Based on 2006 survey data on students from three universities in western China, this study analyzes the effect of the students' family background and academic achievements on their occupation choices. Both social capital and human capital were found to be significant factors influencing their employment decisions. The more abundant the social and human capital, the more students aim for resource-rich employers in economically developed regions with higher incomes, and the higher their salary expectations. [Translated by Michelle LeSourd.]