How can a high school student find a medical professional to job shadow to explore careers.

Hello Johan,

You may also want to reach out to your guidance counselor to see if your counselor can connect you with any professionals in the field. You can also look into volunteering at a local hospital which is a great way to learn more about how the healthcare system works and a great opportunity to network and meet medical professionals.

I would find 10 doctors in your local area and go their office and ask if they would allow you to shadow them without compensation until one says yes. Try to schedule yourself to be onsite during lunch hour as that is the only slow time in most Doctors offices. Dress professionally and rehears exactly what you are going to request of them. Keep it short but detailed and express your desire to work in the field. You want to be able to show confidence but not over confidence. When you are given the opportunity try to be invisible and out of the way. Most Doctors will not want you to interact with the patient or ask questions when the Dr. is with the patient. Another alternative is to ask a local Medical College if they have something a High School student can attend to determine if that is your calling. Finally there are hundreds of "specialties" in the medical field, everything from Pediatrics to Podiatry. If you have a leaning towards a particular specialty then start there, if not start with a family practice.