if his class is the only class you are taking. TEST are hard you better study or you will fail

Get ready to read
LOTS OF HOMEWORK
TEST HEAVY
4.0
4.0
FIN3403
Grade: A
Dec 18, 2018
Would take again

Dr. Smersh does everything he can to ensure his students pass the class. Definitely get the Pro Copy book with solutions and formulas, you will need it. Take your time with the material and be sure to do the exam reviews. It is tough material, but you will have all the tools you need to succeed.

Gives good feedback
Respected
Clear grading criteria
1.0
3.0
REE3043
Grade: A
Dec 20, 2018
Wouldn't take again

Hybrid. Optional tuesday lectures. He just cant teach, his TA cant teach either. You need to buy his book for quizes and tests. 12 open book tests are okay, you need a 98 to get an A+ which I think is way too high. if you go to class, he starts giving out test questions. He is never prepared for class, brings his dog with him, was not service dog.

Get ready to read
Clear grading criteria
Caring
2.0
4.0
FIN3403
Grade: C
Jan 3, 2019
Would take again

He's overall very specific and there is a lot of work to it. i definitely recommend buying his booklet, it is basically everything in the exam just in different numbers. worry about the booklet more than anything in this class.

LOTS OF HOMEWORK
TEST HEAVY
EXTRA CREDIT
4.0
3.0
FIN3403
Grade: A
Apr 30, 2019
Would take again

Even though Prof. Smersh says to contact TAs for questions but he still answers them on Canvas if needed. Finance is not an easy class so get ready to read and do a lot of work! Extra credits are available for every module homework (take advantage of this)! You will learn a lot if you pay attention!

Lots of homework
Participation matters
EXTRA CREDIT
1.0
5.0
REE3403
Grade: C+
May 10, 2019
Wouldn't take again

This was a really tough class. Expect to put in 10 hours of work into it per week if you can't find another professor. TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THE EXTRA CREDIT, use the booklet, get an A on as many things as you can because the exams are HARD and SUPER specific. May the finance gods have mercy on your soon to be tortured soul.

Lots of homework
Test heavy
Tough grader
1.0
4.0
REE3403
Grade: C+
Jul 22, 2019
Wouldn't take again

Test Reviews are useless and nothing like the actual Test. If you want to pass this class with at least a C, make sure you do every assignment making 100%. The only help you can get is through the TA's and Student Mentors. Get his book so you will have the formulas for the tests. If you can take someone else DO IT!! He makes this class way harder.

Tough grader
5.0
3.0
FIN3401
Grade: A+
Jul 25, 2019
Would take again

Best class I've taken in a while. If you do the homework you will make an A. He tells you in advance what the exam will be like (purely mathematical not conceptual). He offers lots of extra credit if you turn assignments in early.

Gives good feedback
EXTRA CREDIT
5.0
3.0
REE3403
Grade: A+
Sep 16, 2019
Would take again

This class wasn't bad but you have to buy the procopy booklet ($20) because it helps a lot to prepare for the exams. HWs take some time to finish but it prepares you for the exams. I would highly suggest to email the TAs and especially student mentors because they help a lot.

Lots of homework
Clear grading criteria
EXTRA CREDIT
3.0
4.0
FIN3403
Grade: A
Oct 29, 2019
Would take again

It's hard to say something about the professor himself since it's an online class and he doesn't respond to emails or holds office hours (you are only to contact the TAs if you have any questions, which I find a little annoying). There are a lot of exams and you have to do the practice questions assigned and study a lot to do well

Lots of homework
Test heavy
Clear grading criteria
3.0
4.0
REE3043
Grade: B+
Nov 16, 2019
Would take again

This class is easier than his Prin. of Finance. However, is still the same setup but fewer assignments. There's 1 quiz, 1 (10 questions) test every week and a small essay question every 2 weeks. His study guide is not straight forward so just review and makes sure you understand the material. you have to buy his pro-copy book.

