Virtual job shadowing opportunities for high schoolers?

I'm really interested in learning more about different careers and I heard that virtual job shadowing is a thing. Are there any free programs for high school students to get insights into various professions remotely?

Yes, there are quite a few virtual job shadowing opportunities available for high school students, many of which are indeed free.

One of the most popular in recent years has been Nepris, which connects students with industry professionals across a wide range of careers and industries. You can interact with professionals in real-time through live online chats or view recorded sessions at your own pace.

Similarly, there's CareerVillage, an online platform where students can ask questions directly to professionals in the fields they aspire to enter. It's more of a Q&A style forum, but it can give you a lot of insight into different careers.

Junior Achievement, a widely known and respected organization focused on preparing young people for the workforce, also offers free job shadowing opportunities including JA Inspire Virtual, their virtual career fair.

Additionally, a lot of companies and organizations are offering virtual internship and job shadowing opportunities, especially due to the transition to remote work. You might want to check out sites like Internships.com or WayUp, which have filtered searches for remote internships. Although not the same as job-shadowing per se, these internship experiences can give you a direct perspective on the workings of different industries.

Lastly, even LinkedIn can be a useful tool in your hunt for virtual job shadowing. You could try reaching out to professionals in the industries you're interested in for informational interviews.

Remember, the best job shadowing program is the one that aligns with your interests and career goals. So, explore a few different options before settling on one. Enjoy your exploration!