Clinical Shadowing Program
The COSAM Clinical Shadowing Program provides undergraduate students interested in pursuing careers in medicine with structured opportunities to explore the practice of medicine through direct observation of physicians. Through clinical experiences, mentorship and guided reflection, students gain a deeper understanding of patient care, professional responsibilities and the realities of practicing medicine.
The program is coordinated by the COSAM Office of the Associate Dean for Academic Affairs in partnership with the COSAM Office of Student Services and the COSAM Office of Advancement. Together, these offices work with COSAM alumni, physician mentors and community partners to provide meaningful clinical experiences that help students explore the medical profession, develop professional skills and prepare for medical school. This program represents the first discipline-specific clinical shadowing initiative in COSAM’s broader effort to expand shadowing opportunities for students pursuing a variety of health professions.
Guided by the Dean’s Leadership Council
A defining feature of the COSAM Clinical Shadowing Program is its partnership with the COSAM Dean’s Leadership Council, a group of accomplished COSAM alumni who provide guidance, advocacy and support for the college and its students. The shadowing program was initiated by a steering committee of physician members of the council who recognized the importance of providing meaningful clinical experiences and mentorship opportunities for students interested in pursuing careers in medicine.
With the advice and direction of the steering committee, a recent demonstration pilot recruited physician preceptors, selected a core group of qualified students and successfully demonstrated proof of concept. At the conclusion of the pilot, both students and preceptors provided enthusiastic feedback about the experience.
Building on this foundation, the program is expanding its network of physician mentors through the engagement of additional COSAM alumni and other physician partners who share a commitment to mentoring future physicians. The Dean’s Leadership Council continues to support this effort while helping strengthen connections among the college, its alumni and the medical community. The steering committee also remains active in providing strategic guidance to shape the program’s growth and future direction.
More than a shadowing experience, the program creates opportunities for students to connect with physicians who understand the path from undergraduate education to professional practice. Through observation, conversation and mentorship, students gain valuable insight into the medical profession, professional development and the many pathways available to future physicians.
Steering Committee
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Who Can Participate?
The COSAM Clinical Shadowing Program is open to undergraduate students in Auburn University's College of Sciences and Mathematics who intend to pursue careers in medicine.
Because shadowing opportunities are limited, participation is based on a competitive application process. Applicants are evaluated on their demonstrated commitment to pursuing a career in medicine, professionalism, academic preparation and readiness to benefit from the experience.
The program welcomes students from all COSAM majors and pre-health pathways who plan to apply to medical school.
Student Expectations
Students selected for the program are expected to represent Auburn University and COSAM in a professional manner throughout their shadowing experience. Participants must complete all required orientation and training activities, including HIPAA training, before beginning their shadowing placement.
Students are expected to:
- Demonstrate professionalism, integrity and respect in all interactions with patients, physicians and health care staff
- Maintain patient privacy and confidentiality at all times
- Comply with the policies and professional standards of the participating health care institution
- Communicate professionally and reliably with their physician mentor
- Follow agreed-upon schedules and promptly communicate any conflicts or changes
- Participate in clinical activities as observers only
- Maintain a shadowing journal documenting observations and reflections
- Complete required program assignments, reflections and evaluations
- Express appreciation and provide feedback to their physician mentor at the conclusion of the experience
To support a meaningful learning experience, students are generally encouraged to complete approximately 20 or more hours of shadowing arranged in consultation with their physician mentor.
Students should approach the experience with curiosity, professionalism and a commitment to learning from physicians, patients and the broader health care team.
Physician Mentors
The success of the COSAM Clinical Shadowing Program depends on the generosity of physicians who volunteer their time to mentor students. Many of these mentors are COSAM alumni and members of the Dean's Leadership Council, while others have been recommended by Council members and share a commitment to supporting the next generation of health care professionals.
By welcoming students into their clinics, hospitals and practices, physician mentors provide perspectives and experiences that cannot be replicated in a classroom setting. Students gain firsthand exposure to patient care, clinical decision-making and the day-to-day realities of health care practice while exploring potential career paths and specialties.
Beyond the clinical experience itself, these mentoring relationships connect students with accomplished professionals who offer valuable insight into medical training, career development and professional life. Through their dedication and service, physician mentors help students build confidence, broaden their understanding of health care and prepare for future success in the health professions.
