Job Shadowing

Job shadowing is a short-term, informal observation of a healthcare role. These experiences introduce students to specific healthcare careers through supervised observation of a healthcare provider. The goal is to help participants make informed career choices.

Please note that Bronson is unable to offer shadowing opportunities in the emergency department or operating room. Medical students, residents, and individuals seeking residency opportunities should connect with Western Michigan University Homer Stryker M.D. School of Medicine (WMed) , as they manage this process for Bronson.

High school students under 18 who are seeking a job shadowing opportunity can find information on the High School Students page.

Who job shadowing is for

  • Individuals 18 years or older who are exploring healthcare careers
  • College students who are required to complete a job shadowing experience as part of their academic program

What job shadowing is not

  • Active participation in patient care or clinical skill practice
  • A formal educational experience, such as a practicum or internship
  • Part of the interview process for a potential employee (prospective employees should contact Talent Acquisition)
  • An opportunity for international providers or professionals working toward U.S. licensure
  • Available to medical students or residents

Job Shadowing Types

Independent Job Shadow (Single Day)

Students who plan to shadow at Bronson for a single day (one site visit for less than a standard shift) can reach out to a healthcare provider working in their area of interest. Once the student and Bronson staff confirm, students can apply in ClinicianNexus to begin the onboarding process. Onboarding for single-day shadows should begin at least two weeks before the start date.

Independent Job Shadow (Multiple Days)

Students who plan to shadow for multiple days (not to exceed 40 hours in a calendar year) can reach out to a Bronson healthcare provider in their area of interest. Once confirmed, students can apply in ClinicianNexus to start onboarding. For multi-day experiences, onboarding should begin four to six weeks before the start date.

Rehabilitation Observation

Rehabilitation Services offers a limited number of observation opportunities during the fall, winter, and summer semesters. Space is limited and filled on a first-come, first-served basis depending on staff availability. Students must commit to at least 16 hours, have completed a minimum of two years of college, and be applying to a program in one of the following fields:

  • Physical therapy
  • Occupational therapy
  • Speech and language pathology

To apply, create a student account at ClinicianNexus and submit a request for the Bronson Rehab Job Shadow/Observation experience.

Bronson Shadowing Requirements

Observers must contact and make arrangements directly with a healthcare provider. All requests for job shadowing must be received four to six weeks before the observation date.

Requests are considered individually, and Bronson may not be able to honor all requests. Approval depends on department staffing resources, patient population, and the nature of procedures performed.

For safety, observers must meet Bronson’s minimum work requirements at their own or their school’s expense. This includes:

  • Immunizations:
    • MMR (measles, mumps, rubella)
    • Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis)
    • Varicella (chickenpox)
    • TB test
  • Flu shot (required December through March)
  • 10-panel non-regulated drug screen and/or background check for high-risk areas
  • Review the Student Orientation Information packet