As a college grad being hired as a CTO, I think it's important to note that you're really being hired as their first developer. Eventually you'll take on the ro

As a college grad being hired as a CTO, I think it's important to note that you're really being hired as their first developer. Eventually you'll take on the role of technical lead, engineering manager, etc as they grow. But unless you're becoming a co-founder, I wouldn't consider yourself to really be in an executive role deserving executive compensation. You might grow into that, but more likely they'll hire somebody more experienced to replace you as the company grows, possibly keeping you but in a lower role.