In tears and resumes: A candid look into the reality of job seeking during a cost of living crisis

As the cost of living crisis continues to grip communities, the struggles of job seekers have been laid bare in a poignant TikTok video shared by user Lohanny Sant (@lohannysant). In a heartfelt post, she revealed the emotional toll of going door-to-door with her resume, seeking employment during these challenging times.

The video captures Sant with a stack of resumes, sharing her experience of approaching coffee shops and restaurants, applying for minimum-wage jobs. Expressing her vulnerability, she admits, “It’s honestly a little bit embarrassing because I’m literally applying for like minimum wage jobs and some of them are being like, ‘We’re not hiring.'”

Breaking down in tears, Sant, who holds two degrees in ‘communications and acting’ and is proficient in three languages, candidly shares her frustration. “This sucks. I just want to be a TikToker, if I’m being so for real with you. But I can’t be delusional anymore like I literally need to make money so I’m just gonna keep trying.”

The video has sparked a wave of empathy on social media, with many expressing shock at Sant’s predicament. Commenters questioned why someone with her qualifications and language skills would face such challenges in the job market. One user remarked, “Communication degree and three languages??? Girl you looking in the right places?? That should make u bank.”

Amid the outpouring of support, Sant provided updates, sharing that she had secured multiple interviews and even participated in her ‘first big audition of the year’ for a TV show. The online community rallied behind her, offering encouragement and suggesting alternative avenues for her unique skill set.

As Sant navigates the ups and downs of job hunting, her candid portrayal resonates with many facing similar challenges in the current economic climate. The viral TikTok serves as a poignant reminder of the human stories behind the statistics, highlighting the real struggles of individuals striving to make ends meet in the face of adversity.