The University of Delaware Career Center is gearing up for another season of its job shadow program, which pairs current students with employers and alumni to follow them around their workplace for a day. But like many things during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, the program will look a little different during the summer of 2020.

“Instead of connecting students with alumni or employers for a full day of job shadowing at the host’s place of employment, students are now connecting with employers virtually via Zoom, Skype or Google Hangouts for one-hour informational interviews,” said Ryan Fuller, assistant director of employer and alumni engagement at the Career Center (UDCC).

Applications for the first Virtual Summer Job Shadow are open until May 22, and the program takes place during the week of Monday, June 8. The UDCC aims to match applicants with an alum or employer in their desired industry. “Students can apply to any shadowing opportunity they are interested in through Handshake and are then added to a pool of applicants to be chosen for the informational interview opportunity,” said Fuller.

Although the structure of the program has drastically changed from years past, Fuller said engagement is higher than ever with the most hosts of any previous program. “We’re so excited to have more than 185 hosts participate in this year’s job shadow program,” she said. “The virtual nature of this event has allowed even more alumni to participate than ever before and from all over the country. Hosts love connecting with fellow Blue Hens and giving them the opportunity to learn about their industry.”

Todd Moore, the scientific director of cardiovascular disease at Janssen Pharmaceuticals, hosted a UD senior last winter. “Everyone needs a little help. I did when I was graduating and still do, so I understand the anxiety that these students feel,” he said. “I hope I can play even a small role in giving them some comfort that they are prepared and know that there will be many ups and downs along the road. Where they start will likely not be where they end.”

FOX Sports Vice President Gary Trenaman hosted three UD students last winter to observe pitching clients and observe on-air marketing campaigns for brands in the NFL, MLB, NASCAR and college football. “I thought this was a good opportunity to give back to the UD students who are interested in getting into the sports media world. It’s a very competitive business and I thought it could provide a great networking opportunity. All three still keep in touch.”

Fuller said she always receives amazing feedback from hosts and doesn’t expect any less from the virtual version. “Our students get glowing remarks from our alumni and employers,” she said. “Many hosts say that they wished they had this opportunity during their own time at UD.”

Evelyn Maurmeyer runs Coastal & Estuarine Research, Inc., her one-person environmental consulting firm in Lewes. Last summer, she hosted two students who assisted with field investigations on project sites and examined soil profiles and wetland vegetation. “It gave me the opportunity to tell them how UD prepared me academically for my career in environmental consulting, and give them advice based on my own experiences,” she said. “I also enjoyed hearing about their coursework at UD and their future plans.”

While students won’t be able to conduct daily tasks with their host, Fuller said the most important aspects of the original job shadow program — creating professional connections and gaining career advice — are preserved. “An informational interview is super important to help students become well informed about the industry or company they’re considering joining,” she said. “It’s a great way to network and make some contacts in your field. We all know how crucial networking is to our professional development, and the program allows students to do just that.”

Brad Bofford, the managing director and partner of HighTower Financial Principles, LLC, hosted a UD junior last winter and understands the importance of career opportunities before graduation. “I started my career with an internship while at UD and I’ve been fortunate to be in my career and have my own business as a result,” he said. “Therefore, I’m especially mindful to give back and provide similar opportunities for students. Programs like these provide a glimpse of career choices that can be everlasting and impactful.”

For students who are unfamiliar with the informational interview format, Fuller said the UDCC will host a meeting with all participating students beforehand to guide everyone through the program so there are no reservations about applying. “Take advantage of this program and the alumni who have volunteered their time to help you,” she said. “This summer is the perfect time to step out of your comfort zone and do what you can to grow your career.”

Virtual Summer Job Shadow applications close May 22. Students will be notified of their hosts on May 27. Apply now in Handshake.