Alumni Blog

Job Shadowing Provides Real Life Work Experience to Students

Posted March 10th, 2015

During the week of February 23rd, Prep students had the opportunity to participate in a job shadow event. They were able to observe professionals in various industries such as the Medical, Law, Engineering, Business/Finance, and Communications fields. Participating businesses consisted of current parents, alumni, board members, and friends of St. Augustine Prep.

This program, in its second year, was only open to Juniors and ninety students took part. Students who were interested in shadowing the medical profession had the chance to do so with AtlantiCare, Premier Orthopedics, and other private practices. Aspiring law students had the opportunity to shadow Judge Mark Sandson of the Superior Court of NJ, as well as private practices.

Twelve students interested in Engineering observed at FAA William J. Hughes Technical Center, as well as SEPTA, DRPA, and Fralinger Engineering. McPeak Investment Group, Cushman & Wakefield, and ARI (Automotive Resources International) hosted students as part of the Business/Finance job shadowing program. Students interested in the Communications industry had the opportunity to shadow at SNJ Today. Furthermore, three students had the chance to travel to New York City to shadow at Questex Media.

Students also had the chance to visit Manders and Merighi Architects, Cumberland Dairy, and Stanker and Galetto Construction.

Participants had the ability to experience firsthand what it would be like to pursue their career area of interest. They were able to give feedback and add credibility to the program. Mrs. Coyle, Guidance at St. Augustine Prep, says this “the value in this [program] is huge. Students might come back with a comment such as “I can truly see myself doing this!” or “Well Mrs. Coyle, I know I definitely do NOT want to be an engineer.”

Through this job shadow program students are aided in deciding what career path is right for them.