Duke Shadowing Opportunities

Hey everyone! I heard that Duke has some amazing shadowing opportunities for pre-med students. Can anyone provide some information on how to get involved and what kind of experiences you can gain from participating in these opportunities?

Hey! Duke University does indeed offer some fantastic shadowing opportunities for pre-med students. One of these is the Medical Center Pre-Med Shadowing Program. It matches undergraduate pre-med students with physicians at Duke University Hospital, allowing students to observe and learn from various medical practitioners such as surgeons, internists, and pediatricians.

To participate in this program, you'll typically need to be a current Duke undergraduate pre-med student and attend an orientation session which covers the application process, observation guidelines, and HIPAA training. After completing the necessary steps, you'll be matched with a physician whom you can shadow for a designated number of hours.

Many students find shadowing at Duke to be an invaluable experience, as it provides firsthand insight into the daily routines and responsibilities of a physician. It can give you a better understanding of different medical specialties, help you develop your bedside manner, and allow you to see how doctors interact with patients and other healthcare professionals. Additionally, shadowing may solidify your interest in pursuing a career in medicine and can be a valuable experience to discuss in future medical school interviews.

In addition to the Medical Center Pre-Med Shadowing Program, there are other shadowing and research opportunities on-campus and off-campus. You can get involved in research labs at the university or take advantage of internship opportunities at local hospitals and healthcare facilities.

Don't forget to network with fellow pre-med students, professors, and alumni who may have connections to other shadowing and clinical experiences. Reaching out to the Career Center and pre-health advising offices can also be helpful in finding opportunities tailored to your interests. Ultimately, the more proactive you are about seeking out shadowing experiences and creating connections within the Duke community, the more likely you are to find opportunities that align with your goals. Good luck!