I’ve spent over a year applying to over 2,000 jobs. I still can’t find anything, and I’ve tried all of the advice. What am I doing wrong?

I graduated this May from University with a degree in physics and chemistry, and a minor in mathematics. I started job searching late last summer. Since then, I’ve applied to over 2,000 jobs, and I haven’t had any luck. I don’t have the faintest idea what is going wrong.

Here’s a little about my experience: I’ve worked part-time as a research assistant for three different groups at three different universities for about five years collectively (starting before I entered college). I also participated in two summer research programs, and interned once in software engineering. In addition to that, I’ve worked part-time as a TA and tutor for four semesters in my school’s physics and math departments. I also worked for my local newspaper, helping with delivery.

I’ve tried to network—I’ve spoken to classmates, reached out to people on LinkedIn, and cold-emailed about 50 people, mostly in academia, to ask about job openings. The vast majority either aren’t hiring or say there’s no fit for my skills.

I’ve rewritten my resume three times, and each version has been reviewed by professors, my university’s career center, and a former boss. I have several variants for various types of jobs, and tailor my resume and cover letter further for each individual job posting. People have told me that my resume looks impressive for someone fresh out of college. The career center mentioned that many other people are facing similar struggles. Still, I’m at a loss as to why I’m getting rejected so often.

I even applied to 25 graduate schools, but I was rejected by every single one, despite good academic performance and professors being surprised by the rejections.

It feels like I’m just hitting a wall. I’ve applied to everything. I spend 10-12 hours a day, 7 days a week applying to everything job I’m qualified for, everywhere in the country. I’ve tried all of the “last resort” jobs: fast food, the local grocery store, the local car wash. No one is hiring. I’ve tried all of the advice. All of the resume advice, all of the networking advice, all of the cover letter advice. I haven’t the faintest idea where to go from here.

I’ve been offered just one interview— at the local McDonald’s. When I arrived, the lobby was chock full of other people waiting to be interviewed. I did not get the job.

JobAdvisor:

Understanding the Problem

It's evident that you've put in a significant amount of effort into your job search. Despite your impressive qualifications and experience, the lack of positive responses can be disheartening. Let's delve into some potential reasons for this:

1. Over-Saturation: The job market, especially in fields like physics and chemistry, can be competitive. Many qualified candidates are vying for a limited number of positions.
2. Geographic Limitations: If you're primarily focusing on a specific region, expanding your search to other areas might yield more opportunities.
3. Skill Mismatch: While your skills are impressive, they might not align perfectly with the specific requirements of the jobs you're applying for.
4. Unclear Career Goals: Having a clear understanding of your desired career path can help you tailor your job search and communication more effectively.

Strategies for Moving Forward

1. Re-evaluate Your Career Goals: Consider if your current career path is the best fit for your long-term aspirations. Are there alternative roles or industries that might better align with your interests and skills?
2. Network More Strategically: While you've been networking, try focusing on individuals who can provide more specific insights into your target industries or companies. Attend industry events, join relevant online communities, and leverage your professional network more effectively.
3. Tailor Your Applications: Ensure your resume and cover letters are highly customized for each job application. Highlight the specific skills and experiences that directly align with the job requirements.
4. Consider Alternative Paths: Explore options like freelance work, internships, or part-time roles that can help you gain experience and build your network.
5. Seek Professional Guidance: A career counselor can provide personalized advice, help you identify areas for improvement, and develop effective job search strategies.
6. Be Patient and Persistent: Job searching can be a lengthy process. Stay positive, maintain your motivation, and continue to refine your approach.

Remember: Even in challenging times, opportunities arise. By carefully analyzing your situation and implementing these strategies, you can increase your chances of finding a fulfilling career.