Get ready to read
Graded by few things
Tough grader
3.0
4.0
FIN3403
Grade: C
Dec 7, 2019
Would take again

A lot of homework, but it prepares you well for the tests. Make sure you get the pro copy if you want to pass. Extra credit if you hand in chapter homework early. States what questions will be on the test, so if you mark your formula sheet, it's easy. Dont wait to ask for help and make sure you get used to Canvas as a lot of test prep is available.

Lots of homework
Test heavy
5.0
4.0
FIN3403
Grade: A+
Dec 9, 2019
Would take again

Took FIN3403 online with Professor Smersh, and it was probably the easiest math class Ive taken. The tests are proctored, but youre allowed cheat sheets. Theres weekly assignments that you get multiple attempts to do, and extra credit for early submission. Before each test he gives you a breakdown of how every question will be with examples.

Lots of homework
Participation matters
EXTRA CREDIT
4.0
4.0
FIN3403
Grade: C-
Dec 13, 2019
Would take again

I felt as though I could have gotten a higher grade, which was on my part. I thought the class was straight-forward. I know I will do better in his future classes! Take the online class!

Test heavy
Clear grading criteria
EXTRA CREDIT
5.0
2.0
FIN3403
Grade: A+
Jan 15, 2020
Would take again

Everything is so straightforward. Do the exam reviews, every question on the review is on the exam, just with different numbers. As long as you know how to use the formula and do all the assignments, you should easily get an A. Offers EC for turning in hw early. Id definitely take him again!

5.0
2.0
REE3034
Grade: A
Apr 22, 2020
Would take again

Dr. Smersh was in the real estate industry so he has great experience. I did the 80% online hybrid class where in class lectures were optional. If you did go to them, however, he'd give a study guide of what was on the test. There are vocab quizzes and module exams every week, both of which are open book, open notes. & a 200 word task every 2 weeks

Respected
Inspirational
Caring
5.0
2.0
FIN3403
Grade: A+
May 9, 2020
Would take again

Everything about this class was amazing: how it's structured, his videos, exam reviews, pro-copy book, EVERYTHING! Exams are purely computation. I learned so much and he was a great professor to take an introductory finance class with. This class has made my other finance courses much easier. Wish every finance course was taught by him!

5.0
3.0
FIN3403
Grade: C
May 21, 2020
Would take again

Awesome professor & love his way of teaching and grading criteria! Take this professor over the others any day !!!

Respected
Participation matters
Clear grading criteria
2.0
3.0
FIN3404
Grade: A
Jul 23, 2020
Wouldn't take again

Don't be fooled by the extra credit! Yea there are tons of opportunities for it and it will help your grade in the end, but get ready to learn on your own! No lectures, just reading finance and math straight from a textbook. The worst is the fact that you'll never interact with him once, according to his TA's he is "too busy" to help anyone, yikes!

2.0
4.0
FIN3403
Grade: A-
Jul 23, 2020
Wouldn't take again

Its mostly learning from the book so good luck :)

Test heavy
2.0
4.0
FIN3403
Grade: C
Jul 23, 2020
Wouldn't take again

Amazing effort ���� for the lack of teaching

1.0
5.0
FIN4504
Grade: Rather not say
Oct 13, 2020
Wouldn't take again

THE WORST PROFESSOR I have ever taken honestly.... He has in his syllabus that he has too many classes and too many students, so if you've got an issue do not contact him but his TA's. Ridiculous grader, he is way too harsh on grading. And also he gives out homework for Finance that for 1 problem, takes 2 hours. Do not take this class with Smersh.

Lots of homework
Test heavy
Tough grader
5.0
3.0
FIN3403
Oct 27, 2020
Would take again

Great class, easy to understand. He provided everything needed to get an A.

