The Job Shadow Program is a one-day learning opportunity for undergraduate students offered over Winter Intersession, allowing you to experience potential career paths and work environments firsthand. The program will introduce you to a professional work culture as well as career opportunities that relate to your interests and skills.

This year’s Job Shadow Program was a huge success and an amazing experience for 93 students and 37 employers.

Quinn Tessman spent her day at The Chicago History Museum. She said,  “It was a great first step in looking into what it means to intern/work at a museum. The biggest take away was that there’s so much more to museums than what the visitor sees, as well as so many more career paths.”

David Merchura shadowed at Discover Financial. David reflects, “It was a lot of fun and I learned a lot about the culture and work environment at Discover. It exceeded my expectations and made me interested in working for them.”

Claire Sagartz observed professionals at Envision Unlimited. Claire said, “It went great! I learned a lot about the organization, and the many roles it requires to run efficiently for their clients. I think this experience will be a helpful tool to apply to my future goals.”

Jazmin Rios at the Urban Wildlife Institute, Lincoln Park Zoo stated, “It was great meeting Luke, Kayla, and Matt. They were all a great fit and asked so many good questions. I know that Kayla and Matt were really interested in the internships. I will send you the information once the positions for our internships are open for you to share with them and other interested students.”

Derrick Buckingham at the Juvenile Protective Association enjoyed having Angela shadow him for the day. He reflects, “I was pleasantly surprised at how genuinely interested she is in our mission and work.  She got a chance to meet Karen and after a few minutes of conversation, Angela was “adopted” into the JPA family. Angela is welcome back anytime…we’ve told her as much. Actually, there are a couple of directors here that we’d like for her to meet. It was a great morning.”

Job shadowing is the best way to gain experience and build your professional network! Be on the lookout for information about next year’s Job Shadow Program over Winter Intersession 2019!