The ideal companion for the first field/practicum experience, this book guides students through their placement while reinforcing the link between social work theory and practice. It includes detailed information on the field/practicum experience from start to finish, including: establishing a professional identity; working safely; making the most of practicum supervision; organizational issues; micro, mezzo, and macro social work practice; social work and the legal system; and terminating effectively from the practicum. To make the material more accessible, the book follows the progress of four students (Ben, Cameron, Corina, and Lauren) as they move through their own practicum experiences. Their real-life stories help spur discussion while helping students apply the knowledge, skills, and/or issues presented in the text. To further stimulate critical thinking and discussion, the book provides discussion questions and practice applications in each unit. Many of the applications were developed in conjunction with agency-based field instructors. For beginning and experienced social workers.