Course selections are due here at East. Students are picking the classes in which they are interested in. As a sophomore last year, I was very intrigued by the anatomy course that was being offered. Now, as a junior who has just finished taking anatomy, I have some thoughts on the course.
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First of all, if you are in any way interested in the human body, medicine, and health, then I 100% believe you should take anatomy. It is an 18-week course, which dives into the human body systems and its functions. The course itself is not exceedingly difficult, but it is definitely not an easy one.
The workload depends on each student. If you are someone who gets work done quickly- the only homework you would have, would be to study (in general). If you are not that kind of student that is okay! You just might have to do a worksheet or two a week.
In the course there are fun labs you do. For those of you who are hands-on learners, this class will be one of your favorites. One thing I would warn everyone before taking this class is that you will be involved in dissections. Of course, you will not be forced to do the dissecting if you do not want to, but you will be in the room when they do happen. Personally, the dissections were incredibly fun and interesting, the downside however is the smell… Thankfully, there are ways to help with that issue. Whether you want to bring in essential oils, wear a mask, or brave the smell is up to you.
Overall, it is a fascinating class. If you pay attention, ask questions, and are dedicated to the course you will do well!
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After finals were over, I was very conflicted. I had an amazing time while taking anatomy, but I was not happy with the number of credits that class is worth. Like I said, anatomy is not the hardest course, however, it should be worth more than one credit. If you consider all the work that you will do within the class, including labs, quizzes, tests, dissections, and the final- then it should count just as much an honors course.
I was let down to find out that anatomy class is worth the same amount of credit as an academic course. I am not trying to invalidate the effort it takes to be successful in an academic course. However, the amount of challenging work a student does in anatomy should not be rewarded the same as an academic class. I believe the school board should change the amount of credits anatomy is worth or add an AP/honors anatomy course for those who want to pursue a career in the health field. It is a great course, but the amount of dedication and hard work it takes to be successful-should be shown through a higher credit value.
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I am in no way telling you not to take anatomy! I encourage you to! Please do not let the number of credits stop you from taking the course. I am so glad I took anatomy and would not go back and change my decision. Anatomy was a rewarding course; however, it had its flaws just like every other course. If you cannot decide whether or not to take anatomy- THIS IS YOUR SIGN TO TAKE IT.
