“When I am a teacher, I want to be like Professor André. She had a wonderful way of ensuring broad class participation, making the material accessible, but never compromising on the high standard needed to master the valuable toolkit. I thought the way she handled questions in class, involved and encouraged us all, was remarkable. Although she gave us tough hypothesis assignments and a final exam, I loved how the questions integrated all our learning goals. The grades were a clear reflection of our understanding, stretching us to work even harder. I loved the inclusion of short videos, that were always played without a hiccup (which shows preparation) and also appreciated that slides were updated after a class session and additional material shared. This course was the toughest, but the highlight of my semester!”

From: Anonymous Student
The Business of Nonprofits, Fall 2023

“Your contribution to this course is immense. Your dedication to our learning is obvious in the time and effort you put into our recitation problem sets, answer keys, office hours, exam review sessions, and in general going the extra mile to help whenever you can. You’re not only incredibly patient but also a gifted teacher and quiet leader (the best kind) who is clearly passionate and knowledgeable about organic chemistry. Without your additional insight and teaching, I would certainly not learn as much in this course. You’ve made it not only more approachable but truly *fun* to solve puzzles and learn patterns (I can’t believe I used “fun,” but I think it’s true). Thank you so very much. You’ve been by far my best TA at Columbia. I think I speak for the whole class when I say, you are very appreciated!”

From: Anonymous Student
Organic Chemistry I, Fall 2023

“I wanted to take a moment to express my sincere gratitude for your outstanding guidance throughout the Foundation of Public Health class. Your passion for the subject matter, combined with your expertise and engaging teaching style, made the learning experience both enriching and enjoyable. The depth of knowledge you shared and the real-world examples you brought into the classroom significantly enhanced my understanding of public health principles and their practical applications. I appreciate the effort you put into creating a supportive learning environment, encouraging thoughtful discussions, and fostering a sense of curiosity among your students. Your commitment to our academic growth has not gone unnoticed, and I am truly grateful for the impact you’ve had on my education. Thank you once again for your dedication to teaching and for being a source of inspiration in the field of public health. I look forward to applying the valuable insights gained from your class in my future studies and career.”

From: Ram Bhandari
Foundation of Public Health, Fall 2023

“I want to thank you for challenging me professionally and personally throughout the semester. You are caring and always there for us. I truly appreciate your teaching considering multiple learning styles. I also enjoyed focusing heavily on decision-making and performance patterns allowing me to strength my clinical skills to a new level. Thank you very much for the course. I enjoyed every minute of your lecture as well as your sense of humor.”

From: Luis Filgueira
Cognitive Basis of Function and Decision Making, Spring 2024

“(…) Having a professor that goes the extra mile to make the teacher-student relationship more personable makes the class more enjoyable and motivating. For many of us, it is also a chance to practice and experience networking with those we want to learn from, for the first time. Overall, I appreciate that Professor Gulati has shown he cares about his students even in a large classroom setting, as well as teaching with passion and energy.”

From: Anonymous Student
Principles of Economics, Fall 2023

“I am writing to express my deepest gratitude for the exceptional experience I had in your class. It is rare to find an academic environment where truly inclusive and stimulating dialogue is not just a goal, but a reality, and your class was one of those rare treasures.

The small group setting you fostered allowed for a level of engagement and interaction that was both unique and deeply impactful. We actually all became good friends, which, I believe, is the true prerequisite of a good intellectual dialogue. Your skill in managing discussions was nothing short of remarkable. You struck a perfect balance, guiding us without being overly directive, and yet never absent from the conversation. Your subtle artistry in this regard is something I greatly admire. I hope, one day, to be able to conduct discussions in the same fashion.

In your class, I felt welcomed and valued, which inspired me each week to actively participate and immerse myself in the learning process. Your human and pedagogical qualities have not only contributed to my educational journey but have also left a lasting impression on me.

Thank you for creating an environment where learning is a joy and where each student can feel seen and heard. Your dedication to teaching and your students is truly inspiring. In 10 years of higher education, I rarely experienced that, I am truly grateful.”

