Work Based Learning

Job shadow permission form

What is a Job Shadow?
A job shadow is a school-sponsored career exploration experience that takes place at a business or organization in your community.  Job Shadows provide a student with a meaningful introduction to the workplace.

Why are Job Shadows important?
A job shadow helps you identify career interests by observing and interviewing employees in your field of interest.  It helps you learn about the academic and technical skills required for a job.  A job shadow can point you in the right direction and help you identify the skills required for employment.

How do I set up a Job Shadow?
Contact your Career Development Assistant, teacher, or counselor.  First, we’ll work together to identify your field of interest.  Then, we’ll provide you with a business in the community who has agreed to host job shadows.  Fill out the necessary paperwork and you’re ready to go!

What can I expect on Job Shadow day?
You’ll see how the knowledge you’re gaining in school is used on the job and you’ll gain an understanding of the skills and education that you need to get a good job.

• Observe job duties and responsibilities.
• Learn what employees receive besides a paycheck.
• Find out more about the workplace.
• Explore new career ideas!

• What are your job responsibilities? Describe a typical day.
• What recommendations do you have for someone who would like to enter this field?
• How competitive is entry into this field? What is the outlook for future openings?
• What characteristics, skills and education does a person need to effectively do the job? What qualities make a person successful here?
• What challenges might a new employee encounter in adjusting to this job/organization?
• What professional publications are read by people in this field?

Feedback from STUDENTS:
“It was very hands on and I loved that aspect of it.  They were very welcoming and very open to answering my questions.  They really encouraged me to push myself and they made me enthusiastic about possibilities in the field.”  Lauren

“It gave me a better idea of what the job really is rather than just researching it on the internet.  It was nice to get one-on-one attention.  It was very informative and it strengthened my desire to want to become a PT.”  Emma

“I loved it there!  It was a wonderful experience and I really felt like I belonged.”  Jake