IS CLINICAL SHADOWING YOUR NEXT STEP?
What is a shadowing experience?
Preparing the next generation of healthcare professionals requires more than traditional classroom instruction and lab assignments. Shadowing a doctor, nurse, or other healthcare provider offers a critical, perspective—providing students with immersive, real-world insight into the realities of a career in healthcare.
Clinical shadowing involves observing a healthcare professional—such as a doctor—while they interact with patients or perform procedures, including surgeries.
The term “clinical” refers to the direct care setting where healthcare providers address the needs of patients, often at the bedside. In this environment, professionals are expected to maintain an attentive and engaged posture, reflecting their commitment to providing close, compassionate care.
Globally-minded Approach to Patient Care
Ethical shadowing
Contextualize the Experience
The Fellowship offers an unparalleled opportunity for students to build meaningful connections with healthcare professionals while gaining firsthand insight into medical practices.
Through immersive experiences, students develop essential skills like adaptability, self-awareness, and cultural intelligence—qualities that are increasingly vital in today’s interconnected world.
This journey supports not just professional growth, but also deep personal development, helping students better understand themselves and the world around them.
A day as a fellow
FAQs
Is this a hands-on experience in healthcare?
The Doctors in Italy Fellowship Program is designed as an observational shadowing experience, not a hands-on clinical internship. Participants observe healthcare professionals in real clinical settings, gaining insights into medical practices and patient care without directly engaging in procedures. This approach aligns with the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) guidelines for undergraduate shadowing, ensuring that students learn through observation while respecting patient privacy and safety.
How many hours will I be shadowing?
Participants in the Doctors in Italy Fellowship Program typically engage in approximately 20 hours of shadowing per week. This involves shadowing for four days each week, with each session lasting about five hours. During these sessions, fellows observe medical professionals in various settings, including medical and surgical areas, following their daily routines such as rounds, surgeries, and case discussions.
Does the program grant credit?
Yes, the Doctors in Italy Fellowship Program offers participants the opportunity to earn academic credit. In collaboration with Arcadia University, the program provides a seminar course that complements the observational shadowing experience. This course is available during the 4- and 5-week programs and is conducted remotely during the summer sessions. Upon successful completion, students earn 3 US credits.
Do I need to speak Italian?
While prior knowledge of Italian is not required for the Doctors in Italy Fellowship Program, having some familiarity with the language can enhance your experience. Many doctors primarily communicate in Italian; however, they often provide translations and explanations in English to ensure participants understand medical discussions and procedures. Therefore, English proficiency is sufficient to participate effectively in the program
Is the program available only in summer?
No, the Doctors in Italy Fellowship Program is not limited to summer. It offers both summer and winter sessions across various Italian cities, including Rome, Florence, Bologna, Ferrara, and Milan. For example, the 2025 Summer Programs have start dates ranging from May 18 to July 27, while the 2024/2025 Winter Programs span from December 1 to February 15. This scheduling allows students to choose a session that best fits their academic calendar and personal preferences
Shadowing safety
Types of programs
There are different ways to work in healthcare, we believe everyone has their own path and role to play
