SHADOWING A DOCTOR
IS CLINICAL SHADOWING YOUR NEXT STEP?
Discover what healthcare looks like in a global context and gain insight to shape your future in the health sciences.
ABOUT
What is a clinical shadowing experience?
Becoming a great healthcare professional takes more than books and labs. Watching real doctors and nurses in action gives you a front-row seat to what life is really like in the field—eye-opening, inspiring, and way beyond the classroom.
Clinical shadowing means tagging along with a healthcare professional—like a doctor—as they care for patients or perform procedures, even surgeries. It takes place in real clinical settings, where care happens up close. It's all about being present, observing how compassion and focus come together in the everyday work of healthcare.
Globally-minded Approach to Patient Care
International shadowing is invaluable for aspiring healthcare professionals, exposing them to diverse systems, practices, and cultures, broadening their perspectives, and fostering adaptability. It enhances cultural competency and ultimately enriches their careers and the healthcare industry.
Ethical shadowing
First, do no harm. It is important to ensure that this practice is conducted in an ethical manner that respects the privacy and autonomy of patients, wherever you are in the world.
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.
This journey supports not just professional growth, but also deep personal development, helping students better understand themselves and the world around them.
HOW IT WORKS
A day as a fellow
Curious to learn how the Doctors in Italy Fellowship is structured? See what you should expect based on the experience of previous fellows.
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 etiquette
What to wear to make the best impression while shadowing a doctor? See our visual guide for dressing appropriately when shadowing a doctor.
Shadowing safety
By paying close attention to safety signs, following instructions from staff members, and being mindful of potential hazards in the environment you're doing your part to stay safe and healthy. The orientation sessions pre-departure and on-site will help you do your part.
CLINICAL SHADOWING EXPERIENCE
Types of programs
There are different ways to work in healthcare, we believe everyone has their own path and role to play.
Animal Care
For those who wish to dedicate their career to the health of non-human animals.
Learn more
One Health
For those who see one unified health, affecting humans, animals and environment.
Learn more