Letters from future students

Dear Mr. Fan,

Your passion for mathematics was infectious, and it ignited a spark within me that continues to burn brightly to this day. Your teaching style was not just about equations and theorems but about fostering a deep appreciation for the beauty and logic that mathematics embodies. You had a unique way of making even the most complex concepts seem approachable and engaging.

The problem-solving skills and mathematical mindset that you instilled in me have been invaluable throughout my life. They not only helped me excel academically but also in my career and personal endeavors. I often find myself thinking back to the lessons you taught and the way you encouraged us to think critically and creatively.

I want you to know that your influence has extended far beyond the classroom. I chose a career in mathematics, and I'm currently working as a research mathematician. I owe much of my success to the strong foundation you provided me during those formative years.

Thank you for being an outstanding educator, mentor, and role model.

Dear Mr. Fan,

Looking back, I realize that my struggles with your class were not entirely your fault. I had a hard time connecting with the subject matter, and math just never seemed to click for me. However, I also felt that your teaching style didn't resonate with my learning preferences.

I often found the lessons to be a bit overwhelming. The pace was fast, and it felt like we were constantly moving on to new topics before I had a chance to grasp the previous ones. I wish there had been more opportunities for in-depth explanations and additional support for students who were struggling.

Despite my less-than-stellar experience in your class, I want you to know that I did learn some valuable lessons from the experience. It taught me the importance of perseverance and seeking help when needed. Over the years, I've come to appreciate the significance of mathematics in various aspects of life, and I've worked on improving my math skills independently.

Thank you for your dedication to teaching, even when faced with students like me who didn't always appreciate it at the time.

In both letters, I see the significance of striking a balance between challenging students and providing the support they need to succeed. I must remain open to feedback and be willing to adjust my teaching strategies to better meet the diverse needs of my students. These letters reinforce my hopes of being an effective and inspirational math teacher while emphasizing my worries about the potential for students to struggle or not find the subject as engaging as I would hope.