Walking in Their Shadows : The Benefits of Clinical Shadowing
By : Claudia Morejon Have you ever gone to a grocery store and been offered a free sample of food or drink ? The nice thing about this is that you find out what it tastes like and whether you want to buy it . All from a free sample ! For many students , there is a way to get a taste of different careers through something called shadowing .
According to the Cambridge Dictionary ( n . d .), shadowing is the act of “ follow [ ing ] someone else while they are at work to learn about that person ’ s job .” If you are interested in healthcare but not sure which specialty might be the right fit for you , then shadowing will help you experience a day in the life of different professionals to see which you feel most drawn to . College programs also love seeing shadowing experiences because they show commitment and drive for a chosen field .
Deciding on a college major is an important decision and can be overwhelming for students . This may be one of the reasons why only about three of five incoming freshmen graduate within six years . Shadowing helps with this decision by providing a safe way for students to explore different careers and interests without committing to a new pathway . It can offer some relief and insight on what your interests may or may not be . Shadowing can last for a few hours , a couple of weeks , or even several months . It can even be a requirement for acceptance into some programs . Even with the time and commitment requirement , this is your moment to ask questions , to observe , to take notes , and ( if you are lucky ) to get some hands-on experience .
Shadowing is voluntary and unpaid . A professional is allowing you to tag along and see how their job functions . Being able to take time off from your busy schedule to shadow reveals to colleges that you possess the initiative to explore what you are interested in even further . Now , this does not mean you have definitely acquired a spot in the program of your choice , but it can display an attitude of enthusiasm and that you are seeking to find the right fit for you .
References
Cambridge Dictionary . ( n . d .). Shadowing . https :// dictionary . cambridge . org / us / dictionary / english / shadowing
Diagnostic
Medical Sonography
The benefits of shadowing are not theoretical – I am speaking from my own experience as well ! During my college spring break , I decided to visit my sister in Virginia . She is an echo cardiovascular sonographer , and I was able to shadow her for a few days . I was also able to observe a vascular sonographer and a cath lab nurse . Shadowing these hardworking professionals has put a spark in me to pursue a career in the medical field , where I can go and make a difference in the world , just like they ’ re doing . I knew the medical field was right for me , and where I wanted to be within it .
Further cementing this experience was my shadowing experience at Eastern Florida State College ( EFSC ). EFSC requires students interested in the sonography program to shadow and volunteer with the program prior to applying . I was able to be an extra body for the sonography students to scan , and I have to say that it was exciting to see my organs on the big screen . I have even been told my kidneys are beautiful ! Being able to scan was an incredible experience as well , and the students have encouraging instructors .
As I completed my prerequisites , I suspected that sonography would be right for me . After my experiences walking in the shadow of other sonographers , I knew it was right for me . Whether you are a student who is still unsure of your career path or simply looking for a positive experience prior to applying to an allied healthcare program , why not take a bite of that free sample ? You might find what you are craving in your own professional life .