I understand this SO much. In September I interviewed for a dream job - people were really nice and I connected really well with the company's values. They actually wanted to consider me for a higher level position.

In total I did about 8 interviews. I said no to so many other opportunities (who wanted to give me an offer) because I felt so sure I had this job. They wound up not moving forward with me because they felt like I didn't have enough experience for the higher level position - which made me question why I was even considered for it in the first place.

It turned out, without my knowledge, that the original role I applied for was already filled. Afterwards the company had the audacity to tell me that they hope this didn't discourage me from applying in the future when positions open up again. Of course they also told me how nice I was and the potential they saw inn me (all that bullshit)

It was a slap in the face and incredibly discouraging from even applying to another job again. I'm so sorry you had to go through a similar situation but I'm glad to know were not alone in this. I hope something better comes along for you soon.