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March 26, 2001
College Graduates Optimistic, Have High Expectations
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According to a survey of college students conducted by WetFeet.com, undergraduates are expecting a signing bonus and total compensation packages around $57,000 annually. MBAs are thinking more in the range of $122,000, including a signing bonus.
"Students are a bit insulated from the real world," WetFeet.com President Steve Pollock was quoted. "Still, they have bullish outlooks on salaries."
Pollock noted that salaries didn't rank highest in priority for college students. "It's very clear they first want a job that is challenging," Pollock said. "Then, they are looking at who they are going to be working with, such as co-workers and bosses, and then they want to know what are the opportunities for growth. After that, they want a competitive salary."
The survey also found:
- Students are optimistic they will find a job they really want.
- Consulting and investment banking companies dominate students' interests.
- The average starting salary expectation was $4,000 less for undergraduate women than it was for undergraduate men.
- MBA students would prefer a wine and cheese reception over a formal presentation by an employer.
- Undergraduates would prefer pizza and beer.