Story by: Sydney Gaines

Dr. Jagwinder Singh, assistant professor of human anatomy and physiology, is the epitome of a lifelong learner. With numerous degrees and professional certificates from nationally and internationally renowned institutions, Dr. Singh’s vast learning experiences have shaped how he leads his classroom, and more importantly, how he advises and supports his students.

But for Dr. Singh, teaching was never a path he imagined taking.

“Teaching happened by accident for me,” he says. “I found myself in this role at the recommendation of a friend. He thought that all of my experience in the field could be valuable in an academic setting. So, I took his advice and gave it a try.”

And today, Dr. Singh teaches anatomy and physiology courses at Germanna and finds it rewarding in ways he never anticipated.

It’s incredibly satisfying to help students understand the complexities of human anatomy and physiology. Giving my students that strong foundation in understanding the human body is fulfilling for me because I know they’ll take that information and use it to be successful in healthcare or related fields.
Dr. Jagwinder Singh
|
Germanna Professor

Dr. Singh recalls taking an interest in anatomy and physiology very early on. He was fascinated by the human body and its intricate systems, finding how the body functioned captivating. This curiosity led to his exploration of the topic, beginning his educational journey in medical studies.

Dr. Singh earned his Doctor of Medicine from an overseas medical college, giving him the opportunity to complete his rotations abroad.

“I was able to do my rotations in London, England, which exposed me to a different healthcare system and different practices. This experience broadened my perspective and enhanced my adaptability.”

Dr. Singh also obtained a specialized Master of Business Administration in healthcare from the George Washington School of Business, along with various other certificates that have allowed him to stay current and up to date on modern practices and the latest advancements in the field.

He received his most recent certificate from Harvard Medical School, where he studied strokes and other neurological conditions. And he had the opportunity to partake in cutting-edge research and innovation at the National Institute of Health in Bethesda, Maryland, where he received exposure to various medical conditions.

“The more passionate I became about the subject matter, the more I wanted to learn about it,” Dr. Singh says.

This continuous learning journey has allowed Dr. Singh to experience many different educators and observe different styles of teaching, further enhancing his ability to successfully educate the next generation of health sciences professionals.

“My educational journey has allowed me to deepen my understanding and knowledge of anatomy and physiology,” he says. “I believe that the different environments in which I learned, combined with all of my unique learning experiences, have shaped me into a well-rounded and dynamic professor.”

And though he could’ve put his vast experience to use at a traditional four-year institution, Dr. Singh chose to teach at the community college level.

“You get to see a more diverse group of students at community colleges,” he says. “There are also smaller class sizes, so the environment is more close-knit. At Germanna, I’m able to personalize my support and make a meaningful impact on each of my students.”

However, what has kept Dr. Singh firmly rooted at Germanna goes beyond those initial attractions.

The synergy between Dr. Singh 's educational philosophy and the College's mission creates a powerful environment for learning and growth. “The College leadership's forward-thinking approach allows us the stage to foster growth in the students and the community at large. Being part of an institution where the leadership prioritizes community growth, faculty development, and student success aligns perfectly with my own values and aspirations as an educator," he adds. "It's this alignment that makes me excited to come to work every day.”

Dr. Singh shown teaching one of his anatomy and physiology courses on the first day of classes for the fall 2024 semester
Dr. Singh shown teaching one of his anatomy and physiology courses on the first day of classes for the fall 2024 semester

As he heads into his third year of teaching at Germanna, Dr. Singh is excited about the future of anatomy and physiology education and plans to continue incorporating some of the field’s latest advancements in his classroom instruction.

“I give students the opportunity to use some of these new technologies in my classes because it keeps them engaged and gives them relevant experience that they can take with them when they enter the workforce.”

And when his students finish his class and move on to the next step in their academic journeys, Dr. Singh leaves them with one piece of advice.

I tell my students that if you’re going to think, why not think BIG. The 'B' stands for books, emphasizing the importance of dedicated study and comprehension of material. 'I' represents interactions, encouraging students to engage with peers, mentors, and faculty who inspire and support them. And the 'G' symbolizes goal setting, underscoring the significance of establishing clear, achievable objectives that guide their learning journey and fuel their motivation.
Dr. Jagwinder Singh
|
Germanna Professor

Dr. Singh's unexpected journey into teaching has blossomed into a calling. His story serves as a testament to the transformative power of education and the profound impact a dedicated teacher can have on shaping the future of healthcare professionals. Moreover, his choice to teach at Germanna underscores the importance of visionary leadership in educational institutions, and how it can attract top talent committed to community advancement and student success.

Submitted by Anonymous student (not verified) on Wed, 10/02/2024 - 20:49 Permalink

Dr. Singh has a special ability to break down complex concepts in anatomy and physiology, making them not only understandable but also memorable. His passion for the subject is evident, and it inspires all of us to engage deeply with the material.

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