Welcome to Episode 1 of Beyond Class Hours—this is the series I made because I wish I had something like this when I was choosing a program. In this video, I start with the degree that shaped my entire college experience: Biology. I’m joined by Casey Eco (UP Diliman Biology, cum laude), and we talk honestly about why students choose bio (sometimes it’s pressure, sometimes it’s a long-term plan), what it’s actually like once you’re in, and why visiting a campus at least once can seriously change your perspective. We break down what you’ll study from first year to fourth year, including the reality check that bio has math, and that you’ll be juggling lecture + lab components. Casey also shares what deliverables look like (yes—research papers basically every semester), how enlistment works in UP, and how specializations/tracks can shape your experience (cellular/organismal vs ecology/environmental; plus microbiology/biomedical/environmental tracks depending on campus). We also talk about internships, org culture, and the big one: thesis—how it eats up “free time” beyond class hours and why planning early matters. My biggest takeaway: bio is broad, and medicine isn’t the only path. I share how specializing in microbiology opened up careers in clinical and research labs, epidemiology/immunology, and even food, beverage, and pharma. If you’re undecided, ask questions, explore early, and remember: you’re studying life, but you still have to live yours too.