Shadowing Family Members?

[twick853]

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Just wondering if it's frowned upon to shadow family members? I do have plans to shadow a few different optometrists, however, I am just wondering how acceptable it would be if the majority of my shadowing hours came from shadowing a family member.

For a little context, my sister has been practicing for several years, and I genuinely enjoy spending my time shadowing her at her work (she obviously still takes her work very seriously even when I am there). I wanted to spend the bulk of my summer getting as many hours as I can that way since I am not getting much optometry experience aside from shadowing, but I am wondering if all those hours are going to "count".

If anyone has any experience with this I would appreciate the feedback. 🙂

 

[London22]

I believe this would be perfectly fine. They do ask on your applications if you are related or close friends to any optometrists. I think they just do this as standard protocol for looking at your letters of recommendations. Since you are shadowing multiple optometrists it shows you have a passion and great exposure. I'm sure explaining how you were inspired by your sister would look good in part of your main application essay as well!

The only thing I can think of is it might be best is if you received your optometrist portion of your LORs from a non-relative. Other than that I say go for it! 🙂 It might be worth it to give one of your top schools a quick call and ask them what they think as well.