Job Shadows and Observations

Health care is a fast growing and ever changing field filled with new and exciting career options. With such a wide variety of careers available it can be helpful to seek out opportunities to explore different health care roles. Whether you are looking to gain a better understanding of a specific role or position or are interested in gaining general experience to the health care world, there are no shortage of options available to you. 

Consider the opportunities outlined below for different ways of exploring the health care field. 

Informational Interviews

Informational interviews are an opportunity for an individual to interview someone in a given health care profession about their experience. This can be a great way to learn more about what a typical day is like, what skills are important, what someone loves about their job, and any other information that might be helpful. Informational interviews can be arranged directly between the individual and a provider and since they do not occur in a clinical setting, there are no health requirements or applications that need to be completed.

Job Shadow/Observation

Job shadows and observations can be a great way to learn more about the day to day experience of different health care professionals. These opportunities are a “hands off” observation that must be prearranged with a sponsor. Job shadow experiences are generally less than 16 hours. To learn more about job shadowing at Ascension WI, visit the Job Shadow page.

Volunteering 

Volunteering in a health care setting can be a rewarding and informative career exploration option. For students looking to apply to a health care program, volunteering may be a great way to achieve health care experience. Volunteer options are available to meet nearly any level of commitment and experience. For volunteer opportunities at Ascension WI, visit your local Ascension WI hospital’s website and search for “volunteer” or call the switchboard and ask for the volunteer office. 

Job/Work Opportunities

Health care has many entry level positions that require little to no training or experience but can provide the opportunity to provide patient care and interact with a wide variety of health care professionals. This can be a great option for individuals looking to experience the heath care field in a more “in depth” way and can be a great addition to an application for a health care program. Both part-time and full-time positions can be found with a wide variety of scheduling options. View current openings at Ascension WI on the Career page.

Clinical Placements and Internships

Once enrolled in an accredited academic program, students in health care profession programs will have the opportunity to take part in clinical experiences and/or internships. This will allow for “hands on” training and experience that will directly prepare students for their chosen career.