Where's the best place to live/work in the DC Metro Area?

Hi there. I'm graduating from college next year and I'm looking to get my career started in the DC Metro Area. My problem is I don't know the pros and cons of all the areas, where to work, where not to work, where to live, etc. Anything from McLean, Arlington, Fairfax, Alexandria in VA to Columbia, Bethesda, Silver Spring in MD. What do you think? Thanks!