Georgetown Learning through Explorations, Networking, and Shadowing (LENS)

Sept – Dec 2026 | Host Registration Period

• Employers and alumni sign up to host
• Optional informational sessions held for hosts

January 2027 | Student Applications

• Student application window opens for shadowing opportunities

Early February 2027 | Matching & Selection

• Students and alumni hosts are matched

Mid-February 2027 | Student Orientation

• Matched students attend a required 20-minute prep session

March 2–3, 2027 | Shadowing Days

• Students and hosts participate in the shadowing experience

See Your Future in Focus with GU LENS! Curious about what it’s really like to work in a particular career or industry? GU LENS (Learning through Explorations, Networking, and Shadowing) gives you the opportunity to step beyond the classroom and get a firsthand look at the world of work. Through job shadowing, you will connect with professionals, learn about different career paths, and gain insight into the day-to-day realities of working in a field that interests you. Get a closer look at where your Georgetown education could take you!

Am I eligible? 

The GU LENS program is open to all undergraduate students at all class levels and majors who are 18 years or older. We highly encourage first- and second-year students to apply, as this is a great opportunity to gain insight into career pathways.

How do I apply?  

Starting in January, all available shadowing opportunities will be published on Handshake. To apply:

• Browse Listings: Log in to Handshake and search for “jobs” under the employer, Georgetown LENS Program, to explore available hosts, roles, and formats (virtual vs. in-person)
• Submit One Application: Click the central application link found in any of the Handshake posting descriptions
• Rank & Explain Your Choices: On the form, attach a shareable link to your resume, select/rank your top three shadowing choices, and write a short response explaining your interest in these specific opportunities.

Important: Submitting an application signals a firm commitment to participate. Please only apply to opportunities you are fully available to attend if matched. You will be matched with a maximum of one opportunity per cycle.

How many opportunities can I apply for?

You may apply for up to three shadowing opportunities. During the application process, you will be asked to rank your choices in order of preference to help us match you with the host and industry you are most excited to learn about.

Can I switch hosts once placed?

No, matches are final once assigned. Switching hosts impacts other student placements and creates logistical challenges for our host partners. Because submitted applications reflect a commitment to participate, please only apply to opportunities you are genuinely excited to and plan to attend if selected.

Where and when does the shadowing take place?  

The shadowing days take place during spring break (see dates above). Please consider your spring break plans during this time when choosing opportunities and whether you can participate virtually or in-person, which will vary by opportunities.

How are applications reviewed and matched?  Am I guaranteed placement?

Applications will be reviewed by Cawley staff with assistance from AI tools to help pair students with hosts efficiently. Matching decisions are based on your demonstrated interest, career goals, and application submission time. Placements are limited and not guaranteed. 

Tip: To maximize your chances of being matched, consider including smaller companies, startups, or niche organizations alongside well-known brand names in your top choices.

What happens after I am matched? 

If matched, you will receive an email asking you to formally accept your placement. Once confirmed, you will attend a required 20-minute orientation session to prepare you for a successful shadowing experience.

How do I earn my digital badge? 

You will earn a digital badge upon completing your shadowing experience, submitting a thank-you note to your host, and completing an evaluation. Full details will be provided at orientation.

Can I stay in touch with my host after the shadowing day? 

Absolutely! We encourage you to send a follow-up email, connect with your host on LinkedIn, and reach out periodically to maintain the relationship. 

Does participating in a shadowing experience increase my chances of landing an internship or job with that host?

While a shadowing experience does not guarantee or fast-track an offer, it is a powerful networking opportunity. Shadowing gives you direct access to alumni and employers, allowing you to build relationships, gain insider industry knowledge, and stand out as an informed candidate if you apply for future roles.

What if I need accessibility accommodations?

If you require accommodations to fully participate in an in-person or virtual shadow experience, please notify Jodi Schneiderman at jodi.schneiderman@georgetown.edu upon accepting your match.

