A computer science graduate recently opened up online about his ongoing struggle with unemployment, despite achieving exceptional academic results. Sharing his experience on the subreddit Anti Work, he explained how he completed his degree in 2022 with a perfect academic score, believing that such performance would naturally lead to immediate job opportunities. At the time, he observed many others securing roles quickly and assumed that strong grades alone would guarantee him similar success.
During his college years, he made a conscious decision to avoid internships, prioritizing his academic performance instead. He believed maintaining top grades was the most important factor for employers. Even when he encountered advice suggesting otherwise, he dismissed it, thinking it was misleading or irrelevant.
After graduating, he began applying for jobs extensively. Over time, he submitted thousands of applications across multiple platforms. He regularly refined his resume, incorporating feedback and making adjustments in an attempt to improve his chances. Despite these efforts, he received very few responses and struggled to succeed in interviews when opportunities did arise.
As time passed, the situation took a toll on his mental well-being. He described feeling exhausted, disheartened, and increasingly uncertain about his decisions. The prolonged job search led him to question whether he had made critical mistakes, or if external factors such as timing and luck had played a role. At times, the frustration became so overwhelming that he momentarily forgot he had already completed his degree, catching himself thinking he still needed to return to college to secure a future.
He also expressed a sense of disappointment when comparing his situation to others. Despite investing significant time, effort, and financial resources into his education, he felt that his achievements had not translated into meaningful outcomes.
This led him to doubt his original choice of pursuing computer science, a field he had entered primarily to avoid the struggles he believed others faced in less technical careers.
Advice from others to take up unrelated or entry-level work added to his frustration. He felt that he had already sacrificed his personal interests in favor of academic success, and being encouraged to take a different path now felt like repeating the same compromise. Having moved from Albania to the United States with hopes of a more stable future, he found it difficult to accept suggestions that seemed to undermine those aspirations.
Now, he finds himself reflecting on how things unfolded and questioning why the situation feels so discouraging and uncertain.
Responses from the online community offered mixed perspectives. Some suggested considering beginner-level roles within the technology sector as a way to gain initial experience and open doors. Others encouraged him to focus on building practical projects, particularly in emerging areas, and to strengthen his portfolio. Networking, reconnecting with peers, and seeking referrals were also recommended as potential ways to improve his chances and gradually enter the job market.
Cracking a job interview requires preparation, clarity, and confidence. Start by researching the company, its values, and the role so you can align your answers accordingly. Practice common questions and structure responses using real examples that highlight your skills and achievements. Dress professionally and arrive on time to create a strong first impression. During the interview, communicate clearly, maintain eye contact, and listen carefully before answering. Be honest about your strengths and areas of growth. Ask thoughtful questions to show interest. Finally, follow up with a polite thank-you message, reinforcing your enthusiasm and professionalism
Interview rejection can feel discouraging, but it’s a normal part of growth. Allow yourself a moment to process the disappointment, then shift focus to learning. Review your performance—what went well and what could improve. If possible, ask for feedback to gain clarity. Keep refining your resume, skills, and interview techniques. Remember that rejection often reflects fit, not your worth or ability. Stay consistent, apply to new opportunities, and maintain confidence in your journey. Every setback builds resilience and brings you closer to the right role. Keep moving forward with a positive, determined mindset.