how do i start a job shadow?

[dr1989]

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im getting ready to start my bs for biology and within the next 3 years i will be applyin to med school. with that said-ive been told to really emphasize on the whole ec, volunteer, intern, and job shadow thing.

so how can i start a job shadow for a doc? should i just go to like my md and tell him i would like to job shadow-or is there like a pre-req? i know hospitals have HUGE waiting listings for volunteers (mine was a 1 year wait) so how does it work out?

and for those of you already in school-how did you manage to pull of going to school, job shadowing, and possibly working to support yourselves at the same time? did it have a negative outcome on your studies or did you just do your best? people are already tellin me that ill pretty much be in a hole for the next 7 years-but im ready for it!😀

still-i would really like to know ur experience firsthand🙂

 

[TexasPhysician]

Job Shadowing: Good pre-med schools usually have a list of doctors that have already agreed to having students. Check your pre-med department/club. My undergrad had about 15 docs in all different specialties and 2 ER's. You can also ask docs that are family friends, your PCP, etc.

Most students don't work full-time in undergrad. If you do, my hat is off to you. I had a part-time job, and had plenty of time for other things.

 

[mtnman12]

I talked to a nurse I know who set me up with some shadowing. Its helps if you can find somebody to connect you, because they work with the doctors and know if they'll have qualities that are good to shadow. Usually after you've followed around a few docs, you'll find someone you really like and get a longer term shadowing experience.

Like you said, you can also just go ask your family physician, or call an office and just see. I agree about talking to your pre-med adviser and maybe they can set you up with somebody.

There are lots of other posts you can look at about this also. Its great you're getting such a head start, but remember you don't need 20 hours of shadowing a week for you to look good. Just do some shadowing when you have free time and will enjoy it, I tried to do it at least once a semester and then more in the summer. Its all about balance...