Help Georgetown Students See Their Future in Focus with GU LENS. GU LENS (Learning through Explorations, Networking, and Shadowing) connects Georgetown students with alumni and employers for firsthand exposure to diverse careers and industries. Through job shadowing experiences, students gain a better understanding of the day-to-day responsibilities, key industry skills, and career paths within your role or organization, all while building meaningful connections with professionals. 

What are the benefits to hosting a student(s)?

This shadowing experience is a low-cost, low-lift way to give back to the younger generation, refine your mentoring skills, and gain fresh perspectives on your work. For employers and organizations, hosting also elevates your campus brand and helps build your future talent pipeline.

How do I register as a host?

Complete our GU LENS host registration form to sign up! To help us create a great match, the form will ask for an opportunity title, a brief description of the day, and planned activities. We encourage you to reflect on the opportunity you want to provide before completing the form. Want to learn more first? You are welcome to join an info session this fall; email Jodi Schneiderman at jodi.schneiderman@georgetown.edu for upcoming dates.

Do I need to be in the DC metro area to host?

No! We welcome hosts from anywhere to offer virtual shadowing experiences. We encourage employers and alumni in the DC and NYC metro areas to offer in-person shadowing experiences, though you are always welcome to host virtually if that works best for you.

Is there a cost to participate?

No, participating in GU LENS is completely free for hosts. Hosts are not required to cover student travel expenses; providing lunch or light refreshments is welcomed if you choose.

Can I host more than one student at a time?

Absolutely!  We encourage you to invite multiple students for this opportunity.

How long should the shadowing experience be?

Experiences typically range from 3 to 16 hours spread across the two-day period. For virtual hosts, we recommend a shorter session to minimize screen fatigue. You are also welcome to host different students or groups on each day if you would like to maximize your impact!

How are students matched?

Applications will be reviewed by Cawley staff with assistance from AI tools to help efficiently pair students with hosts. Matching decisions will be based on the students’ demonstrated interests, career goals, and application submission times. 

What are my responsibilities as a host after being matched?

Once paired with your student(s), please send a welcome email outlining key details for the visit. Be sure to include the location (physical address or virtual link), parking and public transit instructions, a tentative agenda, dress code recommendations, meal arrangements, and what they can expect during their shadowing experience. Please send a reminder email 48-72 hours prior as well. On the day of the shadowing experience, your primary goal is to give students an authentic look into your field, organization, and daily workflow.

What activities should I plan for my student(s)?

To maximize the student’s learning and keep the day engaging, we recommend structuring your time with a mix of observation, interaction, and discussion:

• Welcome & Orientation: Briefly welcome the student, review the day’s agenda, and introduce them to key team members or department leads.
• Shadowing & Meetings: Invite them to sit in on team check-ins, client calls, or project brainstorms, and observe your regular daily workflow.
• Workplace Tour: Show them around your office, common areas, or facilities to give them a sense of your organizational culture.
• Informational Q&A: Dedicate time to discuss your personal career journey, current industry trends, and advice for launching a career in your field. Consider arranging 15-minute “coffee chats” with entry-level colleagues so the student can learn about starting roles.
• Hands-On Learning: Walk the student through a recent case study or project deck, assign a brief hands-on exercise for them to present at the end of the day, or share common industry publications and software tools used in your field.

If you would like to discuss tailored activities or brainstorm a day-of agenda for your specific role, please reach out to Jodi Schneiderman at jodi.schneiderman@georgetown.edu to attend an upcoming host info session or schedule a 15-minute consultation.

Do I need to provide meals/lunch?

Hosts may choose to provide breakfast and/or lunch for student participants. However, this is not a requirement. Hosts who choose not to provide meals must include dining options and information on how to obtain meals to the student participants. 

How can I make the most of my hosting experience?

You are welcome to join an info session this fall or schedule a quick 15-minute consultation to brainstorm ideas for your schedule. Email Jodi Schneiderman at jodi.schneiderman@georgetown.edu for upcoming session dates or to set up a call.