The Anatomy & Physiology Series

For most pre-professional health programs, it’s a good idea for students to take the anatomy and physiology series. Overall, it wasn’t as difficult as I imagined. Meaning, it was challenging, but doable. I enjoyed the entire sequence and would gladly take it again. However, it is crucial for your success, to find a professor that works well for your learning style. But sometimes, your options are limited. However, if you have options, use your resources & find out which one works best for you.

My professor did not require a textbook, but recommended students purchase one for reference. The only time I used the book was for labeling structures in lab. Keep in mind that spelling and pronunciation will be important throughout the course series. My first tip: seek out students who have taken the series before and ask questions about how their professor structured their classes and labs; no two professors are the same. Before the term started, I sought advice from a student in the nursing program and I’m grateful that I did.
Another tip: find at least one reliable student to study with. The entire series is lecture heavy, so it’s important to have someone you can rely on in case you cannot make it to class. College can be intimidating, but remember it is in no way a competition, think of it as an opportunity. Lastly, find an effective study group and be sure to diminish habits that perpetuate distractions. Study groups give the opportunity to contrast and compare notes, insights, and important concepts that may have been overlooked or missed entirely. Good luck!

Anatomy &Physiology 1

The first course in the A&P sequence focuses on developing a vocabulary of terminology appropriate for medical health professionals. Students will learn body organization, the structures and functions of the cell and about muscle contraction. It examines the integumentary, skeletal, and muscular system. A&P 1 also included a lab with animal dissection and my school was fortunate enough to include cadaver observation. In my opinion, the most challenging part of this class was learning how to organize my notes for efficient studying. I wish I had made flashcards this term. However, I found mnemonics to be the most beneficial in helping me retain information. Although you may be tempted, try not to write every single thing down in lecture. I recommend using 1 notebook for the entire sequence (for class I would take incredibly messy notes and rewrite them in a different notebook that I plan to keep for future studying purposes). Or, if allowed, record the professor’s lectures. I used a variety of applications including: Tiny Cards, Picmonic, Quizlet and the Human Anatomy Atlas to help study. To achieve an A in this class, studying needs to become a habit. Students will want to be able to retain what you learn in order to apply the information in future classes, so don’t slack.

Anatomy & Physiology 2

The second course in the A&P sequences introduces the anatomical and physiological correlation among the cardiovascular, nervous and endocrine system with lab included. This course is no cake walk; it is dense, and covers everything from neurotransmitters to the function of the heart. Overall, it was my favorite course in the 3 part series. There is an emphasis on hormones, the cardiac cycle and during lab sessions there will be dissections on a variety of organs. My first tip: I recommend making flashcards and utilizing tables to help you organize your notes. Although it is tedious, writing things down and saying them aloud over and over again will help with memorization. Secondly, what I learned during this term, is when the professor asks questions during lecture, don’t be afraid to give the wrong answer. It is much better to get it wrong in class than on a test or quiz. Professors ask questions, not only to ensure students are paying attention, but to make sure they are speaking clearly. Lastly, what helped me most was drawing out the processes and making my own visual imagery in my notes. In my opinion, to achieve an A in this course, regular attendance will be required. It will be crucial to understand electrolyte and acid-base balance. Although there are many great videos online, there are many convoluted processes and intricate details about these systems. You will want to know exactly what your professor expects from you, because you don’t need to know everything.

Anatomy & Physiology 3

The third and final course in the A&P sequence. This course discusses the respiratory, lymphatic, digestive, urinary and reproductive system. There is an emphasis on metabolism, fluid transport, and lab sessions include both animal heart dissection and cadaver observation. Understanding the kidneys and their role in filtering blood to urine will be important part of this course. Typically throughout the series you will want to invest approximately 12 hours a week to studying A&P outside of class. So create an environment conducive to learning. Additionally, this is the course that involves applying your critical thinking skills. My advice is to not cram, or get in the habit of cramming for tests and finals. I promise, it will be the difference between being an average student and an A student. You will want to continue studying previous A&P courses and integrate everything you’ve learned to be successful in this course. I found that taking an chemistry class helps tremendously. If possible, I would attempt a basic chemistry class before the A&P sequence.

Taking the anatomy series provides a solid foundation in the study of the human body, which opens up various career opportunities in healthcare, research, and related fields.

Here are some types of jobs for individuals anatomy Majors :

1. Anatomist

2. Medical Illustrator

3. Medical Writer

4. Healthcare Educator

5. Research Scientist

6. Pathologist

7. Forensic Scientist

8. Physician Assistant

9. Physical Therapist

10. Occupational Therapist

11. Surgical Technician

12. Biomedical Engineer

13. Pharmaceutical Sales Representative

14. Genetic Counselor

15. Anatomy Lab Technician

These are just a few examples of the diverse career paths available to anatomy majors. Depending on their specific interests and additional education or training, individuals with an anatomy background can find rewarding roles in healthcare, academia, research, and various other related fields.