From: Evan Gregoire
Persons, States and Corporations, Spring 2022

“(…) As an international student, this is my first semester studying at Columbia. At times, I felt overwhelmed by the coursework, but Professor Kaya was friendly, courageous, and supportive. Not only did she emphasize that the focus should be on what we learned and gained from the class rather than just the grades on exams, but she also demonstrated great patience during her office hours to help students understand any concepts they found challenging. The professor’s words and actions have truly boosted my confidence in my learning journey, and I am sincerely thankful to be studying with her in this class!”

From: Anonymous Student
Optimization Models and Methods, Fall 2023

“Thank you for being the most amazing TA ever year. Coming into CSSW, and especially into Micro and Macro Economics, I was worried that I wouldn’t be able to keep up. Your labs helped me understand the material so much better and created a space where I felt comfortable and safe to participate and share my thoughts, even if I was not confident that I had the right answer. The energy that you bring to lab is so appreciated, and we can tell that you put so much effort into making sure that we are good and feel alright with the material that we are learning. You have also been such an awesome advocate for us to both professors during the year and I’m sure helped us in ways that we don’t even know about. Thank you so much!”

From: Anonymous Student
Macroeconomics, Fall 2023; and Policy Analysis II Lab, Spring 2024

“James provides an instrumental component to the learning process – not only reviewing the relevant course material, but shoring up financial concepts for those struggling and providing additional material for those of more advanced backgrounds looking to challenge themselves.”

From: Michael Allen
Finance II, Fall 2023

“Thank you so much for making this course engaging and comfortable for me. I really enjoyed your classes and I appreciate the effort that went to keeping the information interesting. All the websites and sources shared are still fun to learn from and I shared it with my friends, who enjoyed them too! I’m especially grateful for the ask-a-neuroscientist panel which broadened my mind towards all the careers possible and I’m also much more comfortable with the idea of exploring my interest as I go. Please thank the people on the panel for their advice and guidance, it was comforting to hear their experience. Lastly, I loved doing the assignments since they were engaging and I enjoyed exploring my interests through selecting topics for my presentations – so I appreciate the creativity in the assignments given. I’m looking forward to learning more about the field of neuroscience.”

From: Prajna Arun
Introduction to Neuroscience, Spring 2024

“Thank you for making learning Japanese one of the most rewarding experiences of my life; it’s crazy to think that I haven’t even been doing it for an entire year. The amount of work and care that you pour into this class does not go unnoticed. From the lecture slides, to the detailed feedback on every assignment we turn in, to the effort you put in organizing chat club, and the little treats you bring us (either おかし or culture-related bits of knowledge), I appreciate every second I spend in your class. I don’t think I’ve enjoyed coming to a class as much as this one in my entire life to the point where some days my biggest motivation for simply getting out of bed is knowing that I have Japanese later in the day.”

From: Anonymous Student
First Year Japanese 2

“In a world where learning can tighten one’s spleen,
Comes a hero, none other than Dr. Greene.
Not just a sage on the educational scene,
But a beacon of kindness, compassion, and sheen

With knowledge vast, you share and guide,
Your friendly smile always by our side,
Approachable, with arms open wide,
In your calm classroom, worries slide.”

From: Anonymous Student
Psychosocial and Mental Health Challenges in Forced Migration, Spring 2024

“I know many people have said this already but truly thank you for being so receptive to student thoughts/ideas. You curate such a genuine, curious, and open space for learning and I feel so comfortable asking questions/talking to my peers in the class during discussions. You clearly put your students first. The class itself was fascinating too—I can connect the concepts we learn to everything else I learn/experience as the material is so applicable across disciplines. Thank you for always warming my heart with your “I’m so happy to see you all here today’s” !!!”

