It’s often said that the first year of any new job is survival. Why can’t first year counselors go beyond that and thrive? We hope to guide individuals through our first year counseling experiences while bringing in their own hopes, worries, and successes through breakout discussions. Topics include creating connections with students, communicating with parents and teachers, advocating with your administration, and creating a counseling “toolbox.” Attendees will leave with insights, strategies, and plenty of resources that they can begin using immediately to thrive as a first year counselor.