Perceptions of postsecondary vocational student organizations (VSOs) were solicited from students in several Minnesota technical colleges. Four technical colleges participated in the study; one college agreed to serve as the pilot site to test the methodological procedures. Four focus group interviews obtained participant perceptions and views about selected research topics. Six focus group interviews were held at three technical colleges. At each college, one focus group interview was held with recent high school graduates and one with nontraditional students aged 27 and older. A total of 24 students, randomly selected by college administrators, participated in the two student groups. All focus group interviews were recorded on audiotape. Data were analyzed to determine the emergence of themes. Three factors facilitated or encouraged membership and participation in postsecondary VSOs: instructor influence, opportunity to network with potential employers, and opportunity to list membership on resume. Four barriers to membership and participation were identified: time constraints, family responsibilities, difficulty of finding or affording child care, and lack of instructor interest or commitment. Nontraditional students preferred activities that would enable them to network with potential employers. Younger students preferred social interactions, leadership development, human relations skills, and competitive events. Both groups preferred activities scheduled during the regular school day. (YLB)