Katelyn,
You make a good point. I agree that many students may have only a vague idea about the scope and specific tasks involved in a given profession. Job shadowing may help provide a limited view and I think the success of the shadowing experience is dependent a lot on the person conducting the tour. In class, periodic field trips can provide something not available in routine class or lab, and become a motivating activity that excites and inspires students.
Barry Westling