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I realize this is a tough question, so I'll thank everyone that answers in advance. I'm currently in college and will graduate in May 2006. My post-graduation plans are still unknown(grad school or employment). For the rest of the summer and following semester I'm doing one of the experiential education programs (co-op, basically) where I work at a company and get paid. I'm being paid a decent wage and have relatively low expenses. I realize the importance of compound interest and would like to begin investing. My employer offers a 401k plan through T. Rowe Price which initially looks appealing. I'm worried about tying money up in a tax-deferred account when I could be in a position to not receive a salary for another 6 years, if I decide to pursue a further education. I'm also concerned about what will happen to the investment once I leave the company at the end of December. My employer-matched contributions will not be vested in 6 months, so I'm really not sure if the 401k road is the best one to take in the first place. Can someone a little more experienced with me shed some light on what the smart investment would be. My instinct tells me I need to choose a blend between short and long term investments so that, however I'm lost as to what this blend should be given my current situation. I hope thats enough information for now, I'll be glad to chip in more if needed.