Reasons for the job selections of 64 associate degree nursing graduates were examined in a pilot study at Purdue University. The basic research question was whether nursing graduates initially view "maintenance" or motivational factors as more important. Based on Herzberg's theory of motivation, information is provided on maintenance or hygiene needs of an individual: security, economic, physical, social, status, and communication. Motivational needs are also identified. Fifty-three respondents considered the method of delivering nursing care in an agency to be significant to their choices. Fifty ranked primary care as the most valuable system. Modular nursing closely followed, but team nursing and functional nursing, in that order were ranked significantly lower. The most important variables influencing graduates' first choice of employment reflected a mixture of maintenance and motivational factors. The majority regarded working close to home and salary as the most significant ones. A certain kind of job opening and orientation programs were also important. It is noted that although many hospitals allocate sizeable funds to recruitment, the respondents did not rate recruitment programs as important to their decisions. A questionnaire is appended. (SW)