Not sure what you want to do after high school? What if you could try out a few careers before making that decision? In a recent episode of Countdown2College, Gage spoke with Anders Peterson, a school counselor at Lincoln Southwest High School, about how job shadowing can help students explore careers before choosing a major or career path.

What is job shadowing?

Job shadowing offers a firsthand look into a career by allowing you to observe a professional during a typical workday. It’s one of the most effective early steps in career exploration, giving you the chance to see what a job is really like. As Anders explained, you can watch, ask questions, and experience the day-to-day flow of the job without any pressure to perform, making it easier to discover your interests and gain confidence before making decisions about your future.

Why should students try job shadowing?

Many students form ideas about careers based on what they see on TV and social media, or on what they imagine, but job shadowing turns assumptions into real experience. It can confirm your interest or completely change your perspective, helping you understand what fits before choosing a major or career path. It’s one of the most effective ways to figure out what you do and do not want from a job.

When should you start job shadowing?

Most students start job shadowing around their sophomore or junior year of high school, when they are ready to make the most of the opportunity. Starting at this stage allows time to explore different careers, compare options, and better understand what interests you most. That said, it’s never too late to go out there and explore opportunities.

How do you set up a job shadow?

Getting started is simpler than it seems. Most job shadowing begins with an email, phone call, or online form. Many opportunities come through personal connections, but you can also connect directly with organizations that interest you. In those cases, we suggest reaching out to someone in human resources or a staff member.

What should you expect during a job shadow?

During a job shadow, you get a realistic view of a career. While you may not see every aspect of the role, especially in fields with privacy restrictions, you can still gain valuable insight by observing and asking questions. Often, it’s the small details, like daily routines and work-life balance, that help you decide if a career is the right fit.

How long does a job shadow last?

Job shadowing typically lasts a few hours or a full day, and longer experiences provide a more complete understanding of the role. While this may require some coordination with your school, shadowing offers a level of insight that is far more detailed and realistic than other forms of career exploration.

How to make the most of your job shadow.

Make the most of your experience by:

• Going in with questions – even general ones.
• Paying attention to small details.
• Taking notes on what stands out.
• Reflecting afterward on how it felt.

Sometimes your reaction is immediate, and you quickly sense whether a career is a good fit. Other times, it takes more reflection. Either way, each experience helps you gain clarity.

Be sure to follow up.

Following up after a job shadow is an important final step. A simple thank you shows appreciation, leaves a positive impression, and can open the door to future opportunities. Job shadowing gives you a valuable chance to explore careers before investing time and money. Even experiences that are not the right fit help guide your next steps. Each experience builds your understanding, so keep exploring, stay open-minded, and remain curious about where your future could lead.