This study explores the use of a self-counseling device, Holland's Self-Directed Search (SDS), as a diagnostic tool in identifying students who have encountered difficulties in college but persist in their attendance when they may have been better suited to vocational training programs. Thirty-seven students in the University of Maryland Office of Intermediate Registration (OIR) who met the above criteria were compared on the SDS with a random sample of 37 students entering the University at the same time. Results indicated that the OIR students received more "realistic" codes on the SDS, indicating a greater interest in such occupations as electrician, repairman, truck driver, mechanic, etc. Results were discussed in terms of their implications for self-counseling and in providing a diagnostic tool to indicate alternative educational routes for students who would otherwise attend the University. (Author)