Job Shadowing Program

Experience a "Day in the Life" of Your Dream Job!

The Job Shadowing Program gives UChicago undergraduate students the opportunity to shadow UChicago alumni and employer in their workplace. Students spend 1-5 days experiencing daily life in their field of interest. Job shadowing is a great way to build your resume, grow your network, and try out a career path.

Boston Biotech

2026-2027 Program Dates

The Job Shadowing Program takes place during University break periods. The dates of an individual's shadowing experiences are based on host availability and opportunities may be anywhere from half a day to a whole week.

Application & Deadlines

Winter Break 2026 | December 14-18, 2026

  • Applications open: August 21, 2026

  • Applications close: October 21, 2026, at 9am Central Time

Spring Break 2027 | March 15-19, 2027

  • Applications open: December 4, 2026

  • Applications close: January 19, 2027 at 9am Central Time

Eligibility

The program is open to all currently enrolled UChicago undergraduates. No prior experience in your field of interest is necessary!

Costs

Students are responsible for coordinating all logistics and paying all costs related to their job shadowing experience, including but not limited to housing, transportation, and meals. Job shadowing experiences are unpaid.

If you live on-campus and would like to remain in Chicago over the break, please contact College Housing.

Sample Shadowing Opportunities

Career Advancement offers job shadowing opportunities in a variety of fields, including the arts, business, consulting, finance, government, law, medicine, nonprofits, STEM, and more! Placements are based on the industry and location preferences submitted in the student's application. View recent job shadow hosts.

Interested in Hosting a Student?

If you are interested in hosting a student at your workplace for a job shadowing experience, visit this page to learn more.

Questions?

For questions about job shadowing, please contact careeradvancement@uchicago.edu.