Science Shadows
Program
Science Shadows. The College of Science Job Shadow Program.
The Science Shadows program provides College of Science students with an excellent opportunity to expand their knowledge about industries, job functions, and workplace culture from employers, alumni, and community partners. Science Shadows is a low-stakes, high-value opportunity to get a sneak peek behind the curtain at future career pathways and get a real-world taste of employment opportunities.
Important Dates:
- Host Applications due October 28.
- Student applications open November 1 – December 1.
- Students & Hosts attend mandatory training week of December 9-13.
- Connections made with Hosts by December 17.
- Shadows Take Place December 19 – January 30.
- Surveys sent to Hosts & Students January 30.
Questions about the program? Please contact Lyndsey Edmonds, Director of the College of Science Career Center, at lyndseyedmonds@arizona.edu.
Information for Hosts
What is the Science Shadows Program?
The Science Shadows program is a single-day educational experience for students. For some, it may be their initial exposure to a professional workplace. For others, it will be a chance to build their professional network or explore a career field they’re interested in.
Depending on the nature of your industry or organization, a student’s job shadow day with you may consist of:
- Observation of your daily work
- Touring your building
- Sitting in on meetings & other activities
- Presentations by executives
- Informational Interviews with professionals in your office
- Networking with alumni or other professionals
Who can apply to host a Science Shadow?
Any professional who can host a shadow in a non-home office. We have a variety of students with many interests and career aspirations, so we are open to all kinds of shadows in all sorts of industries. Many of our hosts are UA alumni, while others are supporters of the University of Arizona, or just fans of the Science Shadows Program and the possibilities it provides students.
Do shadows have to be located in Tucson?
Nope! Shadows can be hosted anywhere in the world, though we can’t guarantee that students will apply to opportunities that are far from Arizona. Students are responsible for all travel expenses and arrangements. Many students travel home during breaks, which is why we are thrilled to offer opportunities all around the country.
How many students can we host during one shadow?
As many as you’d like; while most shadows involve 1-3 students, some companies host up to 12 at a
time. You can also host students on different days. You can specify how many students you can host on one day, or over multiple days. Some hosts like having one student per day, while others prefer to host multiple students at once. This is entirely up to you.
What if we require specific qualifications for the students who apply?
You can indicate any desired or required qualifications within the host interest form. That said, we do
encourage flexibility and openness when it comes to student applicants, as the program aims for career education and experiential learning, rather than intensive internships or permanent job placements.
How does hosting a job shadow benefit me?
The Science Shadows program is a great opportunity for employers to get involved in the Wildcat community, as well as enhance brand awareness throughout campus. It’s a great, low-stakes networking opportunity for you and the students, connecting you with talented students at the College of Science.
How to apply
Please fill out Host Interest Form to be eligible to participate.
After submitting your job shadow opportunity, our team will review the description and contact you to confirm approval. Upon approval, your job shadow opportunity will be posted to Handshake and students will be able to find and apply for the opportunity. After the application deadline closes, our team will review applicants based on the student’s career interest, majors, and preferences.
Information for Students
What is the Science Shadows program?
The Science Shadows Program is a single-day educational experience to gain exposure to a professional workplace, explore potential careers and make professional connections. Students may participate in one shadow per academic year. You may apply for up to five opportunities per session. Job shadows can fill quickly once they’re posted on Handshake, so be sure to apply as soon as possible.
How to apply
Log Into Handshake Using Your NetID and Password > Click on “Jobs” > Type "Science Shadows" in the search bar to view all opportunities.
Beginning November 1, 2024, click “Apply” then submit a cover letter & resume for each shadow to which you are applying (max: 5). The deadline to submit your application(s) is December 1.