What is Job Shadowing?

Job shadowing is an essential part of exploring a career in health care. It gives students the opportunity to observe professionals in their daily work, gain insight into different health professions, and determine whether a career is a good fit for their interests and goals. Shadowing experiences can take place in a variety of settings, including hospitals, rehabilitation centers, private clinics, schools, and many other healthcare environments.

Please read the information in the tabs below carefully and follow all dress code guidelines, etiquette tips, and procedures. Health care professionals are generously volunteering their time to mentor students, so please be respectful, professional, and appreciative throughout your experience.

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Before the Experience
Find a location, reach out to the contact, research the organization, prep for the day, and prepare questions.
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During the Experience
Arrive early, be respectful and attentive, and ask thoughtful questions.
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After the Experience
Take time to reflect on what you learned and send a thank you note detailing key takeaways.
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Questions?
Reach out to Julie at calahanj@unk.edu for suggestions and contact information.

Before the Experience

This step requires the most effort since this involves finding a health professional, hospital or clinic where you can shadow.

During the Experience

This step occurs the day of the shadowing opportunity. This includes arriving at the location, meeting with the health professional and following this person around for the scheduled time. This may be a first-time experience so there may be the feeling of nervousness and not knowing what to expect. Being prepared helps get the most out of the experience. This includes preparing questions to learn more about the health career and asking the scheduler beforehand what the day will look like.

  • Arrive 10-15 minutes early to sign paperwork.
  • Be respect and friendly.
  • Listen attentively and speak clearly.
  • Ask questions when appropriate.
  • Treat this opportunity as a privilege. Give everyone you meet your full attention, make eye contact, smile and ask thoughtful questions.
  • Do not use your cell phone during the experience.
  • Take notes if able and appropriate: Documentation log

After the Experience

Lastly, the reflection step takes place after the shadowing experience when a student takes time to look back at what they observed and learned. This process helps students connect their observations to their own career goals, identify areas of interest, and determine whether the profession is a good fit.

Other Helpful Information

You may receive one credit hour for your 36-40 hour shadowing experience by registering for HSCI 125 Orientation classes. Specific HSCI 125 sections exist for different professions. The course can be repeated in subsequent semesters for additional credit if another 36-40 hours of shadowing is completed.

For more information or to find out how to register for the course, reach out to Julie Calahan in Health Sciences at calahanj@unk.edu or call 308-865-8884.

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