Hmm.. I have to say I have had a very different experience being a fresh college grad (class of 2008). I applied for jobs at various different places, big companies and small startup's, in all different types of industries defense, finance, health and software.

I would say I hear back from companies I sent my resume to 75% of the time - and out of those companies, I eventually get offers 75% of the time. Salary typically hovers around 50-60K depending on location and the nature of job.

Oh and I did not graduate from a technical school - no certificates, and my degree in CS is not even a BS, it's a BA because I graduated from the liberal arts college. Your mileage may vary, that's all I am saying.