This booklet contains information, activities, and interest inventories designed to encourage middle school students to begin thinking about career options and the educational requirements of various occupations. The following topics are covered: the importance of beginning career planning while still in middle school, the relationship between study and work skills, the concept of career ladders, steps in developing a career path, job interviews, sex stereotyping and occupations, and entrepreneurship. Also included are a series of tables summarizing the beginning annual earnings and education level and course requirements of 58 occupations grouped into the following interest areas: artistic, scientific, nature, authority, mechanical, industrial, business detail, persuasive, accommodating, humanitarian, social/business, and physical performing. An environmental crossword puzzle and list of basic steps in the decision-making process conclude the booklet. (MN)