EXTRA CREDIT
5.0
3.0
FIN3403
Grade: A-
Nov 21, 2020
Would take again

Idk why most people say that he was a bad professor and such, I thought he was very strauightfoward with the video lectures and the formula book, very cool, 10/10 would take him again

Graded by few things
Clear grading criteria
1.0
5.0
FIN3403
Dec 3, 2020
Wouldn't take again

Worst professor at USF! If he is your only choice to take Finance, take it another semester. He lets Cengage teach for him, the TA's don't care, and the exams are NOT like the homework I don't care what anyone who got an "A" here says. He has tenure and is under a protected blanket where he can get paid to do nothing. Take Professor Wang!!

4.0
3.0
FIN3403
Grade: A-
Apr 6, 2021
Would take again

Not a terrible professor, straight forward. Follow the test guide and you will do well. Gives extra credit for completing homework early. My only problem was that TA's grade and do not give feedback.

1.0
4.0
FIN3403
Grade: C
Apr 25, 2021
Wouldn't take again

This guy is one of the worst professors I've ever had. If you don't have the procopy the class will be extremely hard because the text book gives no formulas even tho you're tested on those formulas. The calculator he tells you that you drastically need doesn't even had the functions you need to do some of the problems. Stay away if possible

Get ready to read
Test heavy
EXTRA CREDIT
1.0
4.0
FIN4303
Grade: C-
May 1, 2021
Wouldn't take again

The homework is similar to the exams, however there is so much content. He does not allow students to email him only contact the TAs. I took it online and there were some walk through videos but they were not always the same on the exam. His own personal lectures would only be like 20 minutes for an entire module. Very minimal help.

Test heavy
Clear grading criteria
Tough grader
3.0
4.0
FIN3403
Grade: A+
May 17, 2021
Would take again

Get the ProCopy!!!! I would recommend Professor Smersh only to students who do well teaching themselves and are self motivated. He has a few lecture videos and isn't very accessible. I'm good at teaching myself from text and sample problems, which made it easier for me. Learn how to use the calculator and find other resources besides his material.

EXTRA CREDIT
4.0
2.0
FIN4504
Grade: A
Nov 29, 2021
Would take again

Buy his Procopy and you'll do fine. All questions are given to you beforehand, just with the numbers changed.

5.0
1.0
FIN3403
Grade: A+
Dec 4, 2021
Would take again

Five modules, each with a test, 3 homework assignments and a 200 word assignment graded for completion. There are so many opportunities for extra credit. Its basically a finance for dummies class. The test preparation tells you exactly what is coming in the order of the exam. Its impossible to fail if you follow through with the module.

Test heavy
EXTRA CREDIT
5.0
3.0
FIN3403
Grade: B
Dec 11, 2021
Would take again

Great class. Will pass with A if you put in normal effort. He offers plenty of extra credit opportunities. All the work is on cengage and basically self taught, but not hard. Clear grading criteria

Respected
Participation matters
EXTRA CREDIT
4.0
3.0
FIN3402
Grade: A
Dec 13, 2021
Would take again

The course is basically self-taught, but there are tons of resources available to make this easy to accomplish. The Pro-Copy is a must buy, it gives formula sheets for each test which basically walks you through the exams if you have a half decent understanding of the content. Lots of EC available if you complete work ahead of due dates.

Get ready to read
Test heavy
EXTRA CREDIT
2.0
4.0
FIN4504
Grade: B+
Dec 14, 2021
Wouldn't take again

Taking this class online is only good for anyone whos able to consistently teach themselves. 5 proctored exams, large homework assignments, it's a time-consuming, difficult class. The pro copy can help with providing formulas and his short videos can help understand some of the problems but don't take this class if you can't teach yourself.

Lots of homework
Test heavy
Caring
1.0
3.0
REE3034
Grade: Not sure yet
Feb 6, 2022
Wouldn't take again

The epitome of a terrible, lazy, and greedy teacher. Huge amount of lectures, textbook readings and supplemental articles, but none of them are tested on. The only way to pass the class with a decent grade is to buy the procopy that he himself writes. Students deserve better. We pay enough for college, we shouldnt be scammed by our educators.

