They may have decided they want no part of the trauma that downsizing inflicted in their homes. The myth of mega-salaries is a marketing tool used by colleges. It is driven by colleges that are trying to recruit students by saying their degrees will get grads the high salaries that are just not realistic. However, with higher salary come higher expectations for job performance. It seems most grads just want it handed to them.
Most college graduates are in non-technical fields.
By comparison, only 9 percent of bachelor's degrees were in computers and information sciences or engineering and engineering related technologies. For most, mid-20s to low 30s is more realistic. New graduates need to grasp the reality of the salary situation when interviewing for a professional position. It is wise not to bring up the salary issue at all during a first interview. Let the employer bring up the discussion.