Walking past Coppell High School room E206, “ooos” and ”aahs” fill the science classroom. Looking in, a dissected pig along with various menacing tools are splayed on a table with students crowding around to get a better look.
What might be a disturbing sight for some is an exhilarating lab experience for seniors Harini Ramamurthy and Pragnya Kolla, who launched the CHS Anatomical Society – a first-year club dedicated to exploring human anatomy.
After taking Anatomy and Physiology in junior year, Ramamurthy and Kolla discovered an interest in the ideology of anatomy.
“We were fascinated by how different systems of the body connect and function, so we created a club that further expands on that,” Kolla said.
While planning the club, Ramamurthy and Kolla carefully researched engaging and distinctive activities that would set their organization apart from other health science clubs. With the guidance of club sponsor Jodie Deinhammer, their vision became a reality.
“It’s just the fact that they wanted to do it for their own interest in learning as opposed to a resume booster,” Deinhammer said. “I get approached at the beginning of the year for so many clubs but as a sponsor of many clubs, I tell students ‘no,’ until Harini and Pragnya walked in and described their club to me. Off the bat, I knew it would be amazing.”
At their first meeting, Ramamurthy and Kolla found a large number of students showing up. Their second meeting included activities that seem unique to other clubs. Bringing in a doctor who showed students how to dissect a pig and rat, it was a hands-on experience that offered a glimpse into the world of medicine.
“Anatomical Society is an extension of the anatomy and physiology class itself and we try to do things that are beyond the scope of what an hour and a half of class gives us,” Ramamurthy said. “We try to engage students and to deepen their understanding by engaging in fun activities.”
Ramamurthy and Kolla’s shared passion for healthcare became the driving force behind transforming their club into what it is today.
“We incorporate at least one dissection each semester so people get an idea of what this club is about,” Kolla said. “We gather equipment from Mrs. Deinhammer, who is incredibly supportive as she supplies us with fetal pigs. The students are then free to explore inside the fetal pig themselves with no specific guidelines.”
As students start to wonder about their future, the anatomical society supports students by introducing them to the world of healthcare, offering valuable knowledge and inspiration to explore potential career paths.
“This club is a great starting point for people who don’t know what career path they’re planning to do,” Kolla said. “I hope students have a deeper understanding of what the medical field actually is because some are scared by the amount of years it takes, but the years are worth it if you are passionate about the field.”
Growing up in a community of accomplished individuals, Ramamurthy found herself drawn to healthcare. Medical professionals’ impact on people’s lives inspired her to further explore anatomy and physiology.
“The thought of healthcare issues was fascinating, saving a person’s life when they’re about to die is more complex than it seems,” Ramamurthy said. “When I was a kid, I loved playing with those doctor kits — they really sparked my interest in healthcare. Inspired by that childhood passion, I incorporated the same sense of curiosity and hands-on learning into the club.”
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