The remarkable variation in superficial veins of the neck challenges anatomy students during cadaveric exploration. Despite frequently serving as cannulation sites, conduits for catheter placement, grafts following carotid endarterectomy, and a visual representation of central venous pressure, the jugular venous network and its variations are not well elucidated. A lack of health care provider awareness of venous variation may increase risk of clinical complications including ecchymosis, necrosis, and increased intraoperative bleeding. This study integrates an exploration of superficial venous variation in the necks of cadaveric specimens with a simple living anatomy exercise for anatomy students, aimed to shed light on anatomical variation and the typical venous patterns students may encounter in lab and clinically. Cadaveric dissections were completed on twenty four specimens to identify common variations from the textbook venous pattern of the neck and 3D renderings were created to help students better visualize anomalies. Next, students were instructed to perform the Valsalva maneuver to distend venous structures in the neck for visualization; photographs were taken to demonstrate the range of visible structures and patterns in living subjects. Four patterns were identified via cadaveric exploration and illustrated via three-dimensional (3D) renderings, and subject photographs were used to enhance learning by engaging students in the prediction of underlying structures. This activity deepened students' appreciation for anatomical variation and promoted awareness needed for pre-interventional planning.