As a grandparent I am very interested and concerned at the prospects of my grandchildren, which also extends to future partners. I could have commented on their choice of career or course but I didn’t I let them follow their dream, so far it has been a dream
They are drilled at school that Uni is the ultimate aim, regardless if their real ability, several have graduated, none have progressed to a graduate career, they tried there are very few openings. So far they are doing ordinary jobs, catering, retail, reception work, none in the subject they studied.
Only the very best that have completed a relevant degree really have a chance, those that do get a start and try to climb the promotion tree many fall by the wayside. The OP is in this situation, illness interrupted the career path, getting back on it with, an abundant supply of new recruits wanting your job is really hard.