An acquaintance works at Microsoft and referred me to a recruiter. I have them my resume, which shows I've worked as a Software Engineer for 4+ years. A year ago I also started a part time Master's, taking 1 class at a time (OMSCS). The recruiter says they can't help me at all because I'm a student and must use their student portal, no exceptions. So, I apply to a student portal job I'm completely qualified for - but it had a question about whether I'm going to graduate within a year, and I truthfully marked No. I got a rejection saying I'm unqualified for the position, and I'm pretty sure it's because of my response to that question. TLDR: 1. Can't apply to regular MSFT positions because I'm 1/2 way through a master's. 2. Can't apply to MSFT student positions because I'm more than 1 yr aware from graduation.
University recruiting is generally a separate department. If you are doing a legitimate/ respectable masters, talk to your careers department.
Wasn't really looking for a new job, but a friend highly suggested I interview at MSFT. Figured might as well give it a shot (or at least try)
Why would you even mention the OMSCS? As soon as you applied through the student portal, your 4+ yoe became 0 yoe.
Because the recruiter said I needed to?
Your recruiter only said that because you told him or her about your OMSCS doofus.