Specifics:
I'm talking specifically for software engineering/programming.<p>I'm not talking about a special outlier person. I'm talking about the average pay the company gives for recent college grads. Also, please limit to companies that hire more than five recent college grads a year.<p>Many would say Google or Microsoft, but having many friends that work there, I don't think that is true. Any thoughts?<p>Personal experiences are welcome too.
Kinda unrelated but my personal experience: don't only look for salary but for a job where you learn things and that is fun. Make sure you get enough vacation and your employer pays for some kind of education. You will spend a lot of time at the office and that time should be enjoyable. Value your free time!<p>I have a friend working on software in the automotive area and one at a bank, both get real good money but I'm not sure if both enjoy it.