Over 100 students completed more than 150 job shadowing experiences this December and January as part of Davidson’s second annual Winter Break Job Shadowing Program. Through observation and conversation, these students had the opportunity to learn more about professions, receive career-related advice, and reflect on the ways in which their liberal arts education is preparing them for life after Davidson.
Some students shadowed hosts working at big-name organizations and corporations like Google in Mountain View, CA; the EPA in both DC and Research Triangle Park; CNN in Atlanta; and the Metropolitan Museum of Art in NYC. Others shadowed physicians and lawyers or experienced a day in the life of an alum working for a start-up or other small business.
Shadowing hosts made the days as full and interactive as possible, including resume reviews and conversations about how the liberal arts are relevant to today’s jobs. Students appreciated the opportunity to talk with hosts on a personal level and to get advice about the job market in various fields. Christopher Wood ‘16, who shadowed Elias Kruger ‘02 at Wells Fargo in Charlotte, called the experience “invigorating” and one that has inspired him to seek out additional career development opportunities through Davidson.
Hosts, meanwhile, loved the opportunity to engage with current students without having to travel. Jim Shepherd ‘74, a social worker with the Christiana Care Kent Wellness Clinic in Smyrna, DE, shared this feedback about his student shadower, Becca: “It was a pleasure having her; she has all the qualities that will ensure success for her in the future. I trust and hope her day with me at the Christiana Care Kent Wellness Clinic broadened her life experience to some degree and will allow her to continue her search for more knowledge. I appreciate being allowed to host her!”
Thanks to all of the hosts that made the second year of this program so successful. All alumni and parents will be welcome to register for next year’s program starting in October 2013. Questions can be directed to Ashley Neff, Assistant Director for Internships, at asneff@davidson.edu or 804-794-2678.
I can do something better by observing someone doing it than reading how to do it from a book. I believe the shadowing has and will continue to be a great experience for Students. Thanks to Davidson for this program.