I remember very well that I couldn’t sleep the night before my first day of fieldwork as an OTA student. I was lying in my bed thinking, “What if I freeze up during a question? What if I say something dumb? What if they hate me?“
If that sounds like you, welcome. You’re not alone.
Whether you’re an OT, OTA, PT, PTA, or SLP student heading into your very first fieldwork, the first day can feel like stepping into the unknown. And the good news?
You’re not supposed to know it all – and you’re not expected to know it all.
You’re supposed to show up, learn, and grow.
In this guide, you will find exactly what happens on Day 1, how to prepare, and what other students wish they knew before they walked in.
What Actually Happens on Your First Day of Fieldwork
Most first days follow a similar rhythm – no matter your discipline:
Orientation or Tour
You will likely start the day meeting your clinical instructor and getting a tour of the facility. You might also go over HIPAA policies, lunch rules, where to put your stuff.
Pro Tip: Bring a small notebook and write everything down. Your clinical instructor will appreciate that you came prepared and will take a mental note of it.
Shadowing Sessions
You most likely won’t be leading a treatment on Day 1 (although it could happen. It happened to me once but chances are small).
Instead, you will shadow your clinical instructor or other team members during patient evaluations, treatment sessions, documentation, or team meetings. This is your chance to take notes and understand the clinic’s flow.
Pro Tip: Write down procedures, terminology, or equipment you do not recognize in a small notebook so you can Google them later.
Reviewing Goals and Expectations
At some point, your clinical instructor may have a discussion with you about your school’s learning objectives, share their own experiences, talk about the supervision model, plan check-ins and evaluations. This is the time to give your clinical instructor any school paperwork that needs to be signed.
During the discussion, you should ask your CI what they expect from you the first week and how often you and your CI will review feedback together. Do not be shy to ask. It will help set a respectful and professional tone early on.
How Much Time Should You Expect to Spend on Your First Day of Fieldwork?
The average length of time on Day 1 is 6 to 8 hours.
You should expect a full-day commitment on your first day of fieldwork, similar to a workday or shift.
Typical range is: 6-8 hours.
Some hospital-based settings: 8-10 hours (especially acute care).
Some school settings (SLP): 6-7 hours with breaks.
Outpatient clinics or SNF: Varies by caseload from 6 to 9 hours.
What to Bring on Your First Day of Fieldwork (That Most Students Forget)
Having the right gear makes a big difference in how confident and prepared you feel.
Essentials you need on your first day of fieldwork:
- Your student ID
- Notepad + 2 pens (always carry backup)
- Water bottle + easy-to-eat snacks (some fieldwork sites have very limited lunchtime breaks)
- A watch with a second hand (for timing tasks or vitals)
- Your phone (for quick research with your CI’s approval)
- Printed or digital copy of your school paperwork
- A small hand sanitizer
- A backpack – not only to carry all the above items, but to show that you came prepared
On Your First Day of Fieldwork Do Not Bring:
- Negative energy or attitude
- A sense that you “already know this” (trust me – you don’t yet)
- Big ego (walk in with humility)
What to Wear on Day 1: Make a Good First Impression
Your outfit sends a message before you say a word. Dress codes vary by setting and you’re most likely to be told in advance by your CI through the first email how you should be dressed. Here’s a general breakdown:
Outpatient Clinics (OT/PT/SLP) – Scrubs or polo and khakis.
Inpatient/Hospital – Scrubs, closed-toe shoes, minimal jewelry.
Schools (SLP) – Business casual (blouse, slacks, flats).
SNFs/LTC – Usually scrubs.
Pediatrics – Comfortable, professional, no dangly jewelry.
On your first day of fieldwork, it is better to overdress than show up like you’re going to a sleepover.
The Emotional Rollercoaster (And How to Handle It)
Let’s talk about feelings.
On day 1, your brain might be screaming: “I don’t belong here!,” “I am going to mess up everything,” “I forgot everything I learned in school.” This is imposter syndrome, and it is incredibly common among students.
But here’s the truth – you’re not expected by anyone to be perfect. You will feel uncomfortable for the first few days. It is normal. You’re still becoming a clinician. As the weeks go by, your confidence will grow – and your CI will notice.
Remind yourself, the emotional rollercoaster you might be going through is only temporary. Things will start settling in a few weeks.
What If Your CI Is Cold, Awkward, or… Kinda Rude?
Not every CI will expect you on the first day of fieldwork with arms wide open and a friendly demeanor. As a matter of fact, most CIs at the beginning may appear cold, give unclear or no instructions, and some might seem annoyed by questions.
Sometimes you may come across a toxic clinical instructor who may try to manipulate you for the purpose of overworking you. And in such instances, you need to learn how to handle it smartly. We have a great post on How to Handle a Toxic CI that offers practical strategies for dealing with tough situations during fieldwork.
On day 1, when you face a CI who is not as friendly as you would hope them to be, don’t rush to write them off. Don’t jump to conclusions from Day 1. Give them a little time – some CIs just take longer to warm up.
Your goal is to stay professional and kind, ask thoughtful questions at appropriate times, show initiative by offering to observe and help clean up.
5 Habits That Set You Apart from the Average Student
Here’s what CIs love to see – and what will make you stand out, I guarantee it:
- Ask smart questions (but not during a session) – this shows curiosity and competence.
- Show initiative – don’t just observe passively. Offer to clean, prep materials, or assist during evaluations.
- Stay professional – always be early, polite, and respectful with your CI and staff. Your reputation is forming from Day 1.
- Be flexible – schedules change. Patients cancel. Sessions run long. Go with the flow.
- Reflect daily – ask yourself: what did I learn today? What felt awkward? What can I improve tomorrow?
Remember, you’re not alone and you’re not failing.
That knot in your stomach? Those shaky hands? That fear you’re not cut out for this?
Totally normal. Most students (myself included) have been through it.
The first day of fieldwork is just that – a first step.
Take a deep breath, pack your bag, and show up with curiosity. You’ve got this for real.
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Related FAQs:
Can You Fail OT Fieldwork? Here’s What You Need to Know
How to Email Your Clinical Instructor Before Fieldwork The Right Way (Copy This Template)