From: Anonymous Student
Moral Psychology, Spring 2024

“Professor Simons, how grateful I am to have had you as my CC professor. I had no idea what to expect going into CC, but I have left with it being one of my favorite classes of the year. You have helped me learn so many philosophical concepts and analyze so many incredible and difficult to interpret texts, and I will never forget what I have learned. Your class (CC) wins for my longest google document comprising of 119 pages of notes, quotes, and descriptions. Your kindness and intelligence radiate from your teaching, and I hope that you know truly how wonderful you are. I wanted to let you know how much your class and teaching has impacted my Sophomore year at Columbia, I always looked forward to coming to class, even if I truly did not understand what I read the night prior haha. Thank you for such a rewarding semester, and I wish you the best on your adventures to come, you are a gift to Columbia Professor Simons.”

From: Anonymous Student
Contemporary Civilizations, Fall 2023 and Spring 2024

“Professor Simons, how grateful I am to have had you as my CC professor. I had no idea what to expect going into CC, but I have left with it being one of my favorite classes of the year. You have helped me learn so many philosophical concepts and analyze so many incredible and difficult to interpret texts, and I will never forget what I have learned. Your class (CC) wins for my longest google document comprising of 119 pages of notes, quotes, and descriptions. Your kindness and intelligence radiate from your teaching, and I hope that you know truly how wonderful you are. I wanted to let you know how much your class and teaching has impacted my Sophomore year at Columbia, I always looked forward to coming to class, even if I truly did not understand what I read the night prior haha. Thank you for such a rewarding semester, and I wish you the best on your adventures to come, you are a gift to Columbia Professor Simons.”

From: Anonymous Student
Contemporary Civilizations, Fall 2023 and Spring 2024

“Thank you for being such an attentive teacher. You always make it a point to answer our questions, however obvious or repetitive. I also appreciate your taking the time to congratulate me on my performance in the mid-term. Given the size of the course, I was taken aback that you would take the time to do so. It has further encouraged me to do my best.”

From: Anonymous Student
Introduction to Computing for Engineers and Applied Scientists, Spring 2024

“I want to say big thanks to Yi. He always prepares the lecture with interesting and useful contents. He is always happy to answer my questions during the class time. He also cares about his students by providing accommodations so that the course is not stressful. I used to fear the programming class because I generally fell behind the class and felt miserable not understanding the material and homework. But in his class, with his wonderful lecture and very helpful office hour time, (sometimes there are extra office hours), I am able to keep up the course content and feel more confident in my coding ability. He additionally provides me some guidance in academic career which is very helpful for me. I hope I can take another course taught by him in the future semester.”

From: Ze Wang
Data Engineering with Python, Spring 2024

“Your passion for your work is so admirable and I feel fortunate to be able to experience and imbibe that kind of energy.

I see myself as an entrepreneur in healthcare, in the future and I feel like I am in a much better position to do so now that I have had a chance to learn from you. The Shouldice and Eli Lilly case discussion in class were amazing, they will always stay with me. 

You changed the way I think, it is like I have a new eye for business now, and I think no gift can match that.”

From: Sana Habeeb
Operations Strategy, Spring 2024

“I want to express my heartfelt thanks for the guidance and support you’ve provided throughout this semester. Your patience and kindness have made learning an enjoyable experience. You stayed after every class to answer our questions on assignments and job applications was extremely helpful and appreciated. Your ability to listen patiently and respond with such kindness has truly made a difference in my educational and career journey. Thank you for being such a remarkable instructor and for all the effort you put into helping me grow.”

From: Ocean Yu
Financial Risk Management, Spring 2024

“As a military veteran, who served over 30 years in the United States Army, with four combat tours, I was hesitant about going back to school at this juncture in my life. I am eternally gratefully to Professor Katherine Marshall-Polite. She not only did a phenomenal job creating an inclusive, motivational, and inspiring learning environment, she also assisted me with my transition and reintegration back into civilian academic life through her cultural competence and understanding of Military Veteran challenges. She was engaging, approachable and empathetic, which allowed all her students to show up as our authentic selves, and grow each week during the semester. I will never forget my experience as her student. I’m proud to be a Columbia School of Social Work student at 60 years old and excited about beginning a second career; much of that has to do with my time learning from Katherine Marshall- Polite; Thank you so much Professor.”

