A carefully-monitored off-campus program for preservice teacher education students can be used as a preventive approach to teacher stress, burnout, and culture shock often experienced by practicing and beginning teachers. Anxiety, caused by a variety of reactions including low self image, threat to security, and fear, is a common element in stress and culture shock. The proposed model features a preservice field experience program that is entered prior to student teaching and also features anxiety in controlled circumstances. The model should be used in a culturally and ethnically diverse community. The first of four program components is an orientation week for students to become familiar with neighborhood programs and agencies. The second component is a nine-week field experience in assigned settings, such as alternative schools, alcohol or drug prevention programs, and mental health facilities. Students should have a minimum of three different assignments each day, lasting from 8:00 a.m. through 10:00 p.m. Assignments should be based on three criteria: student skills and background, the needs of the participating agencies, and the type of experience the student needs. The elements of challenge, intensity, and variety should produce stressful situations. The third and fourth components provide the necessary support and feedback that enable the students to learn and benefit from their situations. The students form a network of support systems, a strategy they can later use as teachers. The program director should hold weekly seminars and supply individual feedback to students. (FG)