Teaching

Teaching is one of my great passions. I love not only mathematics, but explaining it to others in an easy-to-understand way. My philosophy of teaching is that success in mathematics is mostly dependent on the hard work and dedication one puts into it, primarily with regard to practicing problems. Therefore, many students who otherwise think that they are not "smart" enough to learn math, can do so with the right direction from their teachers. My job is to guide the student in this pursuit and give them the confidence to succeed.

Click here to view my teaching statement, where I explain my teaching philosophy in greater detail.

Teaching experience

As instructor at CMU

21-671 Computational Linear Algebra Fall 2024

As instructor at LSU

MATH 1553 Calculus II (Honors) Spring 2024
MATH 1550 Calculus I Fall 2023
MATH 1550 Calculus I Fall 2022
MATH 1021 College Algebra Fall 2019

As recitation instructor at LSU

MATH 1431 Business Calculus Spring 2019
MATH 1431 Business Calculus Fall 2018

Student testimonials

"He gave great, engaging lectures and was very thorough answering questions." – RateMyProfessors.com on May 28, 2024

"He clearly has an aptitude and passion for teaching, which makes lectures fun and informative. Definitely take. 6/5 professor!" – RateMyProfessors.com on May 12, 2024

"Best college professor by far. Really cared about his students and did whatever he could to make sure we succeeded. If you put the effort in and show that you want to do well, he will reciprocate that energy and help you. Super funny and relatable to his students; sad that I will not be taking him again. Cannot say enough good things about Hicks!" – RateMyProfessors.com on Dec 11, 2023

"By the time midterm grades came out, I had a D-. I reached out to Dr. Hicks and told him my concerns. I now have a B. He is a very understanding and definitely a caring professor." – RateMyProfessors.com on Dec 7, 2023

"He is amazing and cares about his students and helps them understand and truly teaches the content. I have never had this great of a teacher before." – Anonymous LSU student on Dec 1, 2023

"He's very easy to connect with via email or office hours, and I can tell he genuinely wants to help every student as much as possible. He's a great teacher." – Anonymous LSU student on Nov. 22, 2022

"Great job overall ... has the knowledge and communication skill to keep students engaged effectively and carry out his lesson plans in a timely manner, while exceeding the requirements of someone in his position." – Anonymous LSU student on Nov. 22, 2022