This paper presents some preliminary results from a study inquiring into factors that contribute to teacher retention and commitment. The data presented are part of a larger project financed by the Swedish National Science Council: "Crossroads - a longitudinal study of choices and values in teachers’ work trajectories". It builds from a unique material: 87 graduates from one Teacher Education program in Sweden were interviewed by mail at eight occasions regarding their work and lives, spanning from their graduation in 1993 through their careers until 2008. The purpose of the project is to describe, understand and explain the specific circumstances, attitudes and strategies that make teachers stay, leave or return to the teaching profession. The aim of this paper is to tentatively map key characteristics of teacher experiences during 15 years.