A career survey of arts and sciences graduates between 1971-1981 was undertaken by the University of Virginia to determine how liberal arts graduates do in the working world. When asked what type of education they would recommend to undergraduates, 91% answered a liberal arts degree. Alumni advised today's students to complement their liberal arts foundation with career-related experiences, both coursework and work experience, related to their career goals. A willingness to take initiative, both for investigating career possibilities and for seeking an actual job, was also seen as important. A total of 85% of the respondents reported current job satisfaction, and the median salary reported by alumni holding jobs from 3 to 13 years was $30,000. When asked to name the skills they found most critical to their current jobs, alumni listed these most often: oral and written communication, interpersonal skills, problem-solving, and critical thinking. A plan for what the student should do for each of the 4 years of college to prepare for a future career is provided. Finding a job is addressed, and case histories are provided. Using the university's Office of Career Planning and Placement is also covered. (SW)