How to Describe Shadowing Experience on AMCAS
Shadowing is an invaluable experience for medical school applicants, as it provides insight into the daily life of healthcare professionals and helps solidify their interest in a career in medicine. When applying to medical schools through the American Medical College Application Service (AMCAS), it is crucial to effectively describe your shadowing experience in your application. This article will guide you on how to describe shadowing experience on AMCAS to make a strong impression on admissions committees.
Start with a Strong Introduction
Begin your description by introducing the healthcare professional you shadowed and the context of the experience. For example, “During my shadowing experience, I had the opportunity to follow Dr. Smith, a general surgeon at St. Joseph’s Hospital, for a week.” Mention the duration of the shadowing experience and any specific reasons why you chose that particular doctor or field.
Highlight Key Observations and Learnings
In the body of your description, focus on the key observations and learnings you gained during the shadowing experience. Be specific and provide examples to illustrate your points. Here are some aspects to consider:
1. Clinical Skills: Describe the procedures and techniques you observed, such as patient examinations, surgeries, or diagnostic tests. Explain how these skills contribute to the overall healthcare process.
2. Communication: Discuss the importance of effective communication between healthcare professionals, patients, and families. Provide examples of how you witnessed strong communication skills in action.
3. Teamwork: Highlight the significance of teamwork in the healthcare setting. Explain how different departments and professionals collaborate to provide the best patient care.
4. Professionalism: Share your observations on the professionalism displayed by the healthcare professionals you shadowed. Discuss how their behavior and attitudes influenced your perception of the medical field.
5. Personal Insights: Reflect on your personal growth and how the shadowing experience solidified your interest in pursuing a career in medicine.
Use Action Words and Descriptive Language
To make your description more engaging and impactful, use action words and descriptive language. For instance, instead of saying “I observed the doctor performing a physical examination,” you could say “I witnessed Dr. Smith skillfully conduct a comprehensive physical examination, demonstrating exceptional attention to detail and empathy.”
Connect Shadowing Experience to Your Future Goals
Conclude your description by connecting your shadowing experience to your future goals in medicine. Explain how this experience has shaped your understanding of the profession and your commitment to becoming a healthcare provider. For example, “This shadowing experience has further confirmed my passion for becoming a pediatrician, as I witnessed the profound impact healthcare professionals can have on the lives of children and their families.”
Proofread and Revise
Before submitting your AMCAS application, take the time to proofread and revise your shadowing experience description. Ensure that your writing is clear, concise, and free of grammatical errors. Consider asking a friend or mentor to review your description for feedback.
By following these guidelines, you can effectively describe your shadowing experience on AMCAS and showcase your commitment to a career in medicine. Remember to be specific, reflective, and genuine in your description, and you’ll increase your chances of standing out to admissions committees.
