Now that Block 1 is out of the way, you can set aside the butterflies of
the exam format and focus on the internal organs. What is comforting is
that the internal organs are likely somewhat familiar; from a course
taken as an undergrad or just through discussions of every day living.
My advice for block 2 are these:
1. If you haven't already done so, start making lots of friends at other
tables. There is a great degree of variation in internal structures,
for example, the mesenteric arteries branching in each person is
slightly different. Not only will looking at other bodies help you for
the test, but it allows you to teach your peers and visa versa.
2. Start looking at the cross sections early. There are a lot more
during block 2 than there were in block 1. Visualize what level of the
body you are at to distinguish which lumens belong to which organ.
3. Embryology is extremely important in block 2. You must know what
organs came from what part of the primitive gut. They love to test you
on these.
4. Dr. Dlugos and Dr. Severin are amazing instructors, but they are even
better in the lab. Don't be shy about making appointments with them via
email requesting they go over certain parts of the anatomy with you in
lab. Their time is busy, so be mindful and respectful when asking, but
even when you may know everything, when they explain it on a cadaver,
you really retain it and appreciate the human anatomy.
5. Always volunteer to teach your friends what you've dissected. There
is no better learning tool than by teaching. In return, they will
reciprocate the gesture and it is a win-win for all involved.
Good luck on Block 2!!!
