The Effect of University Experience on Occupational Choice Among Undergraduates.

This study of male students of the graduating class of 1965 in a selective university shows that occupational choices undergo considerable change during the undergraduate years. Although gross overall changes in the occupational profile of the class are not large, many students are discouraged from pursuing careers which require extensive academic training when they receive low grades, even though all who are admitted appear to be capable of entering such careers. Students initially selecting engineering as a career defect in large numbers-20 percent planning careers in the field at the outset, and only seven percent at graduation. On the other hand, only seven percent of entering students initially plan business careers, while 21 percent graduate with plans to enter business. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]