For every application, I write a specific resume and cover letter. To add, I extract key words from the website, job description, and background research into company values and projects to bolster my resume and cover letter. However, nothing works for me. I chat with recruiters on LinkedIn and ask what they are looking for in a candidate to be considered a strong candidate.

I feel like my interview technique is neither great nor horrible. However, in interviews I am always asked about my senior year (I am still a senior) which I extended and I am attending online due to financial difficulties. I don't receive enough financial aid and I don't qualify for Pell grants due to the university (not enrolled in Pell grant program). Therefore, I have to work part time (>32 hours a week) to cover university costs.

Although my senior year(s) is online, I did study my first three years of university on campus and in labs.

A requirement for graduation is to obtain an internship and work in a professional engineering environment for 450 hours.

Some interviews led to second round interviews where I am asked about my previous internship experience and what projects I worked on. However those interviews did not lead to any offers. Note: I had an internship at the start of covid and was let go with 30/40 hours left to claim for graduation.

Thanks for reading this rant or whatever this is. I am seeking advice and ranting, simultaneously.

Could someone give me advice, a tip, or possibly tell me a similar story?

Excuse me if the writing is all over the place. I am in the middle of fighting/recovering from covid and I am frustrated.