Sorry to hear about the jobs Tim, kep your chin up. I think the stuff you're doing is pretty good so far, and I liked your showreel. I don't think that there is any problem with you modelling in polys, especially if thats what you feel the most comfotable with using. Theres no rush to be amazing at all techniques straight away, I think its good that you are concentrating on getting good at what you do know, and gradually using your knowledge to move into sub-d's and nurbs.

Best of luck with the rest of job applications, I'm sure you'll get something great come up, you've certainly got the determination!

LisaG