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It's too late to go back in time, but I feel your situation brings up a very important lesson to those new in the working world...
When you are applying for a job, and salary comes up... DON'T SELL YOURSELF SHORT! I don't know why, but it seems to mainly be a "female" thing. When I hire my staff, men always seem to come in with the confidence to ask for the high end of the salary range. The women very often have the "I'll take whatever you offer me" attitude.
I am much more impressed with someone who values themself enough to ask for more money. They may not get it, but they probably will get the job over someone who asks for very little money but is of equal skill and experience. Remember that employers want the BEST person for the job, not necessarily the cheapest person. Human nature tends to make us value things more that cost more.
The problem you now face is not an uncommon one. You came in at a lower salary range, and now you probably are stuck with those tiny cost-of-living raises. What you need is a new base salary.
I would advise you NOT to bring up anyone else's salary. Your employer considers it privileged information and none of your business. If you bring it up it makes you look unprofessional and petty. It would also make them wonder how you know this private information.
Instead, I would take some time to get your ducks in a row. Make a list of what you have done to contribute to the company. Have specific examples of how you have gone above and beyond the call of duty.. how you have saved the firm money, came up with unique ideas, or anything else that makes you a highly valuable employee.
If you don't have a strong case, then spend the next few months making yourself one. Keep a log of all of the things you've done for the company, and if possible, document them. Then, when you have enough ammunition.. make a list and talk to your manager.
When you approach your manager, do so in a very friendly way. Do not show hostility, or you'll put him/her on the defensive. Have a specific number in mind and ask for a higher figure than that. You'll almost never get what you ask for-- so ask for much more than you want.
If your manager turns you down, ask why. There may be a valid reason that has nothing to do with your job performance like a budget freeze.
Don't argue.. it won't get you anywhere other than in the dog house. Instead, ask what you can do to merit that raise. Be open to constructive criticism. If it's valid-- take it to heart and make the changes necessary. Give it a few months and then go back to your manager and tell him/her how you have complied with those guidelines.
If that fails, go in to human resources and present your case.
And... if nothing works, it may be time to look for another job... but this time... ask for more money.
There are some good books on negotiating a raise. It might be worth a trip to the library.
Good luck and let us know what happens.
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