Hey
I am really sorry to hear this - I actually didn't convert any of my vacation schemes last cycle either, so I can really relate to that feeling of walking away thinking you did everything you could and still not getting the outcome you hoped for.
From what you have said though, it sounds like you have got a huge amount out of the scheme - pushing yourself outside of your comfort zone, building relationships across teams, getting sought out for work, and feeling proud of the quality of what you produced are all really positive signs. Those are not small achievements and they don't disappear because of one decision, so I'd still be proud of how far you have come!
I know it is tough to hear right now (and I'll admit that people saying this to me last cycle sometimes annoyed me too!), but I do think everything happens for a reason and you do end up somewhere that is a better fit for you. Vacation scheme rejections are especially difficult because they can feel more personal after spending time at the firm and picturing yourself there, but they are also incredibly competitive (sometimes more than you might think beforehand!) and often come down to fit and things outside your control.
I really would try not to let this make you doubt your abilities. You have already shown that you can secure multiple vacation schemes and make a strong impression on those around you, which isn't easy to do! I appreciate that this wasn't the outcome you wanted, and it is completely valid to wallow in that for a little bit, but it has still moved you one step closer to the TC offer that is right for you.
Despite the fact that I failed to convert my vacation schemes last cycle, I was successful in the only DTC application I made and it feels like the best fit for me out of all the firms (despite how I might have felt post-VS!). I know that probably doesn't make the disappointment any easier right now, but I hope it's some reassurance that not converting a VS doesn't stop you ending up somewhere that you can thrive
