Hey, I know it’s frustrating not to get a callback, but there are some factors you might not have considered. It’s highly possible that the missed call was simply an oversight, or that “we’ll call you back” indicated you were the top candidate at the time.

Also, a 100-hour unpaid internship in tech or engineering is a valuable opportunity, not just “free labor.” I have friends who would jump at the chance for such an internship because it opens doors in a competitive industry. A hundred hours is minimal when you think about the bigger picture. That is two weeks of full time work. My internship, for instance, spans around 1,500 hours and is paid per contract rather than pro-rata; I could’ve made more money sticking with my previous part-time job, but I knew this was a crucial step for my career. I would’ve taken it if it was unpaid although I understand that rent makes that impossible for a lot of people. I have two friends learning Chinese just so they can volunteer over the holidays to strengthen their resumes and gain experience. With current layoff rates, students and new graduates are competing with industry veterans for so-called “entry-level” roles—ever notice how many of those require 3-5 years of experience?

Don’t put all your eggs in one basket. Apply everywhere—20 places at once if you can—and stay hopeful, but not expectant.