A new student orientation is embedded in this course as part of the first-term program experience. Students become familiar with the counseling program student handbook, their professional and ethical obligations, and program expectations for their personal growth as counselors-in-training. Eligibility for future licensure/certification is also reviewed. Students engage in in-depth examination of their reasons for wanting to become mental health professionals, further define their short- and long-term career goals within the helping professions, and develop a highly personalized career map that guides them through graduate school and beyond. Issues relevant to the practice of professional counseling are studied, such as professional identity; counselor personal characteristics and values, self-awareness and evaluation, and counselor self-care.