Work shadowing: Structured observation in industry
Work shadowing is a short period of time (usually less than a week) where you are in a working environment observing how it operates. You'll have a chance to talk to a range of people who are working at the organisation you’re based in and build your network. Usually, you will gain shadowing experience through an extra-curricular programme for example Imperial work shadowing
Jennifer: Research Assistant Experience
Jennifer is doing a PhD in experimental neuroscience and did her Master’s and BSc at Imperial. When she was in her first year she took part in the Careers work shadowing scheme and shadowed a research assistant in a small start up. She has the following to say.
“I would highly recommend the scheme to students in their first year. I have always wanted to be a researcher, but this was a great way of seeing how research differs from a university environment. I had a chance to talk to different people within the company, understand how the start-up was developed and explore the business side of research which I didn’t know anything about. I’m still not sure where I’ll continue my research career, but the work shadowing experience opened up new and different career angles. I’m still in touch with the scientists I meet during the programme via LinkedIn and if I do decide to move into industry, they will be among the first people I contact about jobs.”
Even if you don’t know what sort of job you are interested in, work shadowing is a good starting point. To find out more visit the Careers work shadowing scheme.