I recently hit a frustrating milestone in my job search — I've submitted 98 applications over the past five months and not heard back from a single employer. It's disheartening to not even receive a rejection notice or any acknowledgment at all. I've double-checked my email to ensure it's working properly, and I've tried various strategies to stand out, including applying for niche positions that align with my interests. Despite my efforts to connect in person, emailing, and even calling, I still haven't received any responses. One particularly disappointing experience was when I applied for an entry-level position at a plant store, only to be told that a master's degree was preferred for a role that involved watering plants and operating a cash register. At just 20 years old, with only two jobs under my belt, I find it hard to believe that it should be this difficult to get a response, especially when I know I’m in my prime for learning and adapting. It seems like the job market is tougher than ever, and I’m not sure how to break through this silence.