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Duke University
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Unweighted GPA: 3.7
1.0
4.0
SAT: 720 math
200
800
| 800 verbal
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800

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Low accuracy (4 of 18 factors)

Shadowing a Physician: How Can I Set That Up?

Hey everyone! I'm really interested in medicine and I heard shadowing a physician can be a great way to figure out if it's the right path for me. How do you guys approach physicians for shadowing opportunities? Any guidance would be greatly appreciated!

11 months ago

Hey there! Shadowing a physician is indeed a fantastic way to gain exposure to the medical field and understand whether it's the right career choice for you. Here are some steps you can follow to set up a shadowing experience:

1. Identify your medical interests: Make a list of medical specialties that intrigue you, as this will help you zero in on the types of physicians you'd like to shadow.

2. Reach out to contacts: If you have any family members or friends in the medical field, they can be an excellent starting point. They might know physicians who are open to providing shadowing opportunities or connect you with others who can help.

3. Speak with your school's guidance counselor or career center: They might have partnerships with local hospitals or medical facilities and can put you in touch with potential shadowing opportunities.

4. Contact local hospitals and clinics: Draft a professional and polite email or call their offices, expressing your interest in shadowing a physician. Be sure to highlight your passion for medicine and your eagerness to learn.

5. Utilize online platforms: Websites like LinkedIn can be useful for networking and finding physicians in your area. Send them a concise message explaining your goals and asking if they're open to providing shadowing experiences.

As a warning, it can be hard for high schoolers to shadow since many college and medical school students are also vying for the same positions. However, don't be discouraged! Here are a few strategies to follow:

1. Prioritize outpatient settings: Outpatient clinics might be more receptive to shadowing requests, as these environments pose lower risks compared to hospitals and inpatient facilities.

2. Virtual shadowing: Some physicians or organizations have started offering online shadowing opportunities, including webinars and virtual interactions. Reaching out to such providers may increase your chances of finding an opportunity.

3. Be patient and persistent: Keep networking and contacting physicians, recognizing that some might not currently accommodate shadowing experiences. Stay persistent in your search and consider broadening the scope of the specialties you're interested in, as you might find opportunities in areas you hadn't previously considered.

Good luck and have a great shadowing experience!

11 months ago

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