When I first became an undergraduate teaching assistant for anatomy and physiology, I saw it as a way to reinforce my own knowledge while helping others grasp complex material. At the time, I didn’t realize how much that experience would shape my approach to nursing. Standing in front of students, breaking down intricate concepts, and answering their questions turned out to be one of the best forms of preparation for becoming a bedside nurse. Teaching helped me to develop a deeper understanding of human anatomy, refine my communication skills, and build confidence—qualities that have been invaluable in my transition to clinical practice.
Developing a Deeper Understanding of Anatomy and Physiology
One of the biggest benefits of being a teaching assistant was the opportunity to truly master the subject matter. As a student, it’s easy to memorize facts for exams, but teaching required me to go beyond surface-level knowledge. Students would ask questions that challenged me to think critically and explain concepts in different ways. If I didn’t fully understand something, I had to dig deeper. I always prioritized teaching for understanding- not just teaching towards a test.
That depth of knowledge has been incredibly useful in my nursing career. When I assess a patient or interpret lab results, I don’t just see numbers or symptoms—I see the physiological processes behind them. For example, instead of just noting a patient’s low blood pressure, I instinctively think about the underlying mechanisms: Is it a fluid deficit? A cardiac issue? A neurological problem? That analytical mindset helps me make better clinical decisions and advocate for my patients more effectively.
Enhancing Communication and Patient Education
Teaching taught me that knowing something isn’t enough—you have to be able to explain it clearly and in a way that makes sense to others. In the classroom, I worked with students who had different learning styles and levels of understanding. Some needed visual aids, others benefited from analogies, and some required hands-on examples. That experience made me a better communicator, a skill that has carried over directly into patient care.
As a nurse, I spend a significant amount of time educating patients and their families. Whether I’m explaining a medication, discussing a procedure, or answering concerns, I have to tailor my explanations to each individual. Some patients want detailed scientific answers, while others just want enough information to make an informed decision (although I leave informed consents to the physicians). Because of my teaching background, I’m comfortable adapting my approach to meet their needs. That ability builds trust and empowers patients to take an active role in their care.
Building Confidence and Leadership Skills
Before becoming a teaching assistant, I wasn’t 100 percent confident in my ability to speak up or take charge in a group setting. Teaching got me out of my comfort zone. I had to project confidence even when I felt unsure. I had to manage a classroom, keep students engaged, and handle unexpected questions. Over time, I became more comfortable with leadership and keeping calm under pressure.
That confidence has been crucial as a new nurse. In a hospital setting, situations can change rapidly, and nurses have to be able to make quick decisions, speak up for their patients, and work collaboratively with physicians and other healthcare providers. When I first started, I was nervous about calling a physician or suggesting a course of action, even when I knew it was in my patients’ best interest. I found that presenting patient information at rounds felt very familiar- I was explaining the condition of my patient to a group of people who didn’t know much about the person I was caring for, so we could make shared treatment decisions. My teaching background helped me trust my knowledge and advocate for my patients with confidence.
Strengthening Problem-Solving Abilities
Teaching wasn’t just about delivering information—it was also about helping students work through problems. I had to anticipate areas where they might struggle and guide them toward solutions. That problem-solving mindset has been invaluable in nursing, where no two patients are the same and critical thinking is essential.
Many times in my trauma externship, I had patients with symptoms that didn’t quite fit a textbook diagnosis. Instead of just following protocol, I took a step back, thought about the underlying physiology, and collaborated with my team to piece together the puzzle. The ability to think critically and adapt to unique situations is something I credit to my time as a teaching assistant.
The Connection Between Teaching and Nursing
Looking back, I can see how teaching prepared me in ways I didn’t expect. Nursing isn’t just about checking off your shift tasks—it’s about understanding the human body and the person therein, communicating effectively, making quick decisions, and educating patients. My experience as an anatomy and physiology TA gave me a strong foundation in all of these areas.
For anyone in nursing school considering a teaching assistant role, I highly recommend it. It’s not just a way to solidify your knowledge—it’s an opportunity to build skills that will serve you for the rest of your career. The transition from student to nurse is challenging, but having that background in teaching made me feel more prepared, confident, and capable for my new role. Teaching and nursing go hand in hand, and I’m grateful that I had the chance to do both.