Job Shadowing Guide

Introduction: The Benefits of Shadowing

Shadowing healthcare professionals is an invaluable way to gain insight into different medical careers, understand daily responsibilities, and confirm your interest in a field. It provides a realistic perspective on patient interactions, work environments, and the skills necessary for success. Many professional schools expect applicants to have shadowing experience, as it demonstrates initiative and commitment to the field.

Professional Behavior and Etiquette

Professionalism is key when shadowing. You represent yourself, your institution, and future applicants. Always be respectful, engaged, and courteous. Avoid using your phone, respect patient confidentiality, and adhere to dress codes and practice policies. A positive and professional impression may even lead to future opportunities, mentorship, or letters of recommendation.

Finding Shadowing Opportunities

Networking

  • Contact your own healthcare providers or friends and family who work in healthcare.
  • Reach out to alumni or guest speakers from your college or professional schools.
  • Explore different settings: hospitals, private practices, community health centers, clinics, hospice centers.
  • Use online search tools to find organizations in your area.
  • Cold call or email potential professionals to inquire about shadowing.
  • Private practices (e.g., dental, OT, PT, veterinary) may be easier to access than large hospitals.
  • Be patient—healthcare professionals are often busy, and it may take time for them to respond.
  • Follow up persistently if necessary. If you don’t receive a response, email again after a couple of weeks and then follow up with a phone call a few days later. This combination can help you secure an opportunity.

Cold Calling Tips

  1. Introduce yourself: “Hi, my name is [Your Name], and I’m a pre-health student at [Your College].”
  2. State your purpose: “I’m interested in shadowing a [Profession] to learn more about the field.”
  3. Ask for availability: “Would it be possible to set up a time to observe?”

Sample Shadowing Email

Subject: Shadowing Inquiry (Pre-[Program] Student)

Good Morning [Professional’s Name],

My name is [Your Name], and I’m a [Freshman/Sophomore/etc.] at [Your University] studying [Your Major] with a pre-[Dent/Med/etc.] concentration. I came across your office on [Platform].

I was wondering if you allow pre-health students to shadow at your practice? If so, what is the best way to set up a shadowing session?

Thank you for your time, and I look forward to hearing from you!

Best, [Your Name]

Preparing for the Shadowing Experience

Before You Go:

  • Confirm date, time, location, check-in procedures, and dress code.
  • Get directions and a contact number in case you’re lost or delayed.
  • Bring a small notebook to take notes discreetly.
  • Be on time!

Dress Code:

  • Business casual unless instructed otherwise.
  • Avoid open-toed shoes, jeans, excessive jewelry, and heavy perfume/cologne.
  • Scrubs may be acceptable at some healthcare practices but always confirm with the coordinator beforehand if they do not explicitly state the dress code.

Day of Shadowing: What to Expect & Best Practices

What to Expect:

  • You will primarily observe the healthcare professional throughout their day.
  • Some patients may decline to have a student present—this is normal.
  • You might feel awkward or out of place at times—ignore it and stay engaged!

Professional Behavior Guidelines:

  • Always introduce yourself formally.
  • Address professionals as Dr., Mr., Ms., or Mrs..
  • Speak clearly and confidently.
  • Pay attention and avoid distractions (no phones!).
  • Take notes discreetly without missing key interactions.
  • Stand, don’t sit unless invited.
  • Keep hands out of pockets, and avoid fidgeting.
  • Smile and stay engaged!

Questions to Ask While Shadowing:

  • How did you become interested in this field?
  • What do you enjoy most/least about your job?
  • What skills are essential for success in this profession?
  • What does a typical workday look like?
  • What advice do you have for applying to professional schools?
  • If you could do it over, would you choose this career again?
  • How do you stay current in your field?

Legal & Ethical Considerations

  • HIPAA & Patient Privacy: Do NOT share any patient information outside of your experience.
  • Some institutions require a confidentiality agreement—be prepared to sign one.

After the Shadowing Experience

Reflection & Follow-Up:

  • Assess what you liked and disliked about the profession:
    • Work schedule, patient interaction, stress level, responsibilities, work environment.
  • Send a thank-you email or note within a week:
    • Address it formally: “Dear Dr. Smith,” not “Hey Dr. Smith.”
    • Express gratitude for their time and insights.
    • Sign with your first and last name.
  • Network further:
    • Ask if they know colleagues in other specialties you could shadow.
    • Connect with them on LinkedIn with a brief thank-you message.
    • Join professional organizations related to the field.

Maximizing Your Experience:

  • Keep a shadowing log (dates, location, key takeaways).
  • Research medical terms and diagnoses you observed.
  • Write down meaningful patient encounters—these can help with future applications.
  • Consider virtual shadowing for additional exposure.

Adding Shadowing Experience to Your Resume

Shadowing experience is a valuable addition to your resume, showcasing your exposure to the field and commitment to learning. When listing shadowing, include the professional’s name, title, practice location, and the dates you observed. If space allows, add a brief description highlighting key takeaways and skills gained.

Resume Format Example:

Shadowing Experience
Dr. Jane Smith, M.D. – Internal Medicine
 XYZ Medical Center, City, State | May–August 2024

  • Observed patient consultations, diagnosis discussions, and treatment planning.
  • Gained insight into physician-patient communication and ethical considerations.
  • Learned about medical documentation and interdisciplinary collaboration.

If you have multiple shadowing experiences, you can group them under a “Clinical Experience” or “Healthcare Observation” section to keep your resume organized. Be concise and focus on relevant skills and knowledge gained.

Helpful Resources

This guide provides everything you need to find, prepare for, and reflect on a successful shadowing experience. Now go out and start building connections in your field!

This guide was created using a combination of information compiled from reputable healthcare and academic websites, personal experience, and ChatGPT for content structuring and refinement. Adapted from sources such as Shadowing a Health Professional (University of Minnesota), The Progressive Apprentice, and Etiquette and Tips for Shadowing (UT Health San Antonio)

Job Shadowing Resource Guide