Thinking

Created a checklist to verify recruiters and company careers pages before replying.

Ghosting hurts less when pipeline is diversified. I need at least three active loops.

The challenge reminded me to narrate trade-offs more clearly, not just final visuals.

I interview better when I whiteboard from requirements to constraints before solutions.

Noticing stronger response from applications where I include a one-page design rationale upfront.

Response rate is low for cold applications; referrals are likely the leverage point.