How should I go about shadowing a dermatologist?

[confused1234]

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... or any doctor for that matter? I have no clinical experience or anything like that. There's a huge dermatology group in my town and I would kill to maybe intern there or volunteer or whatever I have to do as long as I'm in the building observing or working for someone. Not only is it extremely interesting to me, but I really need stuff like that on my record, not to mention the fact that they would probably write great lors for me if everything were to go as I hope. Any advice would be GREATLY appreciated.

 

[gujuDoc]

... or any doctor for that matter? I have no clinical experience or anything like that. There's a huge dermatology group in my town and I would kill to maybe intern there or volunteer or whatever I have to do as long as I'm in the building observing or working for someone. Not only is it extremely interesting to me, but I really need stuff like that on my record, not to mention the fact that they would probably write great lors for me if everything were to go as I hope. Any advice would be GREATLY appreciated.

On the subject of shadowing:

If they have emails send them polite emails requesting to shadow them and explaining that you are premed, etc. etc.

If you cannot get through with them and have a med school close by then email faculty at the nearest med school. Otherwise try family docs or friends that are docs.

On the subject of clinical experience: You need to volunteer or work in the medical field and not substitute shadowing for actual work or volunteer experience.

 

[Vox Animo]

call them and ask to shadow. If you are just starting shadowing, i was suggest calling FPs and peds to starts. You get to see a little of everything. Then move up and start shadowing specialists. The docs you shadow will usually hook you up with other doctors.

 

[LizzyM]

not to mention the fact that they would probably write great lors for me if everything were to go as I hope.

Don't count on great LORs from docs whom you have shadowed. Most can not speak of your academic ability or your work ethic or your leadership skills. At best, they tend to note that you were prompt, well groomed, inquisitive, and bright.

Not saying you shouldn't shadow but don't count on those docs for the LORs that really impress the adcom.