1.0
4.0
FIN3403
Grade: A-
Apr 8, 2022

The only way to learn the material is through the textbook which only covers the very upper surface level of the material. However, the homework, test questions presented in way textbook does not really cover. No PowerPoints, won't respond to emails. Its essentially like taking a class without a professor. I should be paid for teaching myself.

2.0
4.0
FIN3403
Grade: Rather not say
May 1, 2022

You have the opportunity to gain extra credit by submitting homework early. 5 tests have to buy a new calculator if you want to do a couple of them/ Pro guide is needed. His videos don't really explain well, didn't know where he got some of the answers.

EXTRA CREDIT
Clear grading criteria
Test heavy
1.0
5.0
FIN3403
Grade: Rather not say
May 5, 2022

If you feel there is no professor for this class it is perfectly normal. This professor basically records some lectures from the Himalayas and sends to you and you will give like 5 exams all of them harder and so out of the study guide. If possible avoid this man and if you have to take him then spend hours teaching yourself. Good luck

Tough grader
Get ready to read
Test heavy
1.0
5.0
FIN4303
Grade: A-
May 5, 2022

I am a straight-A student and this class should have been easy if it was taught by the professor when it really is not at all. You have to buy the procopy and teach yourself everything. The podcast videos are not helpful because he wants you to do the problems by yourself and then listen to the lecture??? when he hasnt teached it... do not take him

Tough grader
Test heavy
Graded by few things
1.0
5.0
FIN3403
Grade: B
May 10, 2022

Prepare to be your own professor. This guy's definition of being a prof is sending countless emails angrily telling students to STOP emailing him as he will NOT RESPOND. Expects you to buy his pro copy on top of the expensive textbook for test success. Textbook doesn't help with types of questions on the tests. Approx 20 min "lecture" per module...

EXTRA CREDIT
Test heavy
2.0
3.0
FIN3403
Grade: B+
May 13, 2022
Would take again

Save time and just get the Pro Copy Packet. TA gave great advise to write down question numbers next to equations from equation sheet to make tests easier. Besides that weekly chapter HW, with HW at end of each module with answers basically given in Pro Copy. Extra Credit from submitting said module HW early was good.

EXTRA CREDIT
Clear grading criteria
Lots of homework
4.0
3.0
FIN3403
Grade: A
Jul 30, 2022
Would take again

Buy the pro-copy; it's a lifesaver. Smersh will give you examples of every problem that will be on the test and you're allowed a formula sheet. He gives extra credit for turning in the homework early.

EXTRA CREDIT
Clear grading criteria
Lots of homework
1.0
4.0
FIN3403
Nov 4, 2022

Throughout the course, you are your own teacher. The course is already challenging as it is, and on top of that the professor says we aren't "allowed" to contact him, and if we do, it will be ignored. He only sends emails when he is angry and tells us not to contact him. DO NOT choose this professor if you require extra help. He will not assist.

3.0
2.0
FIN3403
Grade: B
Dec 5, 2022
Would take again

I did fine in this class and all the tools are there for you to succeed. Just know that the tests are weighted heavily and you realistically need to purchase the study guide to pass. Seems unethical to sell the study guide to students on top of having to purchase a financial calculator and an expensive online access book.

EXTRA CREDIT
Test heavy
5.0
2.0
FIN3403
Grade: A+
Dec 7, 2022
Would take again

To do well in this class, you must buy the ProCopy which contains the solutions to all test questions. There are 5 tests that are worth 60% of the grade, but there is a list of the exact test questions provided (different numbers). Professor Smersh offers a total of 5 extra credit points (5%) for great reflections or turning the homework in early.

EXTRA CREDIT
Clear grading criteria
Graded by few things
4.0
4.0
FIN3403
Dec 9, 2022
Would take again

5 tests. Get procopy guide. 3rd test is the hardest but an A in the class is possible.

Clear grading criteria
5.0
2.0
REE3043
Grade: A+
Dec 13, 2022
Would take again

No exams, just weekly quizzes about the subject material found in the ProCopy. He gives extra credit if you write a good application assignment paper. He responds to emails quickly. It's an easy A class.

