Job shadowing is a required component of several health science programs and allows applicants to observe professionals in real-world clinical settings. Shadowing experiences help students confirm their interest in their chosen field and better understand day-to-day responsibilities before entering the program.
Students are responsible for contacting clinical sites directly to arrange shadowing experiences. Availability, requirements, and approval to shadow vary by facility and are not guaranteed. Be sure to check your prospective shadowing facilities for any existing vaccinations and/or age restrictions.
Note: The clinics and facilities listed on this page are provided as a helpful reference for locations near the university where students have previously completed job shadowing. Students are not required to shadow at one of the locations listed and may complete shadowing at any appropriate facility near their place of residence, provided the experience meets program requirements.
Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) Shadowing Locations
Applicants are required to complete 20 total hours of job shadowing in one or more occupational therapy (O.T.) clinics. Students are responsible for contacting clinics directly to arrange their own shadowing dates and times. Below is a list of O.T. clinics where students have previously completed shadowing hours.
Portsmouth
- Portsmouth Health and Rehab
- Buckeye Forest / Rosemount Pavilion
- Kidz Connect Therapy
- Compass Community Health (Pediatrics)
- SOMC Life Center Rehabilitation Services
- SOMC Inpatient Rehabilitation (ask for the OT Department)
Wheelersburg
- Best Care
- Concord Health and Rehab
Waverly
- Adena Health Center
Chillicothe
- Adena Medical Center – OT Department
- Adena Rehab and Wellness Center
- Adena Home Health Care
- Pioneer School
Ashland / Huntington
- Developmental Therapy Center (Pediatrics)
- Autism Services Center
- King’s Daughters Vitality Center
- Cabell Huntington Hospital (ask for the OT Department)
- King’s Daughters Medical Center (ask for the OT Department)
- Caring Moore Homes
- Lifepoint Health – Ashland
- Encompass Rehabilitation Hospital – Huntington
Once all job shadowing hours are completed, applicants must complete the OTA Shadowing Verification Form, document their hours, and obtain a signature from the supervising professional.
Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) Shadowing Locations
Applicants are required to complete 20 total hours of job shadowing across two different physical therapy (P.T.) settings (for example, outpatient and inpatient). However, some exceptions may apply. Students must contact clinics independently to schedule shadowing experiences. Be sure to check your prospective shadowing facilities for any existing COVID and/or age restrictions. Below are clinics where students have previously completed shadowing hours.
Outpatient Clinics
- Tri-State Rehab (Portsmouth)
- Tri-State Rehab (Shawnee)
- Tri-State Rehab (Wheelersburg)
- Tri-State Rehab (Ironton)
- Tri-State Rehab (Ashland)
- Premier Therapy (Portsmouth, Lucasville, Ironton, Wheelersburg, Ashland, Russell)
- SOMC Life Center (Portsmouth, Wheelersburg, Lucasville)
- King’s Daughters Rehabilitation (Wheelersburg, Ashland)
- Adena Outpatient Clinics (Waverly, Chillicothe)
Inpatient Rehabilitation, Hospitals, and Nursing Facilities
- SOMC
- King’s Daughters Medical Center
- Adena Health System
- Holzer Health System
- Portsmouth Health and Rehab
- Advance 360
- Concord Health and Rehab
Once all job shadowing hours are completed, applicants must complete the PTA Shadowing Verification Form, document their hours, and obtain a signature from the supervising professional.
Radiologic Technology Shadowing Locations
Applicants are required to complete 10 total hours of job shadowing in a hospital radiology department. Students must contact hospitals independently to arrange shadowing experiences. Each facility may have specific requirements, which can include background checks, onboarding paperwork, or proof of vaccination.
Hospitals to Consider:
- Adena Health System – Student Education Opportunities (select Online Student Onboarding Portal and click Apply Online)
- Southern Ohio Medical Center (SOMC) – Volunteer Services (Adult Volunteer Application required)
- UK King’s Daughters Medical Center (KDMC) – Workforce Programs (shadowing coordinated through Brittney Thomas)
- Adams County Regional Medical Center
- Highland District Hospital
- Mercy Health System
Once all job shadowing hours are completed, applicants must complete the Radiologic Technology Shadowing Verification Form and document their hours.
Dental Hygiene Shadowing Locations
Applicants are required to complete 12 total hours of job shadowing at two different dental settings. Students are encouraged to shadow a Registered Dental Hygienist or Licensed Dentist at local dental offices to gain exposure to the profession and confirm their interest in the program.
Once all job shadowing hours are completed, applicants must complete the Dental Hygiene Shadowing Verification Form, document their hours, and obtain a signature from the supervising professional.
Job Shadowing Guidelines
Job shadowing is an excellent way to provide insight and first-hand observation for a possible career or major. Keep in mind when shadowing, you are representing the institution or business that has granted you permission to shadow. You will have contact with their patients, clients, business associates, and the public in general. You need to ensure that you represent them, Shawnee State University, and yourself in a positive and professional manner. Below are guidelines to help display professionalism.
Arrive on Time: Always be punctual and listen carefully to the person you are shadowing.
Ask Questions: Ask appropriate questions during the observation time. If you have any questions about job shadowing attire or policies, ensure you ask questions before arriving so that you can properly prepare.
Attire: Do not wear jeans, jean skirts, hooded sweatshirts/jackets, shorts, sandals, halter- tops, sundresses, or similar casual attire. Shoes should be closed-toed for safety. Clothing should fit properly. Ensure clothing is not too tight or too loose. Both clothing and shoes need to be clean and well maintained. For example, khaki pants and a polo shirt are often acceptable.
Hair: Hair should be clean, combed, and neatly styled. For those with long hair, pulling it back is highly recommended. Shaggy, unkempt hair does not appear professional. Ensure beards, sideburns, and moustaches are neatly trimmed and groomed.
Jewelry: Use discretion and consider safety precautions when wearing jewelry during shadowing. Visible jewelry applied through body piercings, with the exception of pierced earrings, is highly discouraged. Earrings should be modest size and number.
Tattoos: It is recommended to cover all tattoos. This may require wearing long sleeves, turtleneck shirts or modifying attire to cover any tattoos. Some host institutions require that all tattoos be covered.
Cell Phones: Power off cell phones at all times. Do not check texts, email, or take phone calls while shadowing. It is highly suggested that you leave your phone locked up in your car glovebox or in a secure location while shadowing.
Remember:
Some believe it only takes seven seconds to make a first impression (Gorman, 2011), so professionally presenting yourself is vitally important! Go Bears!