This book examines key issues facing new professionals and suggests ways of thinking about the challenges and opportunities offered by a career in student affairs. The purpose of this monograph is to ease the transition from graduate student to full-time professional and to increase the retention of new professionals in the field. Chapters include: (1) Voices of Experience" (Barbara Snyder and Lori McDonald); (2) "Unwritten Rules: Organizational and Political Realities of the Job" (Marilyn J. Amey); (3) "Toward an Ethic for the Profession" (Thomas E. McWhertor and David S. Guthrie); (4) "Supervisory Style: The Photographer Within" (Randi S. Scnheider); (5) "Collaboration with Academic Affairs and Faculty" (Camille Consolvo and Michael Dannells); (6) "Making Professional Connections" (Lori M. Reesor); (7) "Reconciling Life and Work for the New Student Affairs Professional" (J. Douglas Toma and Kelly A. Grady); (8) "Pathways to Success in Student Affairs" (Florence A. Hamrick and Brian O. Hemphill); and (9) "Words of Wisdom" (Shannon E. Ellis). (Each chapter contains references.) (GCP)