EXTRA CREDIT
Clear grading criteria
Accessible outside class
5.0
5.0
REE3043
Grade: A-
Apr 16, 2023
Would take again

Best Professor at USF! Yes, his classes are test heavy, but his lectures are amazing. He breaks down the material so students can understand it fairly easy. He also lets you use notes when taking tests. I would recommend him 100%

Amazing lectures
Caring
Test heavy
3.0
2.0
REE3043
Grade: B
May 1, 2023
Would take again

It's an okay class. He drops one of your lowest test grades. No projects and no major exams just spread out test, vocab quizzes (2 attempts at) and a little prompt every other week write 200 words and you get 100%.

Lecture heavy
Test heavy
1.0
4.0
FIN3403
Grade: Rather not say
May 4, 2023

You are not allowed to email the professor under any circumstance. You have to contact a TA first, which they themselves take forever to respond and will just ghost you. Trust me find a different professor to take this class with and who will actually help their student.

Tough grader
Get ready to read
Test heavy
5.0
3.0
FIN3403
Grade: B+
May 10, 2023
Would take again

Spring 2023 online. 5 major exams. Before every test you will have a module homework on the chapters to prepare you for the test. He has podcast lectures that are very helpful. The course itself is very calculator oriented so if you are struggling get tutoring or ask a TA. 10/10 teacher. Submit the module homework early to get extra credit points.

EXTRA CREDIT
Test heavy
5.0
4.0
FIN3403
Grade: A+
Jul 5, 2023
Would take again

If you are good at teaching yourself material, this is the class for you. Professor Smersh gives students all of the resources that they need to do well on exams, and expectations are clear. My advice is to get the Pro-Copy, which has step-by-step solutions to homework problems that show up on exams. Concepts in the course are heavily math-based!

EXTRA CREDIT
Clear grading criteria
Lots of homework
1.0
4.0
FIN3403
Grade: B
Jul 9, 2023

Greg Smersh spent more time advertising his Fall class than he did teaching us in this class. As if I would ever put myself through another one of his horrible courses. Absolutely had to struggle for my B, with literally zero assistance from my own professor. The only thing he does is link outdated YouTube videos and sell us a cheat sheet. AVOID!

Tough grader
2.0
4.0
FIN3403
Grade: C+
Jul 15, 2023

Smersh really dropped off in his communication towards the end of the class. I wonder if he went on vacation midway through the semester. I feels like this was a class that he set up a few years ago and has not touched it since. Everything that he sent us was some BS copy and paste. No lectures, either. Some half-baked videos going over some hw.

Tough grader
Get ready to read
Test heavy
1.0
4.0
FIN3403
Grade: C
Jul 18, 2023

Greg Smersh is a laughably bad professor. I read some good reviews on here and on reddit and decided to give him a chance. It turns out - he doesn't do anything. We heard from him through emails throughout the semester. That is it. No dedicated videos for the class (only short videos of him stumbling over some problems) and no lectures. Horrible...

2.0
3.0
FIN3403
Grade: B-
Jul 18, 2023

Caused unneccessary stress by forcing me to rely on myself and Cengage's videos --which are bad, btw-- to learn finance. unsure why I paid to have a process when I went to a prerecorded video class. Would have preferred to be taught by someone who actually put in some effort but i guess that's too much to ask for these days. extra cred saved me.

1.0
3.0
FIN3403
Grade: C+
Jul 19, 2023

This professor was harsh with grading and all the assignments were videos or some copy and paste documents, it feels like he really gave up on all the students heck even the entire class. He really didn't do anything during the entire course and when he did i felt as if he did not even know the content.

Tough grader
Get ready to read
Test heavy
5.0
4.0
FIN3403
Grade: A
Jul 19, 2023
Would take again

Overall a tough course, but the professor really does give you everything you need to succeed.

EXTRA CREDIT
Clear grading criteria
1.0
5.0
FIN3403
Grade: Drop/Withdrawal
Oct 22, 2023

He is terrible do not take his classes.

