This study uses a critical consciousness framework to understand the experiences of higher education and student affairs (HESA) graduate students in an elective Diversity in HIED course. We drew from narrative inquiry to analyze data from selected student coursework in online discussion board conversations and journal entries. Students demonstrated building a foundation for engagement with critical consciousness, particularly through themes of interest in the emotions that surfaced during the course, reconceptualizing "diversity," and how to apply their learning to HESA practice. Participant learning reflected that HESA graduate programs can foster an important foundation for personal and professional development in this area. This knowledge can help faculty and supervisors support HESA graduate students' learning and preparation for active engagement regarding critical consciousness in HESA practice.