Original contributed post by: Mahlek Pothemont ’16
On the fence about pursuing a job shadow experience? Check out these common myths (and reality checks) regarding experiential education opportunities like Job Shadowing, below:
- “Job shadows are just short internships that requires labor for no compensation.”
- False, job shadowing is an opportunity for students to spend a day beside a professional in their respective field of interests. This experience only requires you to enter the program with an open mind to learn and explore career paths that you can potentially see yourself in. These opportunities are mainly set aside for students to gain that brief but rare experience on the site, while establishing professional networks for the future. Click here for more info about Davidson Job Shadowing program.
- “I can’t possibly benefit from a program that only last a day.”
- Job shadows afford students the opportunity to get access to places only professionals can access daily. Although the experience lasts only for a day the overall long term impact of your job shadow can only be realized through proper networking practices. A couple of tips on networking can be found here.
- “There’s only a few hosts looking for students so the opportunities are few and far between. There’s no point in applying right?”
- Also false, there are over 200 job shadow hosts sign up for the program every year, with over 100 students participating in 150+ job shadows. The opportunities are plentiful and coming in almost daily. Take the chance to apply to multiple opportunities that interest you in order to maximize your choices.
- “These job shadows are nowhere near where I live and I know nobody in these cities. Davidson doesn’t provide any type of help beyond the application.”
- Thankfully, this is untrue as well. The Center for Career Development offers an expense reimbursement program set in place for any student who is accepted by the Job Shadow participate. These funds are specially designed to cover costs of travel and lodging. For more info on reimbursement click here.
- “My resume doesn’t matter since it’s just a job shadow and not an actual internship or job.”
- Definitely a myth. Your resume is one of the most pivotal tools you will use in your time at Davidson. This document serves a “highlight reel” of your accomplishments and success over the past few years and is integral in the job shadow application process. The first step in the application process is to have your resume reviewed and approved by the Center for Career Development.(Tip: No appointment is required for this review and approval. Just come anytime in during walk-in hours with a copy of your resume)