- Professor Virtanen is knowledgeable in the topics he taught in this intro to C++ computer programming course.

- He simplified many topics with various examples within the presentation slides and some computer program examples showed in class. (FYI: he’s a fan of The Simpsons, so many of his examples reflect that.)

- However, as simple as the in-class examples appear, you really have to put in the time to study because there are so many little things in the syntax of various topics (like vectors, arrays, loops, pointers, and more) that do matter when it comes to inputting/outputting info the way they should.

- Without understanding the syntax, the topics do become confusing pretty quickly, and it’s very difficult to write programs without many compiling errors, including the ones for the homework assignments.

- The homeworks are weekly computer programs you have to write up based on the topic at the time; best 8 out of 9 count for 30% of the grade.

- Syntax is also a key when it
comes to the two midterms and the final, all of which are written. Without comprehension, points will be hard to come by because syntax and input/output are vital to the grade, and without those being close to right, you won’t get many points, as was my case some of the time.

- However, the graders were known to be tough (according to Professor Virtanen), so it could be beneficial to see him and get some points back; he gives added leeway.

- 2 grading scenarios exist for tests: 20% midterm and 30% final; or 20% better midterm and 50% final, whichever gives better grade.

- As someone who struggled due to the lecture pace vs. learning the material, I recommend using professor and TA office hours, tutoring sessions and practicing sample tests – I received a decent grade with the added help and time.

Virtanen was an amazing professor. His homework and tests were reasonable. You still had to study but come on this is college. I ended up with an A- even after getting a 76 on the first midterm, so do not worry if you bomb one test because there are two grading options. DO ALL YOUR HW ASSIGNMENTS, it's worth 25-30% of your grade depending on the grading scheme you use. I got 101% on the hw so that really bumped my grade up. So just work hard on the hw, he did mention some of the homework assignments on the final. Also, make sure to do all the practice exams he provides, they help A LOT!