STUDENT APPLICATIONS ARE NOW OPEN: APPLY HERE

The NDSU Job Shadow Program gives students the chance to connect with alumni, community members, and industry professionals to explore potential careers. During these short-term job shadow experiences, students can:

  • Observe real-world workplaces
  • Learn about different career paths
  • Ask questions and gain valuable career insights

Shadows can last anywhere from two hours to a full day, in-person at the jobsite.

This opportunity is open to all NDSU students, regardless of major, class year, or previous work experience.

Why Participate?

  • Students: Discover potential careers, build connections, and gain clarity about your future.
  • Employers: Engage with NDSU talent, showcase your industry, and help students explore their career options.

See the list of participating host organizations here.

Join us for the NDSU Professional Preview Days on April 6-7 to take part in this exciting program. Contact shayla.schumacher@ndsu.edu with questions or for more information.

VOLUNTEER TO HOST

We invite companies and organizations to serve as hosts for NDSU Professional Preview Days on April 6-7, 2026. This is your chance to mentor motivated students, showcase your workplace, and connect with emerging talent.

Why Host?

  • Inspire future professionals by sharing your career journey and industry insights.
  • Build early connections with potential interns and future hires.
  • Showcase your organization and culture to the next generation of talent.
  • Give back to the community by guiding students as they explore their career paths.

What’s Involved?

  • Provide a welcoming, safe, and engaging experience for students.
  • Share day-to-day operations, let students attend meetings, or observe projects.
  • Offer career advice and feedback about skills and opportunities in your field.
  • Discuss your career path, organizational culture, and industry trends.
  • Facilitate a Q&A session and encourage future professional connections.

Flexible Formats:

  • Full day (8 hours)
  • Half day (4 hours)
  • Lunch-and-learn at your workplace.

Ready to Make an Impact?

  • We are not currently taking applications to be a host site.
  • Please email Shayla Schumacher, shayla.schumacher@ndsu.edu, if you would like to learn more about future opportunities.

Why Participate?

  • Discover your path: Explore careers and see what roles fit your skills and interests.
  • Build your network: Connect with professionals and employers in industries that interest you.
  • See the real world of work: Experience workplace culture and operations up close.
  • Boost your confidence: Strengthen your career-ready skills and learn how to stand out.

What You Will Experience:

  • Tour the workplace: Get a behind-the-scenes look at where professionals work.
  • Talk with multiple employees: Learn their stories and ask questions about how they got where they are.
  • See what the job is really like: Observe projects, meetings, and day-to-day tasks.
  • Make connections: Chat informally with staff and get insider career tips.

Who Can Participate?

  • Open to all current NDSU undergraduate and graduate students – all majors welcome!

Important Dates:

  • Applications open January 5, 2026
  • Applications close February 28, 2026
  • Matches Announced: March 6, 2026
  • Professional Preview Days: April 6 or April 7, 2026

How to Apply & Get Ready:

  1. Submit your application here.
  2. Have a resume and short statement of interest ready.
  3. Respond promptly to program communications.
  4. Attend the required orientation to get tips for a great experience.

During Your Job Shadow, You Will:

  • Learn about your host’s career path and how they got there.
  • Meet other professionals and explore potential industry routes.
  • Have a chance to ask questions to industry professionals and get advice from people in the field.

What to Know:

  • Students are responsible for transportation.
  • No academic credit or payment is awarded – this is purely an experience-building opportunity.
  • Students must attend orientation, follow any confidentiality rules, and communicate professionally.
  • Students who cancel less than two days prior or no show will not be eligible for future sessions.

Please contact shayla.schumacher@ndsu.edu for questions or more information.