A Guide To Shadowing 

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• What is shadowing? 

  • Shadowing is a great opportunity to follow and observe an optometrist as they go through their day-to-day responsibilities. It will help you determine whether or not a career in optometry is right for you. 

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• Where to start? 

  • Find a doctor

    • Whether it’s your own optometrist, or an optometrist you’ve never met before, find out as much information as you can about them and determine if you would be interested in shadowing them. There a tons of optometric specialties, so find a doctor that specializes in a field you would like to know more about. 

  • Reach out

    • Reaching out to a doctor does not have to be scary! Most optometrists are very friendly, love their jobs, and are more than willing to allow students to shadow them. Call their office or shoot them an email explaining your interest in shadowing, and make sure to be respectful to their schedule. 

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• Email Template 

               “Hello Dr. (insert name here), 

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                My name is (insert name), and I currently attend (insert name of school). I have taken an interest in                          optometry, and I am very eager to learn about the responsibilities you have as an optometrist. I was   

                wondering if you would allow me to shadow you for a few hours. I understand you have a busy

                schedule, and I would greatly appreciate any opportunity. Thank you for your time, and I hope to hear

                from you soon. (Insert any contact info)

 

                Best, 

                (insert name) 

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• What to do once you get a shadowing position? 

  • Be professional! Ask the doctor what the dress code is for employees at the office. 

  • Ask questions! This is your chance to ask the doctor all the questions you’ve been wanting to ask. We recommend coming in with a list of prepared questions you would like to get an answer to. 

  • Be attentive, and listen! Listen to how the doctor interacts with patients, and how they perform their exams. It helps to bring a little notebook!