I had to ride out this economy as a new grad. My employers took advantage and I was never paid fairly. I took any opportunity I could (part time jobs elsewhere and freelancing) to build my skills. Finally, about 5 years later I got a new job. I went from a part time $10/hr job to a fulltime 40k job. and got a raise 6 months later. and I'm still working hard to prove my worth for a promotion. I do more than my fair share of work, so I can either get promoted or get hired elsewhere. Dont work for your employer. work for yourself.