Occupational and educational aspirations of 800 urban high school students were studied in relation to social class and types of family influence. The actual career plans of the students were also studied. Aspirations and plans showed little variation among social classes. Only occupational plans varied significantly with class. However, type of influence varied dramatically with class. Maternal influence appeared to be stronger and more effective (relative to paternal influence) at lower class levels, regardless of the race of the student.