This year, Advanced Biology feels different—in the best way possible. For the second year in a row, our class is made up entirely of girls, which gives it a unique energy. The discussions, experiments, and group work feel more collaborative, and it’s been refreshing to learn in this environment.

What really sets this class apart is how much choice and autonomy we have in what we learn. Instead of being locked into topics like environmental studies or heavy biochemistry, we actually get to decide which units we want to focus on. That freedom makes the learning more personal and engaging, and it sparks genuine curiosity because we’re diving into areas we actually care about.

Of course, the hands-on labs are a huge highlight. One memorable experiment involved using saliva, water, and crackers to explore how the enzyme amylase breaks down starch. It wasn’t the most glamorous lab (spitting in glassware is never fun), but it was unforgettable and gave us a real understanding of how enzymes work. We’ve also been working with microscopes, which adds another exciting layer to class.

On top of that, Ms. Peltzer keeps things creative with activities like scavenger hunts—especially our biochemistry one, which was both fun and surprisingly effective for reviewing material. Add in the fact that there were prizes for everyone, and it’s no surprise we’re already looking forward to the next one.

The best part of all, though, is the atmosphere. Ms. Peltzer genuinely cares about her students, and she goes out of her way to make science approachable, interesting, and fun. The class doesn’t feel stressful—it feels like a space where we want to learn and where discovery and collaboration are at the heart of every lesson.

After just four weeks, Advanced Biology has already found a special place in my academic experience. From cool labs to Dunkin’ class traditions, it’s more than just science—it’s about excitement, connection, and the joy of learning at a higher level.

By Jana Zivkovic '27 and Ania Karusewicz '26