Pre-Health Outreach Guide

This Pre-Health Outreach Guide is designed to help students connect with faculty, physicians, and healthcare professionals to gain valuable research and clinical experiences. It offers practical strategies for finding opportunities, writing outreach emails, and preparing professional materials like resumes. By using this guide, students can strengthen graduate school applications, build professional networks, and explore potential career paths in healthcare.

Why Outreach Matters

Gaining experience through research and clinical shadowing is essential for students preparing for careers in healthcare. These activities not only help fulfill graduate program requirements but also:

  • Provide valuable insight into health professions
  • Strengthen your graduate school application with demonstrated interest
  • Build long-term professional relationships and mentorships
  • Help you determine your fit in various medical specialties or research areas

Finding Opportunites

Faculty Research

Some examples of where to find faculty research include:

  • UF Department Websites: Browse faculty profiles in departments like Biology, Chemistry, Psychology, HealthScience, or Biomedical Engineering. Also, lab information is sometimes shared on college websites.
  • Undergraduate Research at UF: Visit CUR (Center for Undergraduate Research) to explore the UF Research Database, join the CUR Canvas, and access Peer Mentoring opportunities.
  • Course Instructors: Consider reaching out to professors whose classes you enjoy, perform well in, or have an established relationship with.
  • Peer Recommendations: Ask upperclassmen in your major or pre-health clubs about their research experiences.

Physician Shadowing

Some examples of where to find shadowing opportunites include:

  • UF Health & Shands: Some departments may allow undergraduates to shadow if protocols are followed.
  • Personal Network: Ask family, friends, or mentors if they know healthcare professionals willing to be shadowed. Consider your own healthcare provider back home.
  • Cold Outreach: Contact clinics, private practices, or specialty offices directly with a short email and resume.
  • Virtual Shadowing: Check out this link to learn more about UF’s Medi-Gators Virtual Shadowing Program!
  • More examples of extracurricular activities, including shadowing, can be found at this link to the Pre-Health Advising Website!

Before Reaching Out

Here are some quick tips to consider before conducting your outreach:

  • Do Your Research: Know the faculty member’s or physician’s area of expertise and how it aligns with your interests.
  • Prepare Materials:
    • A brief, professional email (see sample below)
    • Your resume (1 page, polished)
    • Unofficial transcript, if applicable
  • Know Your Availability: Be ready to share when you can commit to research or shadowing hours.
  • Be Clear & Courteous: Mention your goals and express appreciation for their time.

Sample Email Templates

Navigate the accordion below to view sample email templates you can use for your outreach:

Subject Line: “Undergraduate Research Opportunities in Your Lab” or “Openings for Undergraduates to do Research in
[insert research topic]”


Dear Dr. [Last Name],


My name is Albert Gator, and I am currently a third-year majoring in pre-professional Biology at UF with a strong interest
in [research area]. I recently read about your work on [specific topic/paper/project], and I found it very compelling.
I am currently seeking research opportunities where I can contribute, learn, and develop new skills. I would be grateful
for the opportunity to assist in your lab in any capacity, even if it’s volunteer-based. I’ve attached my resume for your
reference. (Do not forget to attach your polished resume!)


Thank you for your time and consideration. I hope to hear from you soon.


Best regards,
Albert Gator
agator1@ufl.edu

Subject Line: “UF Pre-Health Student Seeking Shadowing Opportunity”


Dear Dr/Mr./Ms. [Last Name],


I hope this message finds you well. My name is Alberta Gator, and I’m currently a pre-health undergraduate student at
the University of Florida. I’m reaching out to inquire if you allow students to shadow you in your practice.
I am eager to gain clinical experience and learn more about the day-to-day responsibilities in [specialty, e.g., internal
medicine]. I would be happy to follow any necessary procedures or paperwork your office requires. I’ve attached my
resume and can provide additional materials if needed. (Do not forget to attach your polished resume/supporting
documents!)


Thank you for your time and consideration.


Sincerely,
Alberta Gator
albertagator@ufl.edu

When You Get a Response

  • Reply Promptly: Express gratitude and confirm logistics
  • Clarify Details: Ask about time commitment, expectations, dress code, HIPAA requirements, etc.
  • Showcase Professionalism: Use proper language, email etiquette, and professional communication. When given an opportunity, arrive early, and show respect for their time.

Things to Keep in Mind

  • You’re Not Bothering Them: Many faculty and physicians enjoy mentoring students. Do not hesitate to reach out! They were once in your shoes, and many are happy to support your growth—it’s part of the academic and healthcare mission.
  • Every “No” Gets You Closer to a “Yes”: Don’t be discouraged by no response or rejections. Outreach is a skill—each email you send builds confidence and resilience. All it takes is one “yes” to get started.
  • Customize Your Message: A little personalization goes a long way! Mentioning a specific paper, project, or clinic interest can show you’ve done your homework—and that you’re genuinely interested.
  • Follow-Up is Okay: If you haven’t heard back in 7–10 days, it’s appropriate to send one polite follow-up. People are busy—it doesn’t mean they’re not interested.
  • Success Doesn’t Look the Same for Everyone: Whether your first experience is a short conversation or a long-term mentorship, it’s valuable. Stay open-minded and flexible.

Additional Resources for Support

The following list will contain links to other resources and tools to help support your journey:

View Resource