The characteristics of prospective teachers, their undergraduate years, and their hopes and aspirations are explored. Teacher shortage, the changing role of women, high school achievement, college goals, and what undergraduates feel about their education are discussed. (MLW)

A look at prospective teachers after college graduation is presented including: how many obtain teaching credentials and how many of these actually enter the classroom. Using national data, the demographic and academic characteristics of prospective teachers and the differences among various groups are examined. (MLW)

College costs, methods of payment, and how the pressure to make money may be shaping enrollment patterns are reviewed by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching. There is some evidence that students who take sizable loans may major in such fields as business, engineering, and allied health, which offer higher salaries. (MLW)