From: Sa’eed Mustafa
Human Behavior In The Social Environment, Fall 2023

“Dr. Madra is a bank of knowledge, and sets the bar so high for engaging with the class. I love her class – it’s the one I look forward to the most each week. Her slides are clear, her expectations are transparent, and I love the study guides built for our exams. I also appreciate how you have truly built a rapport with your TA’s, because they are so equipped to answer questions, and I can tell there’s a good feedback loop. You are an excellent lecturer! It’s second nature to you, and it’s really great to witness. I’m beyond excited for INP next semester – thank you for being a great educator.”

From: Anonymous Student
Physiology & Nutrition Through The Lifecycle, Fall 2023

“Thank you for teaching us to center human rights in our future careers in public health. It has been an honor to learn from you, someone who has been a lifelong champion of human rights. You and your class are why I came to the Mailman School of Public Health, and this university is extremely lucky to have you as a faculty member. I am a better student and critical thinker because of your class, health, and human rights. And I will be a better public health practitioner because of what I learned from you and your class. I have spoken to countless classmates throughout Mailman, and everyone I have spoken to who has taken your class has mentioned how fondly they think of your class and your teaching. Thank you so much for everything that you do here at Columbia and outside of Columbia. The world is a better place because of you.”

From: Anonymous Student
Human Rights, Fall 2023

“I wanted to send a special thanks to Dr, Simon and Dr. Mendonca for spending every week guiding me personally and professionally. They are wonderful, willing to help, and caring. I appreciated their enthusiasm and energy in helping me to go through this journey so effectively. I thank them for their commitment to my success, I could not have done it without their support.”

From: Luis Filgueira
OT Capstone I, Fall 2023

“Thank you for being kind, caring, smart, for your assisting us to think critically and argue with power and to do it all from a place of goodness and love.”

From: Marc Nock
Personal Leadership; Integration of Science in Practice, Fall 2023

“I wanted to express my sincere gratitude for the valuable and insightful experience I’ve had in your course. Your approachability and willingness to connect with your students have significantly enhanced the learning experience. The time and effort you invest in understanding and advising us are truly appreciated. Thanks for taking the time out of your busy schedule to provide guidance!

I am especially thankful for your mentorship. I feel fortunate to have had the opportunity to learn from someone as dedicated and supportive as you. I look forward to continuing to grow and learn!”

From: Anonymous Student
Pricing Models for Financial Engineering, Fall 2023

“I know I don’t talk a lot in class, but I just wanted to let you know how much I enjoy your course and how you teach and discuss these books. I always look forward to your class; I find it interesting, reflective, and enjoyable. You are a wonderful professor and I am so grateful to have you for one of my first classes at Columbia.”

From: Anonymous Student
Literature Humanities, Fall 2023

“Thank you so much for being such an empathetic educator professor. You really think through every tiny detail for your students whether it is extending submission deadlines or sharing tips and suggestions for the exam, you really balance pushing your students to excel while giving them a lot of support and reassurance which we appreciate.”

From: Anonymous Student
Microeconomics for International and Public Affairs, Fall 2023

“(…) Her dedication to her students is coated in genuine warmth and support. I feel really lucky to learn from her and alongside her. As a Black woman, representation can be hard to find in this field. I am often the only Black woman in my classes and my professors usually do not look like me. Learning from another Black woman is an experience I will forever treasure. Dr. AT inspired me to keep pushing and to stand, unapologetically, in my truth. Thank you so much for a wonderful semester!!”

From: Anjanae Lawrence
SWP Alcohol and Substance Use, Fall 2023

“(…) Writing can be an arduous practice, especially after a hiatus from school, but the inclusive and positive learning environment that you foster and promote makes it enjoyable. You clearly take your role seriously, Kate, and respect us all as we are and where we are in our development as writers. I like, and admittedly am amused, when you call us ‘scholars’. Thank you.”

From: Sarah Keane
University Writing, Fall 2023