Are you considering a career as a surgical technologist and interested in the Mu Health Care Surgical Tech Program? Gaining firsthand experience is invaluable, and MU Health Care offers a Job Shadow Program designed to provide you with a realistic glimpse into various healthcare roles. This program is an excellent opportunity to explore if a career as a surgical tech, or another healthcare profession, is the right path for you.
Job shadowing at MU Health Care is a hands-off observational experience. You’ll have the chance to closely follow and observe our dedicated employees as they perform their daily tasks. This immersive experience allows you to witness the realities of different healthcare careers without directly participating in patient care.
It’s important to note that the Job Shadow Program is distinct from clinical hours programs required for graduation in some healthcare fields. If you need to accrue clinical hours, please visit our Student Vetting page for information on the appropriate programs.
The MU Health Care Job Shadow Program offers two participation options, depending on your desired time commitment:
- Job Shadowing: Less than 16 hours per calendar year
- Job Shadowing: More than 16 hours per calendar year
Job Shadowing: Less than 16 Hours – Your First Step into Healthcare Exploration
This introductory program is perfect for individuals wanting a shorter observation experience, limited to a maximum of 16 hours per year, resetting every January 1st. To be eligible for this program, you must meet the following criteria:
- Be at least 16 years old.
- If under 18, have permission from a parent or guardian.
- Obtain approval from the chosen department or preceptor for shadowing.
- Successfully complete vetting requirements.
- Receive official authorization via email from the MU Health Care Job Shadow Program confirming your clearance to participate.
How to Participate in the Less Than 16 Hours Program
To get started, reach out directly to the MU Health Care department that aligns with your career interests, such as surgical services if you’re interested in the surgical tech program. A list of department contacts is available here.
Once you have secured a job shadowing opportunity with your chosen department and agreed upon the observation dates, you will need to create a profile in Clinician Nexus:
- Review the Clinician Nexus User Manual for detailed instructions.
- Create your profile and formally apply for the shadowing opportunity through Clinician Nexus.
- When registering, select “Student” as your role, even if you are not currently enrolled in a traditional academic program. This is the designated category for job shadowing applicants.
- Complete all mandatory application steps within the Clinician Nexus platform.
Ensure all required paperwork is submitted at least four business days before your scheduled observation begins. After completing these steps, you will receive notification regarding your authorization badge and further instructions.
Job Shadowing: More Than 16 Hours – For a Deeper Dive into Healthcare Careers
For those seeking a more extended and in-depth job shadowing experience, the program allowing more than 16 hours provides a comprehensive view. To be eligible for this extended program, candidates must fulfill these requirements:
- Be 18 years of age or older.
- Secure approval from the department or preceptor for the extended shadowing period.
- Successfully complete all necessary vetting requirements.
- Receive an official authorization email from the MU Health Care Job Shadow Program confirming clearance for the extended participation.
Please note that assignments for the more than 16-hour program conclude on December 31st each year. If you wish to continue your shadowing experience beyond this date, it is essential to contact the Job Shadow Program at least two weeks before December 31st to discuss extension possibilities.
How to Participate in the More Than 16 Hours Program
To participate in the extended program, your first step is to contact the MU Health Care department where you wish to shadow. Inquire directly about opportunities for longer-term job shadowing, particularly if you are interested in observing roles related to the surgical tech program.
Department contact information can be found here.
Upon departmental approval for extended shadowing, the hosting department will initiate the vetting process within 60 days of your scheduled start date.
Dress Code for Job Shadowing Participants
To maintain a professional environment, all participants in the Job Shadow Program are required to adhere to a specific dress code. Please wear closed-toe shoes and business casual attire. Scrubs may be permitted if specifically approved by the department or preceptor you are shadowing. Jeans and high heels are not permitted, and we request that you refrain from wearing cologne or perfume to ensure a comfortable environment for all.
Individual departments and employees may have additional dress code guidelines. It is important to confirm any specific requirements with your department when you are arranging your shadowing dates and times.
Parking Information for Job Shadowing at MU Health Care
Parking arrangements differ depending on whether you are a current MU student or a visitor.
MU Students: Should park in their designated permitted parking areas. Students who do not have a parking permit will need to purchase a standard student permit online. Current MU students are not eligible to purchase visitor parking permits.
Non-Students: Should purchase a visitor parking permit through the parking website. Alternatively, metered parking is available on campus. To purchase a permit online, visit the Tiger Park Portal and create a visitor account.
Day permits can also be purchased in person at the parking office. For any parking-related inquiries, please contact MU Parking and Transportation via email at [email protected] or by phone at 573-882-4568.
Contact the Job Shadow Program for More Information
If you have further questions about the MU Health Care Job Shadow Program or how it can help you explore career paths like the MU Health Care Surgical Tech Program, please do not hesitate to reach out. You can contact the MU Health Care Job Shadow Program via email at [email protected]. Please use the subject line: Job Shadow – Additional Assistance to ensure your inquiry is directed appropriately.
