How to Get Shadowing Experience (and What to Do Once You’re There)
For students interested in BS/MD, medicine, dentistry, nursing, physical therapy, or other healthcare professions, shadowing is often one of the first opportunities to see what a career in healthcare actually looks like.
Yet many students aren’t sure how to find shadowing experiences or what they should do once they secure one. If you’ve ever wondered where to start, this guide will walk you through the process.
Why Is Shadowing Important?
Shadowing allows students to observe healthcare professionals in their daily work environment and gain a realistic understanding of the profession.
For students applying to highly selective programs such as BS/MD programs, shadowing demonstrates:
- Commitment to pursuing a career in healthcare
- Initiative in exploring the profession
- Understanding of the realities of patient care
- Exposure to healthcare settings and professional responsibilities
Most importantly, shadowing helps students determine whether medicine is truly the right fit for them. The goal isn’t simply to accumulate hours—it’s to gain meaningful insight into the profession.
Where Can Students Shadow?
Many students assume shadowing opportunities only exist in hospitals, but there are numerous settings where students can gain valuable experience.
Common shadowing locations include:
- Hospitals
- Physician offices
- Private practices
- Dental offices
- Physical therapy clinics
- Specialty practices
Remember, the value of shadowing often comes from observing patient-provider interactions, communication, advocacy, professionalism, and decision-making—not necessarily from observing a specific specialty.
How to Find Shadowing Opportunities
Start with Existing Connections
The easiest place to begin is often within your existing network.
Consider reaching out to:
- Family members who work in healthcare
- Friends of family members
- Your family physician
- Your pediatrician
- Your dentist
- Your orthodontist
- Your physical therapist
Many healthcare professionals are willing to support motivated students who demonstrate professionalism and genuine interest.
Reach Out to Local Practices
Don’t have personal connections? That’s okay.
Many students successfully obtain shadowing opportunities by contacting offices directly.
When reaching out:
- Call the office and inquire about shadowing opportunities.
- Be polite and professional.
- Offer to send your resume.
- Follow up with an email if requested.
- Be patient and respectful if opportunities are limited.
Persistence is important, but professionalism matters just as much.
Explore Hospital Programs
Many hospital systems offer volunteer or student observation programs.
Keep in mind:
- Applications are often submitted months in advance.
- Many programs have spring application deadlines.
- Requirements may include paperwork, immunization records, or orientation sessions.
If you’re interested in hospital-based shadowing, begin researching opportunities early.
Use LinkedIn Professionally
LinkedIn can be a valuable tool for students seeking healthcare experiences.
Search for physicians in your area and learn about their specialties and backgrounds.
When using LinkedIn:
- Reach out from your own account, not a parent’s account.
- Keep messages professional and concise.
- Clearly explain who you are and why you’re interested in shadowing.
Don’t Be Afraid to Get Creative
Many students focus exclusively on physicians, but shadowing other healthcare professionals can also be incredibly valuable.
Students often gain meaningful experiences by shadowing:
- Dentists
- Orthodontists
- Physical therapists
- Nurse practitioners
- Physician assistants
Admissions committees understand that high school students may not have access to every specialty. What matters most is demonstrating curiosity, engagement, and a commitment to learning about patient care.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When searching for opportunities, students should avoid:
- Having parents contact physicians on their behalf
- Sending social media messages to people they don’t know
- Repeatedly contacting offices after receiving no response
- Overstepping professional boundaries
There is a fine line between following up appropriately and becoming overly persistent. A professional follow-up is acceptable; excessive communication is not.
Preparing for Your First Shadowing Experience
Once you’ve secured an opportunity, preparation can help you feel more confident.
Before Your First Day
Reach out to the physician or coordinator and ask:
- Is there anything I should bring?
- Should I wear business attire or scrubs?
- Are there any forms I need to complete?
If you’re unsure what to wear, business casual is typically a safe choice.
Pack Smart
Bring:
- A small notebook
- A pen
- Water and snacks
- Any required paperwork
A notebook can help you remember interesting observations and questions without relying on your memory alone.
Learn the Basics
You do not need extensive medical knowledge.
However, spending a little time reading about common conditions within the specialty can help you feel more comfortable.
For example:
- Primary Care: hypertension, diabetes
- Dermatology: acne, eczema
- OB/GYN: prenatal care
- Ophthalmology: vision screenings and common eye conditions
Remember, no physician expects a high school student to know everything.
Making a Great Impression
On your first day:
- Introduce yourself confidently
- Be respectful to every staff member
- Stay engaged and attentive
- Observe professional communication
- Take notes when appropriate
One of the best ways to stand out is to demonstrate curiosity.
If a physician mentions a condition, treatment, or concept you’re unfamiliar with, write it down and research it later. If the opportunity arises, sharing what you learned can show initiative and a genuine interest in healthcare.
Final Thoughts
Shadowing isn’t about checking a box on a college application.
It’s about exploring healthcare, learning from professionals, and gaining a better understanding of what it means to care for patients.
Whether you’re shadowing a family physician, dentist, dermatologist, or physical therapist, every experience offers valuable lessons that can help shape your future career goals.
The earlier you start exploring opportunities and approaching them professionally, the more you’ll gain from the experience.
Listen to the full episode of How to Get Shadowing Experience (and What to Do Once You’re There).