3 answers
Hannah
Student
Grants, New Mexico
2
Questions
Asked
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Where should I start with job shadowing as a pre-med student?
Hi! I am going to be attending college in Phoenix this fall as a freshman. I'm a pre-med student majoring in Biology. I know it's a little early, but I know job shadowing is a very important part of the pre-med process, both for applying to medical school and for being certain that medicine is the right career path. Any tips on how to clinical shadow would be incredibly helpful as I am not sure where to begin. Can I contact hospitals in the area? Do I need to ask physicians directly or will hospitals connect me with physicians who are open to being shadowed?
Thank you and I appreciate any answers and information!
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3 answers
Astha Mishra
Medical Assistant
1
Answer
Overland Park, Kansas
Updated
Astha’s Answer
Hi! Great question! This is something I struggled with as an undergraduate as well. The most effective technique is to first find out if you have any personal connections through family or friends who would be interested in allowing you to shadow them. If you do not, that's okay! I would recommend looking up hospitals or clinics near you and researching any physicians you may be interested in shadowing. Once you do that, try to find their emails through the hospital/clinic website or online. If you're unable to do that call the hospital/clinic, state your name, and that you're a premed student looking to shadow the doctor of your choosing. Oftentimes they will then redirect you. Hopefull this helps!
Aisha Taylor
Mortgage Closing Specialist
403
Answers
Detroit, Michigan
Updated
Aisha’s Answer
Hi Hannah,
Starting job shadowing as a pre-med student is a great initiative! Here are some tips to help you get started:
1. **Research Hospitals and Clinics**: Begin by researching hospitals, clinics, and healthcare facilities in the Phoenix area. Look for facilities that offer opportunities for job shadowing or have programs specifically designed for pre-med students.
2. **Contact the Volunteer Services Department**: Reach out to the volunteer services department or the medical education office of hospitals and clinics. They can provide information on their job shadowing programs, application processes, and any requirements or restrictions.
3. **Network with Physicians**: Reach out to physicians directly through email or phone calls. Introduce yourself as a pre-med student interested in job shadowing and inquire about opportunities to observe their work. Be professional and respectful in your communication.
4. **Utilize College Resources**: Take advantage of resources provided by your college or university. Many colleges have career centers or pre-health advisors who can assist you in finding job shadowing opportunities, connecting with healthcare professionals, and navigating the process.
5. **Be Flexible and Persistent**: Be prepared for the possibility of facing challenges or rejections in your search for job shadowing opportunities. Not all physicians or facilities may be able to accommodate job shadowing requests, but don't be discouraged. Stay persistent and explore multiple avenues until you find suitable opportunities.
6. **Follow Hospital Protocols**: Once you secure a job shadowing opportunity, make sure to follow the hospital's protocols and guidelines. This may include completing required paperwork, adhering to dress codes, maintaining patient confidentiality, and respecting the instructions of the supervising physician or staff.
7. **Prepare Questions and Learn**: Make the most of your job shadowing experience by preparing questions in advance and actively observing and learning from the healthcare professionals you shadow. Take notes, ask for clarification when needed, and reflect on your experiences to gain insights into the medical field.
Remember to approach job shadowing with professionalism, enthusiasm, and a willingness to learn. It's a valuable opportunity to gain firsthand exposure to the healthcare environment and confirm your interest in pursuing a career in medicine. Good luck!
Starting job shadowing as a pre-med student is a great initiative! Here are some tips to help you get started:
1. **Research Hospitals and Clinics**: Begin by researching hospitals, clinics, and healthcare facilities in the Phoenix area. Look for facilities that offer opportunities for job shadowing or have programs specifically designed for pre-med students.
2. **Contact the Volunteer Services Department**: Reach out to the volunteer services department or the medical education office of hospitals and clinics. They can provide information on their job shadowing programs, application processes, and any requirements or restrictions.
3. **Network with Physicians**: Reach out to physicians directly through email or phone calls. Introduce yourself as a pre-med student interested in job shadowing and inquire about opportunities to observe their work. Be professional and respectful in your communication.
4. **Utilize College Resources**: Take advantage of resources provided by your college or university. Many colleges have career centers or pre-health advisors who can assist you in finding job shadowing opportunities, connecting with healthcare professionals, and navigating the process.
5. **Be Flexible and Persistent**: Be prepared for the possibility of facing challenges or rejections in your search for job shadowing opportunities. Not all physicians or facilities may be able to accommodate job shadowing requests, but don't be discouraged. Stay persistent and explore multiple avenues until you find suitable opportunities.
6. **Follow Hospital Protocols**: Once you secure a job shadowing opportunity, make sure to follow the hospital's protocols and guidelines. This may include completing required paperwork, adhering to dress codes, maintaining patient confidentiality, and respecting the instructions of the supervising physician or staff.
7. **Prepare Questions and Learn**: Make the most of your job shadowing experience by preparing questions in advance and actively observing and learning from the healthcare professionals you shadow. Take notes, ask for clarification when needed, and reflect on your experiences to gain insights into the medical field.
Remember to approach job shadowing with professionalism, enthusiasm, and a willingness to learn. It's a valuable opportunity to gain firsthand exposure to the healthcare environment and confirm your interest in pursuing a career in medicine. Good luck!
Karissa Helton
Medical School Admisions
72
Answers
Miami, Florida
Updated
Karissa’s Answer
Ask your pediatrician if you can shadow them. Let them know for how many hours/weeks and time of day you are available before contacting them. You will have to start by asking the office manager. Tell them you were a patient.