I had been trying to apply for jobs at ABC for about a year on their website. I applied 3 times, spending a total of 6 hours tailoring resumes and cover letters for entry-level research positions, paying $35k-$40k (I was only a year out of school with three internships). I never heard a response. Then, someone close to me who used to work at ABC sent in my resume to HR internally and said, "Here, I think this guy would be good at your company." Next thing I know, I get called up for an interview. HR chose to submit me for consideration for an Analyst position at EAB, paying $50-72k a year. (I read the job description and found myself very confused; I was unqualified for it nor did I understand it. Also, I was more experienced in healthcare than in education). That leads to my first point. If they thought I might be worth $50-72k, then they certainly wouldn't have ignored me for lower level positions. It seems like applying on the website is useless; networking is key. Next came a phone interview, it was easy, basic stuff. It was odd that they asked me, "Why do you think you're good for this position," especially when I didn't select the position. Then came an Excel test. I'm great at Excel, so it was a breeze. I had one hour to make a few spreadsheets. After that, they called me immediately, seeming to be very excited and eager to interview me [i'd give the specifics as to how I knew they were very interested in me, but it would reveal my identity]. They scheduled me for a 3 round interview over 4 hours. There was a case study question with the first one, and the second two were just talking with my team, talking about my experience and what we'd be working on. My interviews went okay, good, and excellent, but it was grueling. At the end of it, the Director told me twice, "Well, we'll see you soon!" Well, that was misleading. After the month-long process, I was told I didn't get the job. I asked to be considered for other ones, and got no reply. Dropped like a ton of bricks. It was a bit devastating. A recent grad getting considered for a mid-level job? It was a bad idea in the first place. My experience tells tales about their HR system and their corporate culture. I don't think I'll apply there again.