The Center for Career Exploration and Success’s Job Shadow Program gave 239 students the opportunity to explore careers and gain real-world perspective during the 2026 Winter Term.

Professionals from 15 organizations engaged in this initiative, giving students firsthand insight into what it’s really like to work in their fields. By observing daily operations and learning about industry expectations, the students developed a clearer sense of direction as they prepare for life after Miami University.

Sample employer partners include the American Civil Liberties Union of Ohio, the Cuyahoga County Court System, Enterprise Mobility Solutions, and Mertz Design Studio.

“My experience at the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center was extremely helpful in preparing for my future career,” said first-year Medical Laboratory Science major Hayden Gillig. “I was able to tour most of the labs in the Wexner, which gave me a good idea of what I should expect from my major. As I start to think about future internships, I’ll benefit from having seen what’s happening behind the scenes at one of the biggest hospitals in the United States.”

Now in its second year, the Winter Term Job Shadow Experience nearly doubled the number of students it served from its first iteration. Brandon Prew, director of experiential education, said that the Center for Career Exploration and Success plans to expand its Job Shadow Program into the Summer Term.

“We’re excited for Miami to continue to be a leader in career exploration through experiential education,” Prew said. “Experiential education is evolving to include flexible, scalable experiences that meet students earlier in their career journeys. Job shadowing has become one of our most powerful entry points into experiential education for students. Not only that, it helps students make confident academic and career decisions. Expanding this program into the summer will allow us to serve more students, offer greater flexibility, and create customizable experiences.”

The Center for Career Exploration and Success offers Miami University students a range of programs and events, including networking opportunities with employers and alumni, professional development workshops, and career exploration activities. Visit its Programs and Events page to learn more about future offerings, including the 2026 Spring Career and Internship Fairs.