Tough grader
3.0
5.0
FIN3403
Grade: A-
Nov 25, 2023

I will be honest, this class is hard. There are 5 modules with chapter assignments, 20-question homework assignments, and a 20 question short answer proctored test each module. If you turn in the homework early you can get lots of extra credit which brought my grade up a whole letter grade. Just be prepared for a very challenging class!!

EXTRA CREDIT
Lots of homework
Test heavy
3.0
5.0
FIN3403
Grade: A-
Nov 25, 2023

This class consists of chapter assignments, module homework, module reflections, and proctored module tests. Extra credit is offered but no grades are dropped! Very challenging and very time consuming

EXTRA CREDIT
Lots of homework
Test heavy
3.0
1.0
FIN3403
Grade: A+
Nov 25, 2023
Would take again

the material is a bit hard, but the professor gives you all that you need to succeed. do the homework, review the test prep questions, understand how to use the calculator, buy the procopy, and you should receive an A. Lowest ive gotten on the tests so far is a 95. EC for turning in homework early too, so take advantage of that.

EXTRA CREDIT
Test heavy
1.0
1.0
FIN3403
Grade: C
Dec 2, 2023

Smersh was by far the worst. The TA's (especially Berk) were rude and condescending. Dont expect help.

Tough grader
EXTRA CREDIT
Graded by few things
5.0
3.0
FIN3404
Grade: Rather not say
Dec 4, 2023
Would take again

These reviews scared me but just study the test guides, buy the ProCopy, and take advantage of being able to have 2 formula sheets front/back for exams. Listen to the podcasts, they help. Prof won't answer questions and will redirect to TAs, but they will take time to meet with you. Submit homework early and do a good job on reflections for EC.

EXTRA CREDIT
Test heavy
1.0
4.0
FIN3403
Grade: Drop/Withdrawal
Dec 12, 2023

Most spots for Principles of Finance are with him so it is kind of unfortunate how most people have to take him. I asked for help after struggling on the first test and never got a response from all 3 TA's and of course not him. I chose to drive all the way to St Pete instead of taking his class again. Don't take his class during the summer either.

Test heavy
3.0
3.0
FIN3404
Grade: A+
Mar 8, 2024
Would take again

Prof Smersh didn't really do anything during this class except for prepping you for the test by showing some example problems that would be on the test. Basically read the textbook each week, study the procopy religiously, and prep for his test guides by working on each problem from the procopy/podcasts, and you should be fine.

Get ready to read
EXTRA CREDIT
Test heavy
3.0
1.0
REE3043
Grade: A+
Mar 8, 2024
Would take again

Although Dr. Smersh is basically inaccessible in this class, it's really easy. Simply read the procopy, watch his super outdated lectures, and look over the study guide; and you should be fine. There are 12 proctored tests but they're open note open book in which almost all questions come directly from the procopy. Super easy class.

EXTRA CREDIT
Test heavy
5.0
3.0
FIN3403
Grade: B+
Apr 25, 2024
Would take again

When taking professor Smersh's course I didn't know what to expect just that FIN was hard. Professor Smersh gives you every resource and bit of help you need to succeed. Even my tutor said I was lucky I had him. Do the work and if you take advantage of EC, Knack, and TA's you'll do just fine in here. I'm no math wiz so smersh knows what to do!

EXTRA CREDIT
Clear grading criteria
Test heavy
5.0
2.0
REE3043
Grade: Rather not say
May 27, 2024
Would take again

Great class. Lectures/readings, quiz (open note) and exam (open note, Honorlock) each module, written assignment every other module. Prof doesn't interact w class, but he really doesn't need to. Reach out to TA w questions, she's great. He opens multiple modules at once so stay ahead and get writing assignments done early (some require research).

1.0
4.0
FIN4303
Grade: Not sure yet
Jun 24, 2024

- No lectures teaching the material. He uploads general videos found from youtube but they are never related to any of the homework questions or exam. - Reached out to the TA for help and was referred to Knack. No one is available via knack during my schedule time. He gives a study guide but the questions are not similar to the exam.

