A case study methodology was used to investigate the career aspirations and expectations of a range of college seniors in six diverse institutions of higher education. The research question asked was: "What impact would current policy reforms such as career ladders and merit pay have on the career choices of college students who were presently not choosing to enter the occupation of public school teaching?" Interviews were conducted with 80 students in the major fields of business, chemistry, mathematics, physics, engineering, biology, psychology, sociology, and English. Information was obtained on the students': (1) motivations, experiences, and expectations; (2) choice of subject matter, skills, values, and perceptions of teaching; and (3) public school experience; also investigated were conditions under which they might consider teaching as a career. Teaching conditions appeared to have a negative impact on these students. It is concluded that the sole addition of increased pecuniary rewards and opportunities for advancement for teachers may have an adverse effect on the teacher labor market. Among recommendations offered for educational policy makers is the need to allow for greater teacher control and less bureaucratic intrusion. Included in the appendixes are the interview guide and detailed descriptions of the students and schools involved in the study. (JD)