BIOLOGY I

I walked through the entrance of the college building, the hum of students and distant chatter filling the air. The cool air-conditioned atmosphere was a sharp contrast to the warmth of the sun outside, and I instantly felt a bit more awake.

My sneakers squeaked against the smooth floor as I made my way through the spacious hallways, grateful for the map they mailed along with the syllabus. Without it, I’d probably end up wandering aimlessly through this labyrinth. The buildings were big and the campus bigger. I couldn't believe Derek's family founded such an institute.

Heading up to the second floor for my first class, Biology I, I couldn’t help the knot of nerves in my stomach. New faces, new subjects—it was all so overwhelming. When I finally found my classroom, I paused, taking a deep breath to calm myself.

‘It’s just the first day. You’ve got this.’ I told myself before pushing open the door.

I was greeted by an almost-empty room. Only one person sat towards the front, his fa