Many first-year students interested in healthcare careers do not succeed in Anatomy and Physiology I (A&PI), which they take in their first semester. These first-year students withdraw from the course or the institution, or their final grade may be below the identified threshold for progressing in their programs. A&PI has become a gatekeeper course, preventing students from entering careers where they are sorely needed. Southern Vermont College (SVC) launched a pilot A&PI course designed for vulnerable first-year students. SVC identified first-year students deemed academically at risk, and they were offered an opportunity to enroll in a re-envisioned A&PI course that was stretched over two semesters. There have been positive trend indicators on all the major items being measured and, importantly, some positive, unintended benefits. (Contains 6 notes.)