Electronic Arts

Good benefits for full-timers, industry average payscale, and the gym is pretty handy to have around if you're in need of a brain break. This is a good place to start out and get some experience in how to and not to do things in this industry, but I'd advise against a long-term stay.

With that said, you'll work with some really great people, a few (but rather vocal) not-as-great people, and it's worth it to stick out a few years just for that sake.

Firstly, you're going to get slotted wherever you're needed. Management will often state that the "good" people get their pick of projects, but ultimately, you only go where it suits management to put you, and you only progress in your career when it is advantageous for management to put you there.

Secondly, if you want to keep off the overtime train, you need to set up some very clear and firm boundaries with your manager. This means, for every new manager on every new project, you need to keep those boundaries firm, or you're in for the death march of your life with little to no actual need on the project side of things.

You've got to do something about career progression. I've met many people who are frustrated with the lack of progression over their years and the lack of choice in what they are doing.

There needs to be a more functional, employee-driven process to progression that is less dependent on the whims and moods of whichever manager holds their fate.