Struggling to get a part 1 architectural assistant job (UK) advice?

Hi everyone

I’m a part 1 architecture graduate and I’ve just recently graduated 2024. I’m currently looking for a P1 job and it has been rough - I’ve started applying since the summer (not sure if that’s late as most of my cohort applied late spring) and have barely got any replies.

I’ve send more than 60+ applications some of which were ignored or I got the usual “unfortunately we are not hiring” email. I have gotten some interviews but unfortunately none seemed to work out because the projects were more technical (which makes me question if that was an excuse to say no or if it was legitimate). At this point I honestly have no idea what to do???

I have changed my portfolio, my cv, cover letters tailored to each firm, and watched all the videos available on how to apply for Part 1 jobs - and I even applied to small, medium, large firms all over the UK. I’ve applied through the deezen, riba jobs etc. and sent speculative emails, yet nothing is working. I feel so unmotivated and unhappy to be honest, it’s just getting so depressing and I’m trying to push myself to continue (which I am!). I’m still trying to figure out what is wrong, a lot of my classmates got job offers and started working early sept. so surely the firms are hiring but I don’t know what can I do or improve to land the job?

At the moment, I am unsure if I should even continue looking and applying for P1 jobs or if I should just apply for my masters instead? Most universities in the UK require work experience and references which would limit me? So I’m kinda stuck in the middle not knowing what to do lol

I mean is this normal? I would be almost hitting 6 months of job searching and not get a job. I’m getting quite worried especially since the period of ‘getting a job’ is closing or even closed and I’d have to wait for early spring for new opportunities.

If you have any advice please feel free! Thank u