A 4.0 GPA and 3 Years of Experience Weren’t Enough

Breaking into UX design can feel like an uphill battle, even for those with experience and a strong academic record. Despite offering a 4.0 GPA transcript from a currently in-progress undergraduate degree from SNHU, three years of experience, and a solid portfolio, I recently faced rejection from a UX internship role. The experience left me questioning what employers truly seek in candidates and why even seemingly well-qualified applicants struggle to land opportunities.

The Job Posting and My Qualifications

The internship posting outlined the following requirements:

• A solid portfolio demonstrating strong interactive and visual design skills
• Working towards a bachelor’s degree or greater
• Eligible to work in the U.S. without visa sponsorship
• For fastest consideration, include a link to an online portfolio or interactive applications
• COVID-19 vaccination

On paper, I met (and exceeded) every requirement:

• Portfolio: My portfolio showcased a range of UX projects, from wireframing to high-fidelity prototypes, with a clear process that included research, user testing, and iterations.
• Education: I am actively pursuing a degree, maintaining a 4.0 GPA.
• Experience: I have three years of UX design experience in the health and wellness industry.
• Work Authorization & Health Requirements: I met both criteria without issue.

Yet, I still received a rejection.

Why Was I Rejected?

While I may never know the exact reason (they said they were unable to provide feedback “to remain fair to all applicants, and to protect the integrity of our hiring process”, several possibilities come to mind:

1. A Portfolio Mismatch

Even with a strong portfolio, it’s possible that my work didn’t align with the company’s preferred style or industry focus. Companies often look for specific types of projects or case studies that reflect their business needs.

2. A Hidden “Unofficial” Requirement

Many internship postings don’t explicitly state preferred qualifications like prior experience in a specific industry or familiarity with a particular design tool. Even though I had experience, the company might have sought applicants from a specific background.

3. Competition Is Fierce

UX internships attract hundreds (if not thousands) of applicants. Some may have had direct experience with the company’s product, an internal referral, or previous internships that gave them an edge.

4. Bias Toward Traditional Candidates

Despite my three years of experience, internships are often geared toward students with little to no prior professional background. Employers might have considered me overqualified or assumed I was looking for full-time roles instead.

The Takeaway: Moving Forward After Rejection

This experience, while frustrating, reinforced important lessons:

1. Tailor the Portfolio to the Company – If possible, highlight work relevant to the industry or product.
2. Seek Feedback – If rejections are frequent, requesting feedback (when possible) can help identify areas for improvement.
3. Leverage Networking – Many UX roles are filled through referrals. Engaging with professionals and company employees may increase the chances of securing an interview.
4. Consider Other Avenues – Freelance projects, hackathons, or open-source contributions can build experience and provide opportunities beyond traditional internships.

Rejections are part of the process, but they don’t define one’s capabilities. For anyone in a similar situation, remember: the right opportunity will come, and persistence is key in the UX industry.

Keep refining your craft, learning from each experience, and believing in your journey. Every “no” brings you closer to the right “yes.” Stay resilient—your breakthrough is on its way!