Making a decision that determines the next four years of your life seems tough when you have been told exactly where to sit, eat, and for the majority of your school life. But LZHS’s job shadowing program is designed to help students prepare for real life decisions, according to Jeanette Greco, career site mentor.

“[Job shadowing] is an opportunity either to confirm or reroute a student on a career choice that they think might fit them for the future,” Greco said. “[We want to give] the student the opportunity to envision themselves in this career.”

Students are able to work alongside a career mentor or meet with them to discuss their day to day job responsibilities, according to Greco. Students can pick up a form in the counseling office that allows them to sign up for opportunities that run year long.

Katherine Koebel, 2016 graduate, took advantage of this opportunity as a senior  and has used it to jump start her career at Michigan State University as a pre-veterinary major.

“I already knew I wanted to be a veterinarian, the shadowing was mainly for experience and networking,” Koebel said. “I was helping blood draws and writing patient discharge sheets. That’s quality experience, really helpful for hands-on learners.”

Koebel shadowed and worked with local veterinarians in the area, including her dog’s vet. She urges current students to take advantage of this opportunity and to explore their career options.

“The more you shadow, the more hands-on your experience gets,” Koebel said. “Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there.”