How to carry oneself during a shadow

[Anonymous]

My DS has a shadow day, and he’s freaking out. I already got him dress shoes and khakis. Are there any questions he should be asking during the shadow? Should he bring any supplies? Is it okay for him to try to socialize when appropriate? Any other advice? Thanks in advance.

[Anonymous]

Is this for high school?

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Is this for high school?

Yes, as a transfer student.

[Anonymous]

Bump

[Anonymous]

He should be himself. Yes to socializing. Ask the school about materials. He should ask his buddy whatever questions he has about attending the school.

[Anonymous]

He should be sure to ask questions and try to meet lots of people. He probably should bring a backpack with a book or something quiet to do in case the class he sits in is having a test. This is his opportunity to check out the school and students to see if it suits him.

[Anonymous]

You should remind him this is a chance for HIM to check out the school, as much as the school to check him out. Shadows aren't expected to participate, but some nice teachers will try to engage the shadow to make it more interesting for them. They're expected to seem happy to be there, NOT be on their phones at all, be polite, but most of all just shadowing. Not pressure of the kid. Second the suggestion to bring a book, in case a class has a test.
My son likes hosting shadows and says many are shy and quiet. Some are outgoing. Occassionally a kid looks bored and not interested in being there. One kid talked about how the school was his second choice. Don't do that!

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:He should be sure to ask questions and try to meet lots of people. He probably should bring a backpack with a book or something quiet to do in case the class he sits in is having a test. This is his opportunity to check out the school and students to see if it suits him.

Yes all of this. He should also be prepared to introduce himself confidently, shake hands with administrators and teachers, and have a couple of items to talk about if people ask about his interests or favorite classes, etc.

[Anonymous]

I really appreciate all the replies. I will give these points as advice to him.

[Anonymous]

They’ll try to pair him up with a kid with similar interests. Try to get him to relax and have fun, it’s not a job interview.

[Anonymous]

I understand from Mad Men that you’re supposed to bring liquor and/or drugs for the shadowee .

[Anonymous]

The school will likely let you know what he should bring, but when DC was shadowing for 9th, most recommended bring a book incase of a test in class and a water bottle. DC is a picky eater so always brought lunch even through lunch is typically provided for shadow students. DC usually ended up being given swag like a notebook or folder, a pen, sometimes a water bottle.