Shadowing a doctor can help you either identify or solidify a passion for medicine. Every Pre-Med student should take the time to shadow a doctor because it gives you an idea of what your future holds, can help determine what type of medicine you want to go into, and also encourage you to press on in those difficult Pre-Med classes. Here are 5 tips for when you land an opportunity to shadow a doctor.

1. Arrive 15 minutes early.

If you’re told to arrive at 7:30 am make sure you’re there at 7:15 am. This goes for all appointments or meetings in life, but it is especially helpful here because you might need specific instruction or additional quick training prior to shadowing your doctor. It’s also a great time to introduce yourself to the medical team that you will be interacting with.

2. Dress professionally and comfortably.

You’re shadowing someone important so no flip flops or jeans. Dress professionally, but make sure your shoes are comfortable, because chances are, you’ll be on your feet the whole time.

3. Observe quietly.

The patients are not there to see you, they are there to see the doctor. Take in all that you can by observing and ask questions after you have left the patient’s room and when your doctor isn’t too busy.

4. Bring a notebook and pen.

Since you should be quiet when observing, it is hard to remember all the questions you’ll have for your doctor after they are done seeing their patient. Bring a notebook so that you can write down your questions to ask later.

5. ASK QUESTIONS.

With appropriate timing. Chances are, the doctor will be very busy so you might not always have an opportunity. You can always ask a nurse or a resident if necessary. However, to show that you are engaged and interested, it is excellent to ask the doctor many questions. Some questions you might want to ask may also include the doctor’s background like: How did you choose this type of medicine? If you could change anything about your path leading you here would you? What advice do you have for me?