Job shadow program opens doors to real-world career experience

Students listen to employee during a guided tour of an industrial facility.Students take part in job shadowing at Nextstar Energy. (Photo courtesy of Nextstar Energy)

By John-Paul Bonadonna 

The University of Windsor’s Career Centre is once again inviting hosts to take part in the Job Shadow Program. 

The initiative is designed to give students a first-hand look at life in the workplace. 

Held during Reading Week in both the fall and winter semesters, the program provides opportunities for working professionals to share their insight and knowledge with current students. 

For the Fall 2025 term, job shadowing sessions will take place between Oct.14 - 17. These visits can range from just a few hours to a full day and may involve a single student or a small group. 

Hosts are encouraged to register now through the Career Centre website.  

UWindsor on-campus based employees are also encouraged to explore potential job shadowing opportunities they could facilitate in their roles. Alumni are also highly encouraged to explore the program and the mentorship opportunity it provides. 

Students gain practical insights and a better understanding of various career paths, while hosts benefit from the opportunity to engage and guide emerging talent. Though the program is primarily intended for in-person experiences, virtual sessions via Teams or Zoom can also be arranged.

"I found the job shadow experience to be exceptionally valuable in providing students with a realistic perspective on my professional role,” remarked Muhammad Abdul Rehman of Rocket Innovation Studio.

Students gather for a photo during a job shadow visit.

Students take part in a job shadowing workshop at Nextstar Energy. (Photo courtesy of Nextstar Energy)


"It was a pleasure hosting two University of Windsor students as part of the job shadowing program in early 2025,” says Jennifer Tanner, Manager of Homelessness and Housing Support for the City of Windsor. 

“The experience provided me with an opportunity to share information about working within municipal government and social services for the students to consider as a potential career path, as well as a chance to have thought provoking conversations that I many not have otherwise carved out the time to do.”

“Their engagement, thoughtful inquiries, and rapid comprehension of complex ideas were impressive. I would readily participate again."

Hosts from across the region, including both on and off campus shadowing opportunities, are welcomed.  

Hosting applications are due by Sept. 3.  

Visit the Career Centre website or email careerservices@uwindsor.ca to learn more.