I tried. I had an offer from another company for 20k more. I used that to negotiate a level higher or at least some sort of match to that salary. My manager, director, and several employees I’ve worked with backed me. Ultimately they gave me 2k more and wfh than they would have originally, and gave me a reason that I still think is a bit illegal “what if he tells the other coops about his salary”.

I still work here mostly because I’m trying to do a masters and such. Easier to study and work at the government. Plus my manager is amazing. Although I’m still bitter about that exchange and question my decision at times but it is what it is.