Yes, Arkcon. I am exempt from overtime pay as well. I am a biochemist going back to school for my Org. PhD. I am a full-time employee, taking night classes, just started, but in two semesters will have my fellowship from the school. I have 3 yrs undergrad research in a carb lab, and believe me it was not easy. I was registered for one credit, but I love the lab and undertook grad-level research. This meant that I had to put in 20-30 hrs/wk in addition to my studies (full-time student) and a part-time job that worked me about 30 hrs/wk also.
To the undergrad... if you love it, you won't mind it. I am pursing a future that excites me; I study a chemistry that I am passionate about. Don't get scared by what we tell you, just understand that the sciences don't run on the same time frame as us humans. We prefer to eat and sleep at certain times, but we are ruled by the reactions and perseverance to expand our knowledge for all scientists and the world.
-that's my 2cents.
glycogrl07