Job Shadowing

"The interaction with the student was very uplifting. Having worked in business for many years, it easily becomes routine. It was very nice to see the excitement level of the student as he saw the job for the first time."
-Job Shadow Host, Hypertherm, Inc.

What is Job Shadowing?

Job shadowing is an opportunity for a student to follow an employee for a short period of time to learn about a particular occupation or industry. Shadowing gives students the opportunity to learn how skills taught in the classroom are applied beyond the school walls.

An eighth grade student visits the Hanover Department of Public Works on Job Shadow Day.

Job Shadow Day Each Spring, Upper Valley employees have a chance to see their "shadow." Students from schools throughout the Upper Valley spend part of one school day observing the happenings at local workplaces. The UVBEP helps coordinate Job Shadow Day (JSD) for Partner middle schools. Several Upper Valley schools coordinate job shadow days during the school year. Learn more about this year's JSD.

Benefits to students

• Exposes students to careers and workplaces they know little about
• Helps students develop realistic outlooks on careers and educational preparation
• Shows student how their classroom learning is relevant
• Introduces students to adult role models and potential mentors

Benefits to employers

• Demonstrate a tangible commitment to supporting and improving the
• Increase
• Show students career opportunities available in our own
• Demonstrate to students the skills required of the future workforce
• Use youth mentoring as a tool for staff
• Create a feeling of personal satisfaction that comes from
• Promote employee morale and pride in their jobs by giving them a chance to share what they do for a living with students and educators.

Benefits to schools

• Students are excited and motivated by the experience
• Form positive relationships with community members
• Enhance career development curriculum