Day in the Life: Journey Through a Day at Mortuary College

Embarking on a journey in mortuary science is unlike any other educational path. Each day is a blend of rigorous academic study, hands-on practice, and deep emotional reflection. As students, we prepare not just for a career, but for a role that touches lives during their most vulnerable moments.

Early Start

The day might begin before the sun rises. The quiet of the early morning is a time to reflect and prepare mentally for the day ahead.

Timeliness and Attendance

Nashville traffic is not your friend – use Lombardi time!!
Deadlines are major for online schedules
Not attending is not optional for this curriculum

Dress Code

Students are required to be in JAGC dress code anytime they are on campus or on screen.

Anatomy Class

Anatomy class is one of the most challenging but crucial aspects of your education. We study the human body in incredible detail, which is essential for embalming and restorative art. Today’s focus might be on the circulatory system, understanding how blood flow impacts the preservation process, or the skeletal system, which is vital for reconstructive efforts.

Clinicals and Restorative Art

After anatomy, it’s time for hands-on coursework. This is where theory meets practice. We learn everything from basic embalming techniques to more complex restorative art. The lab is a place of intense concentration; every motion must be precise, and every step must follow protocol. Clinicals are where we hone the skills that will become second nature in our careers.

Study Session

It’s common to find a group gathered around a table with textbooks open, quizzing each other on funeral service law or discussing the ethical implications of different embalming techniques. The camaraderie among students is strong; we rely on each other for support, understanding that this field requires both technical expertise and emotional resilience.

Funeral Directing and Management Class

These sessions cover everything from planning a funeral service to managing a funeral home. Today, we might discuss how to coordinate with grieving families, plan memorial services, or handle the business aspects of running a funeral home. It’s a mix of compassion and professionalism, learning how to balance the emotional needs of clients with the logistical demands of the business.

Grief Counseling and Ethics

One of the most important classes in our curriculum is grief counseling and ethics. This course teaches us how to support families during their most difficult times while maintaining professional boundaries. Role-playing exercises help us prepare for real-life scenarios where our empathy and ethical decision-making skills will be tested. We discuss real cases, analyzing the best approaches to helping grieving individuals and families navigate their loss.

Reflecting and Unwinding

Evenings are a time to unwind and reflect on the day. Maybe spend some time reviewing notes, but also make sure to relax and recharge. Whether it’s watching a favorite show, reading a book, or simply enjoying some quiet time, it’s important to take care of myself mentally and emotionally.

Lights Out

Tomorrow is another day of learning, growing, and preparing for a career that, while challenging, offers the opportunity to make a real difference in people’s lives.

Good Enough is Not Good Enough – Bring Excellence!

John A. Gupton College strives for excellence, so being your “best self” is important in the overall goal of the institution.

John A. Gupton - Founded in 1946 – Nashville, Tennessee

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