Ducks Shadow Ducks

Ducks Shadow Ducks: Job Shadow Program   

  

Are you an exploring SOJC student curious about communication career paths? Are you considering your interests and how those might translate to a major?  

 

In 2024, the SOJC piloted a job shadow program targeted towards first and second year SOJC students in the career exploration process. It pairs SOJC alumni with SOJC students for a unique, one-day, summer professional job shadow.  

  

During the job shadow, students have the opportunity to meet professionals and learn more about their career journey, including industry insight and advice about competencies/skills needed for the industry. Students also can sit in on meetings, get a building tour and have coffee/lunch with additional team members.   

  

Students will receive a $200 stipend to help with travel expenses such as mileage, parking, transportation. Students with financial concerns can request additional funding.  

 

Before the job shadow, all selected students attend a pre-departure workshop to discuss best practices and address questions.  

  

The application will be posted here for in early spring 2025.  

  

2024 Host Sites:  

  • Visa, San Francisco, CA   
  • Willamalane Park and Recreation District, Eugene, OR   
  • And more!    

 

If you are a SOJC alumni interested in hosting a SOJC student, please email Rachel Allen, rallen@uoregon.edu. We would love the opportunity to expand the Ducks Shadow Ducks program.  

 

Host Organization FAQs:  

What is the Ducks Shadow Ducks job shadow program?  

It is an opportunity for exploring SOJC students to better understand media- and communication-related career opportunities from our wonderful alumni. Think of it as an extended in-person informational interview. SOJC alumni like you provide real-world perspective so that students can make informed career decisions. The program is targeted towards first and second year SOJC students in the career exploration process and will very much be a learning experience for students.    

  

What would the experience look like for the students and hosts?  

The student visits your organization for one day; however, the experience is customizable. You create the schedule for the most meaningful student/host experience. Some examples include short meetings with individual team members to learn more about the different aspects of your organization, sitting in on meetings, a building tour, sharing your own career journey, offering industry insight and advice about professional competencies/skills needed, coffee/lunch with team members.    

  

What is the commitment? When does it take place?  

One business day ideally during summer months. Dates and times will be arranged between the students and hosts to ensure it works for both parties.   

  

How will student placements and host sites be decided?   

The SOJC Undergraduate Student Success Center facilitates the matching process between the students and hosts. Students will be required to apply for the program expressing interest and attend a required pre-departure meeting.   

  

What does it cost me to participate in the program?  

Nothing – just your time. Students will receive a small stipend (generously provided by donors) to use at their discretion to help cover the cost of travel, parking, lunch, etc.   

  

Why should I participate in the program?   

Hosting a student provides opportunities to give back to the SOJC community through meaningful interactions. You will have the opportunity to share your knowledge, discover new talent and build connections. Experiential learning is essential to the student experience. You will be an important part of a student’s career development process.   

  

How do I participate in the Ducks Shadow Ducks program?   

Email Rachel Allen, Associate Director of the SOJC Undergraduate Student Success Center at rallen@uoregon.edu expressing your interest in the program.