Biology

This Fall 2025 semester, there were some changes made to the course compared to past semesters. There were no longer take-home exams, reportedly due to issues of cheating in previous semesters, and the in-person exams felt somewhat unfair in how they were graded. I remember talking to people who took Eco Evo before and hearing that it was a more relaxed class, with exams that were easier to manage because of opportunities to earn points back through “Exam Wrappers.” However, that did not always seem to remain true for this semester, even with the Exam Wrappers. At times, Professor Byrne’s grading felt strict, and the class averages for each exam were not very high. There was an instance where I answered a question correctly but still lost points because I included an equation that he considered unnecessary (even though it was relevant to the topic). Although we were allowed to use a front-and-back reference sheet to include information from slideshows, readings, and homework assignments, even when that information was written down accurately on the exam from the provided course materials, it sometimes felt as though responses were still marked as incorrect or incomplete. I also felt that the lab component was very time-consuming, particularly with the Skill Builders and the amount of statistical work involved. At times, it felt more like a statistics lab than a biology lab. However, Professor Nurok was always very accommodating and kind, and was willing to meet with students to help with any questions. Overall, Professor Byrne as a person is very kind and a chill professor. Attending his office hours before and after exams was especially helpful, as he explained concepts more clearly during those meetings. At times the course felt boring, and that lack of engagement made it difficult to stay motivated throughout the semester. However, even with this in mind, my overall experience was okay, and I would recommend Professor Byrne as a professor due to his kindness and willingness to help students.

This Fall 2025 semester, there were some changes made to the course compared to past semesters. There were no longer take-home exams, reportedly due to issues of cheating in previous semesters, and the in-person exams felt somewhat unfair in how they were graded. I remember talking to people who took Eco Evo before and hearing that i …Read more

Every week there are 3 classes. Two of them are standard lectures and one of them is a group discussion about the homework with a "peer leader." This can sometimes feel repetitive and unnecessary, as you are just going over the questions you already did for the homework. Additionally the questions on the test are not always the exact stuff you will have learned in class. You are tested on a lot of concepts that are quite tangential and not always directly taught.

Every week there are 3 classes. Two of them are standard lectures and one of them is a group discussion about the homework with a "peer leader." This can sometimes feel repetitive and unnecessary, as you are just going over the questions you already did for the homework. Additionally the questions on the test are not always the exact …Read more

Professor Eggleston was great! Her lectures were very straightforward, and I was able to get a lot of knowledge from this class. Attending office hours also helped a lot to clear questions regarding the lab, assignments, and projects. I will confirm that sometimes rubrics on lab reports were not very clear, and it was very easy to lose points, as she might assume skills in writing lab reports + methodology, etc, but they were also such a small % of our grade, that almost no impact (the lowest grade I got was an 80). However, if you are truly passionate to learn about microbiology, bacteria and so much more, I recommend it. I found this course to be easier than previous courses I have taken before such as cell bio, eco evo, and general chemistry. I honestly think she values your effort, dedication, participation, and asking questions. She also makes sure to make space for you and is flexible when times are difficult. Getting a good grade is actually easy if you put effort (just like any other class). I do think that getting a bad grade in the class is a choice. I definitely recommend this class and would be happy to take it again.

Professor Eggleston was great! Her lectures were very straightforward, and I was able to get a lot of knowledge from this class. Attending office hours also helped a lot to clear questions regarding the lab, assignments, and projects. I will confirm that sometimes rubrics on lab reports were not very clear, and it was very easy to lo …Read more