<p>Engagement when the primary focus is another desire surley is difficult. When I run into this issue the way around it is to pick out the educational benefits which the student can take on to their chosen profession. For example: I have many students who would like to becomea a surgical technician, but has chosen to take the Medical Assisting program. The first thing I ask them is why would you take MA if you wanted sugical tech? The answer I often get is its seems likea stepping stone. So I build on their thought and help them pick out similarities that will keep them motivated through the program. This way it doesnt seem like a waste.</p>