Most jobs in my industry specify the maximum distance you can live from the office

I dont know what indestry you are in, but hiyering for “instant start” is really strange. Unless the indestry is flooded at the moment. We are talking about the begining of a career(aka young). Relocation issnt so complex at that time.

Also anecdotally, when I lived with my parents in a small town ~7 years ago I didn’t get any bites applying for jobs in cities.

When i wasin this situation ~12 years ago 🥲 i was sending out like 40 cv’s per day for like 6 months till I landed my first job. All the while taking on odd jobs and projects to advance my knowlede in that field. If its an option, staying at home for a while is a wise financial move IMO.

My only career plan was “intellectually simulating office work”

But you did have a plan. I am sure you were aware its not a guarantee that youll succeed. You took a gamble and worked hard to make it a win.

And I got the interview through a connection I made at a in-person meetup group.

Meetup like the website? I really liked it back in the day. you could have attended without living in the city

Rents are higher now, not sure I could do it with today’s prices, definitely not without a bit of help from the bank of mom and dad. People who don’t have that are screwed unless they get very lucky and find a good job right out of school.

I know what you mean. Its hard and getting harder. I hope ill be able to help my kids when their time comes.

At the end of the day, its not a good situation we are at, but it doesnt seem to be getting better. We are more people on this planet who want more and do more and all that adds up.

P.s. I am happy you love your job. Its always nice to hear.