The Chronicles of a Professional Job Seeker

Title: The Chronicles of a Professional Job Seeker

Ah, unemployment. The one thing they never put in the school curriculum, but somehow, we all graduate with a PhD in it. Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to another episode of “Why Did I Even Bother Studying?”—starring me, your favorite unemployed graduate with big dreams, an empty wallet, and a Wi-Fi connection strong enough to keep refreshing job listings.

I swear, the moment you step out of high school, life hands you a rejection letter before you even apply anywhere. Since matriculating, I’ve been applying for jobs like it’s a full-time occupation. It’s gotten to the point where I can list “Professional Job Seeker” on my CV. You want my experience? Oh, honey, I’ve been in the field for years—literally. The field of rejection, ghosting, and "we regret to inform you" emails.

And don’t get me started on the interviews. Oh, you got an interview? Congratulations! Now, let’s talk logistics. It’s either the interview is on Mars, and I have no rocket fuel (aka transport money), or the employer wants “five years of experience” for a job that pays in exposure and disappointment. Sometimes, I think I should just start a business called “Applying For Jobs PTY LTD” because, at this rate, I should at least be getting paid for the effort.

Now, let’s talk money. Or should I say, the absence of it. There are so many things I need money for—college, short courses, a driver’s license, clothes (because apparently, wearing the same T-shirt for five years isn’t “professional” enough for interviews). And let’s not forget my future—my dreams of building a life, having my own place, and actually being able to afford the things I want without checking my bank balance with my heart in my throat.

I’ve been positive for too long. I’ve been searching for too long. And if things don’t change, I might just do what every desperate student does—take a loan and enter the thrilling world of Debt & Regret: Student Edition. Oh, the horror.

Teachers used to say, “Study hard, get a good job.” Lies. The news complains about unemployment? I’m living the unemployment statistics. No one ever warns you about the feeling of waking up every day, checking your emails, and realizing the only new message is from Takealot saying there’s a sale you can’t afford.

But you know what? I’ll keep searching. I’ll keep applying. Because if I don’t laugh at this situation, I’ll probably cry—and tears don’t pay bills either. So, to all my fellow unemployed warriors, stay strong. Maybe one day, we’ll all be hired. Or at least, we’ll have enough data to keep complaining about it online.

Until then, I’m off to refresh those job listings for the millionth time today.🥲

Disclaimer:

I do not own any of these pictures.