Reset the PRAM. Then make sure that you choose a startup disk in that panel of System Preferences.
To reset the PRAM:
1. Shut down the computer.
2. Locate the following four keys on the keyboard: Command (Apple logo), option, P, and R. You will need to hold these four keys down simultaneously in step 4.
3. Start up the computer.
4. Press and hold the Command-option-P-R keys. You must press this key combination after the startup chord sounds, but before the gray screen appears.
5. Hold all four keys down until the computer restarts and you hear the startup chord for the second time.
6. Release the keys.