Since we have all been in various stages of the COVID pandemic, current students interested in non-profits, medicine, or STEM careers may wonder: how does one get experience? What should you be thinking about if you are interested in working in healthcare, within a research lab, or for a community organization — both gain experience and make an impact?
The following considerations might help you reflect on your next steps …
Are there organizations looking for help? First, you may want to identify if there are any organizations actively recruiting for volunteer positions. You can do a targeted search using Handshake, attend a career fair, or even check out the Tufts Community Response Volunteer Groups. If you are a pre-health student, it is highly suggested that you review this list of NAAHP Prehealth Opportunities or view the Tufts Pre-Health resources for Volunteer and Service Opportunities.
What is a job shadow? and How do I identify shadowing opportunities if available ? A job shadow is an opportunity for an individual to observe a professional at work. During a pandemic, shadowing may not be possible, however this could be an unique opportunity to have a career conversation with a professional in your field of interest. The HERD is a mentoring platform that features profiles of Tufts alumni and non-alumni mentors in research, non-profits and healthcare settings who have indicated various ways to support students’ career interests. Some of these include job shadowing and can provide a way for professionals to to give advice to other Jumbos.
Are there other ways I can get involved to further explore my interests in Health and Life Sciences? There may be alternatives; the following links may help you brainstorm ideas and next steps :
- Virtual Shadowing — Tips From a Current Medical Student and Physician
- 9 Ways to Help Others during the Coronavirus Pandemic
- COVID Expectations for Tufts Students Regarding Internships
- Interns Playing a Vital Role in a Pandemic
- Online Opportunities For Premed Students During Covid-19
- Like Science? STEM Jobs at Nonprofits are More Common Than You May Think
- Public Health in Perspective: Viewing the Pandemic’s Crisis and Opportunities Through the Lens of History
Take a look at our full list of resources in our career communities: Education, Non-Profit & Social Impact or Healthcare, Life Sciences and the Environment.
