Many studies have pointed out the increasing intellectual sophistication and skill levels government work will require and the resulting need for bright, capable employees to enter the federal service. In this environment, the federal government must ensure that it is in a competitive position to get its fair share of talented graduates. Unfortunately, studies by the General Accounting Office (GAO) and other groups have shown that the government is not in a competitive position, and it is already having difficulties recruiting and retaining good employees. As part of its analysis of the reason for recruiting problems, GAO is exploring the attitudes of prospective employees toward federal employment. From the first five of a planned series of conversations with groups of college students and newly hired federal employees, several themes appear to be emerging: (1) students say they do not know what jobs are available in the federal government and consider the application process to be confusing, untimely, and difficult; (2) students say they want fulfilling jobs, but believe that government work cannot provide excitement or satisfaction; and (3) students who would like to work for the federal government are discouraged by low pay levels, especially in high-cost locations. (KC)