How do I break into acute care?

Hello all, I’m a physical therapy student set to graduate this May so I’m starting to feel the pressure of finding a job. I had an excellent clinical rotation experience with a hospital which helped to solidify acute care as my preferred practice setting. I started looking for openings within this hospital system and other local hospitals but full-time options are VERY limited. From my limited experience, it seems like it is very hard to break into the acute care world unless you accept a part-time or PRN job first.

For more context: I came across a job listing within the hospital system that I did my clinical rotation with. I have strong references from my previous clinical rotation and I aced the interview. Despite all of this, I ultimately did not receive an offer because they needed someone sooner (remember I graduate this May). This was really hard for me because I thought I had sealed the deal for a full-time job at a nice hospital in a good location. Instead they offered a part-time or PRN role.

I’m sure the pressure of my upcoming board exams is also playing a role here, but I’m feeling very overwhelmed by this job search. I would appreciate any advice you all have regarding my situation… What am I doing wrong? What can I do differently? Is it meant to be this hard?