First of all, Irina is great! I am not a math-oriented person. She was patient and never made me feel like I was inadequate because of my inability to understand. Instead, she often helped me after class or during lessons to actually be able to UNDERSTAND the material. I never had a problem with tests, which is hard to believe for me; I feel like I learned a lot, despite little to no interest! Sometimes the amount of homework can be annoying, but she grades very liberally and only twice per semester in what she calls "journal checks." She is funny and approachable, and responded to emails quickly and efficiently! You will need the book and you will need to show up to class every day (there is a 2% deduction if you don't), but I truly enjoyed this course and Irina!