This paper analyzes and assesses the effects of an exploratory orientation program for tenth grade vocational-technical pupils as compared with a traditional approach. The Hazelton Pennsylvania Vocational-Technical School has been placing a greater emphasis on students making more mature vocational-technical career decisions since its opening. A problem existed in developing an intensive orientation program of basic skills necessary for success in occupational choice. This was requested because of the significant percentage of students who were underachievers, lacking in basic subject matter skills. It was felt that all tenth grade pupils entering the school should experience success in this program prior to committing themselves to career choices. The purpose of this study was to investigate the possible cause-and-effect relationship of exposing all tenth-grade pupils (Experimental Group) to a treatment condition (Orientation Program) and compare the results to a control group of eleventh grade pupils. The research conducted to test the effectiveness of the experimental teaching program led to the conclusion that the experimental teaching program was significantly superior to the conventional teaching program.