Ask HN: How to get into top tech companies during this hiring slowdown?

Just heard back from Microsoft, apparently they are not moving forward with any new grad applications as all roles were filled by return offers to interns.

I interned at a fairly large tech company this summer, but I don't want to go back to work for them. I'm graduating next year.

I'm having a really hard time with new grad applications this cycle. Does anyone have any tips? Other things I can do to maximize my chances?