How to Find Shadowing Opportunities
Start by asking your own dentist and orthodontist!
Ask relatives or family friends who run dental practices.
But… do not only shadow relatives.
Programs may not accept recommendation letters only from relatives.
It is important to develop your professional skills by finding outside opportunities on your own!
Ask friends or other pre-dental students for references.
Join your pre-dental club on campus.
They may already have a network of local dentists and mentors for you!
Ask dentists you shadow if any of their colleagues accept shadowers.
There may be some trial and error. Don’t get discouraged!
Some dentists prefer not to have shadowers because they want to focus on their patients.
Others are extremely passionate about showing students what they do.
Not every shadowing experience will be perfect - that’s why you should get experience at a variety of offices for a well-rounded picture of the profession!
Before You Begin...
Visit the office for an in-person “interview”.
They will either ask you to come in to work out the details…
Or you can walk in (dress to impress!), and leave a message with the front desk manager if they haven’t contacted you back, to express your interest.
Ask about the office dress code.
Is it business casual, or do you need to wear scrubs?
Will scrubs be provided or do you have to purchase your own?
Have your available hours and dates ready.
Research the office’s hours and days beforehand to make sure you are available.
How to Get the Most out of Shadowing
Do: Bring a notebook to record your hours, Q&A, and observations.
Don’t: Be afraid to chime in and ask questions.
Don’t: Hesitate to ask if you can stand closer if you can’t see something.
Do: Ask about why they became a dentist.
Do: Ask about their dental school experience.
Do: Converse about hobbies & family to understand their work-life balance.
Do: Be polite and casual.
Don’t: Be intrusive or ask too-personal details.
Do: Get to know hygienists, assistants, and receptionists to hear their perspective on working in a dental office and what they do every day.
This helps you build your network because they often know other dentists or specialists for you to shadow.
After You’re Done...
Send a thank-you note or email.
Maintain a good relationship with your mentor.
Do not speak badly about your experience or mentor to other dentists, assistants, or students.
Update your resumé and/or CV.
Include mentor name, location, hours, and dates.
Summarize key points in a few lines.
Highlight any interesting cases you saw to show you paid attention!
Reflect on your experience & take a break.
Look for the next shadowing opportunity!
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