Shadow & Observational Experiences

Our shadow and observation experiences provide individuals with an opportunity to explore careers in healthcare through short‑term, in‑person observation within our organization. These experiences are designed to offer meaningful exposure while balancing patient care and operational needs.

Eligibility

Shadow and observation opportunities are available to:

  • High School Students
    • Must be 16 years of age or older
    • Individuals under 18 years old require written permission from a parent or guardian
  • Undergraduate College Students
  • Graduate College Students
  • Healthcare Professionals
    • Staff from other healthcare organizations
    • PCHC employees seeking observational experiences outside their current role

Experience Length

  • Experiences are typically 1–2 days
  • Generally 4–8 hours per day
  • To ensure equitable access and manage high demand, observers are limited to one shadowing or observation experience

Availability & Capacity

We receive a high volume of requests for shadowing experiences. Due to staffing limitations and patient care priorities:

  • We cannot accommodate more than one role or department per individual
  • Placement is not guaranteed, as some departments have limited capacity or may be unable to host observers at certain times
  • Requests are evaluated based on availability, department capacity, and completion of required documentation

Application & Response Timeline

  • Due to the high number of requests, responses are not always immediate
  • Applicants may expect to hear back within up to two weeks
  • The placement process may be delayed if all required paperwork is not submitted together or is incomplete

We appreciate your patience and understanding as we work to provide meaningful learning opportunities while maintaining safe and effective patient care.

Program Contact & Request Process

Shadow and observation experiences are coordinated by
Lisa Britt, Student Liaison

To request a shadow or observation experience, all individuals must complete the Shadow Request Form.

Submit a shadow and observation experience request here: Shadow and Observational Experiences

This form is required to collect the necessary information for review and placement consideration. Requests submitted outside of this process cannot be accommodated.