The purpose of this study was to describe and compare values, attitudes and beliefs of last class lyceum or secondary education students, towards the ideal career and the nursing career. A comparative descriptive survey was used partially replicating the study carried out by May et al. (1991). The sample comprised of 1467 last class lyceum students all over the country. The instrument developed by May et al. (1991) was used after permission was obtained from the authors. First descriptive statistics were computed. Paired t-test and one Way Analysis of Variance were performed to test for significant differences. AL1 differences between the ideal and nursing career were statistically significant. Students perceived the ideal career as knowledgeable, respected, appreciated, practiced in a safe environment, with job security, autonomy in decision making and opportunities for making money. Nursing was perceived as caring for people but technical in nature. Although nursing was studied in college, to some extent this was appreciated and that it required good grades, however it was seen without autonomy in decision making and respect, unsafe, with no job security and not offering opportunities for making money. The results suggest the need for actions to improve the low profile of the profession.