The recent hires at my job have been volunteers! It sucks to say that we are now in an age where simply just applying is not enough. It has become all about who you know. My advice would be to contact your local hospital's volunteer office, sign up to volunteer, and volunteer on a unit you're interested in working on. When a position opens up, you may be the first person who comes to the hiring manager's mind. Learn as much as you can by helping out a nurse, show initiative, and help out as much as you can. Hang in there. Something's got to give. I went through the same thing when I was looking for a job 4 years ago. I remained patient and didn't give up.