Changing Specialties

I am currently a nurse on a medical-surgical oncology unit, with 2+ years of experience. I have my BSN, have both BLS and ACLS, have taken the critical care course at my hospital and am also a volunteer EMT. I have been looking for positions in the ICU, ER, and OR. I am very interested in critical care, and would like to gain nursing experience in a critical care area. Unfortunately, however, I have heard that I need "previous <insert area here> experience" before I can be considered for the open position.

I was wondering if anyone else out there has been hitting the same brick wall, and if so, have you found someone/somewhere willing to give you the experience everyone seems to be requiring?!? I am doing my best to make myself the ideal candidate, but I can't gain the experience that everyone wants so badly if no one gives me a starting chance!

Please help with any words of advice or encouragement!!