This study examines factors in rural high school students' decision to participate in vocational education. The study compares characteristics of rural high school graduates who completed higher proportions of their course work in vocational education with those who completed lower proportions. It also compares characteristics of rural high school students who planned to complete their vocational education at comprehensive schools with those of students who planned to attend vocational schools. The High School and Beyond database, the National Survey of Labor Market Experience--New Youth Cohort, and a survey of Ohio vocational education students were analyzed. Scoring high on the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery and being classified as Hispanic or Native American were negatively associated with high vocational education involvement. Positively associated with high vocational education involvement were enrollment in work-experience programs, high absenteeism, vocational youth club membership, and classification as a White or Hispanic female. Students with higher vocational education involvement scored lower on ability and self-esteem. No difference in high school GPAs was found. Students who came from lower socioeconomic backgrounds were more likely to attend vocational schools than comprehensive schools. Job preparation and enjoyment were the primary reasons that Ohio students enrolled in vocational education courses. The document concludes that vocational education attracts students from lower socioeconomic and ability levels. The research suggests a blend of academic, general, and vocational courses prepares students better than a concentration in vocational education alone. Recommendations for further research are included. The paper contains 12 references. (TES)