Because the reality is that while you can make a great living with your degree in computer science or information systems, only a lucky few will transform their talent into serious riches and early retirement. That's according to the IT grads who have gone before you. First, they've paid attention to the stock markets' tech stock gyrations this year. Many now tend to view stock options, the main lure of many dot-coms, with a large dose of caution. After graduating in May from Babson College in Wellesley, Mass., with an MIS degree, Myatt fielded offers from three companies and refused many second interview opportunities.
Time is partly why companies, especially start-ups, offer stock options.
An option gives a person the right to buy a share of stock at a set price. Vesting periods range from three to five years so that employees can't use all their options after a year and then leave. In other words, options are like buying a Ferrari for the price of a Saturn, but getting only pieces of the roadster doled out to you over three to five years. And there's always the chance you'll get stuck with a jalopy. Myatt and other grads say it's clear that not every promising new company will take its stock public.