1.0
5.0
FIN3403
Grade: Not sure yet
Jun 24, 2024

Cont. - Procopy manual includes the answers found from mindtap, they are not step by step. - He gives no lectures, you are teaching yourself everything. - He only gives 20% extra credit if you submit the homework 2 days early. Not always possible for working students taking other classes.

1.0
5.0
FIN3403
Grade: Not sure yet
Jun 24, 2024

Cont. - NO LECTURES, POWEPOINTS, OR VIDEO WALKTHROUGHS YOU ARE TEACHING YOURSELF - Assignments are sometime due at 10pm. Again not helpful for working students. - Exams are Honor locked, closed booked. - Overall a horrible teacher and I am normally an A/B student.

5.0
3.0
FIN3403
Grade: A+
Aug 3, 2024
Would take again

Reviews are too harsh. Finance is a tough class. The material isn't too difficult but it takes a lot of time and practice. And he tells you exactly which book/video problems will be on the exams (with different numbers), so just focus on those. Also the ProCopy is a must, it has all the chapter problem answers, which are on the quizzes/exams.

2.0
5.0
FIN3403
Grade: C+
Nov 24, 2024

Had a bad time

4.0
3.0
FIN3403
Grade: B+
Jan 10, 2025
Would take again

Fin class is tough, but the professor provides all the resources you need to do well. Make use of the ProCopy, extra credit, and helpful TAs. Also, try Unstuckstudy - it's a great study tool!

4.0
3.0
FIN3403
Grade: B-
Apr 17, 2025
Would take again

The class itself is definitely tough and requires studying if you want to pass. Assignments consist of a weekly chapter assignment and a homework assignment before exams. 5 total proctored exams with an allowed 2 pages of formulas. Exams are tough but he gives you a list of everything that will be on the exam no tricks. Study guide was MAJOR help.

Participation matters
EXTRA CREDIT
Test heavy
5.0
3.0
FIN3403
Grade: A
May 2, 2025
Would take again

He provides study guide for all exams,telling you exactly what will be on them.Exams are 20?'s, type in your answers, and honorlock.The homework is 20?'s,and he gives extra credit if you submit it two days early.There are a few excel assignments,but videos on cengage walk you through.I highly recommend the procopy, as that is the key to passing.

EXTRA CREDIT
Clear grading criteria
5.0
3.0
FIN3403
May 21, 2025
Would take again

Great professor, cares about students and gives you resources to succeed

3.0
2.0
FIN3403
Grade: C+
Aug 5, 2025
Would take again

Dr. Smersh is great, I think my only complaint would be that the last exam was very confusing, even with the outline he provided, so I would say study up and instead of Youtube-ing the missing formulas like I did, contact him directly or purchase the additional formula sheet

EXTRA CREDIT
Clear grading criteria
Test heavy
5.0
3.0
FIN3403
Grade: A
Dec 20, 2025
Would take again

Great professor with a clear outline of expectations. The Pro Copy is essential for success since all formulas/practice problems are present. Focus on preparing the note sheets for exams and watch the podcast lectures to succeed.

EXTRA CREDIT
Lots of homework
Test heavy
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

25%

Textbook Required

20%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

B+

95% confidence
Based on 75 grades
Most common grades:
A (14)
A+ (14)
A- (9)
Grade Distribution
A(28)B(14)C(16)D(2)F(0)A-/B+(17)
Based on 88 reported grades
A: 14
A+: 14
A-: 9
B: 8
Common Tags
EXTRA CREDIT (35)
Test heavy (33)
Clear grading criteria (24)
Lots of homework (14)
Get ready to read (13)
Tough grader (13)
LOTS OF HOMEWORK (10)
TEST HEAVY (9)
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REE3103

5.0

(1)

FIN3401

5.0

(1)

FIN3402

4.0

(1)

FIN3404

3.3

(3)

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3.2

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