How to Get Shadowing Opportunities

Looking for in-person shadowing hours? Some of the most common questions I receive are about how to find dentists to shadow and how to approach them. I know firsthand how intimidating it can be to cold call and email dental offices, but it’s a great way to explore your options and I'm here to help you through the process! In this post I’ve listed some general tips to help you find mentors, and attached email and phone scripts that I have used in the past.

Check out my other detailed post "All About Shadowing" for even more advice on how to make the most of your experience. Let me know if these help you find success by reaching out @life.with.ankita on Instagram!

Tips on Finding Mentors

• Start by reaching out to your dentist, family, and friends

• Ask if they know any colleagues who are accepting shadowers

• Build connections with assistants, hygienists, and office staff who may share where they have shadowed or worked before

• Join pre-dental organizations on campus to network with other undergraduate students and alumni who may have shadowed in your community

• Look for entry-level dental assistant positions

Email Template

Dear Dr. ______,

My name is ______ and I am a pre-dental student at [university]. I am currently in my [senior] year as a ______ major. I am also involved with my campus pre-dental club, research in dental anesthesia, and volunteering at UPMC. In order to learn more about the profession, I am looking for the opportunity to shadow a dentist and observe the daily happenings of a dental office. I discovered your practice through [source] and was hoping to gain valuable insight into the field of [orthodontics] from you.

I have completed my Hepatitis B vaccinations and HIPAA training, and I am diligently following COVID-19 safety precautions. I am currently on [winter break] from [December 15 to January 15], and I would greatly appreciate the opportunity to observe you if you are available to do so. I have attached my resumé and CV so you can learn a little more about me as well.

Thank you so much for your time. I look forward to hearing from you!

Sincerely,

______

Phone Script

*Have your availability/calendar on hand before you call*

Hi, my name is ______ and I’m a pre-dental student at [university]. I just wanted to follow-up on my email about shadowing opportunities and see if your office is accepting shadowers at this time?

→ If they ask you to send your resumé to the office or say they have to check with the dentist, great! They haven’t said “no” yet and you’re getting your name out there. Make sure to send them what they need and stay in touch.

→ If they’re not accepting shadowers at this time, kindly thank them and look forward to your next opportunity! (Especially at this time, some offices may have limited capacity.)