I think that as an employee your best and most efficient chance of finding a job or at least getting to a decent interview is through word of mouth from your friends, or your "network", if you are one of those people. You will get inside info on the company and its culture way before you even apply and this should give you a great feel whether you should or should not apply.
Before you get your pitchforks out because "omg nepotism!" let me tell you about the advantages for the employer side: great quality applications without wasting too much time and resources. Good IT folks typically know a whole bunch of other good people who would make a great and natural fit for the company. And your buddy "vouching" for you also means that employers might be more willing to invest in you and get you up to speed with their often ridiculous requirements It can also be beneficial for the culture and atmosphere at work because you get like minded people.
I think that if you are just more or less blindly applying through the official channels, you are already doing it wrong. The HR drones have only gotten worse. Be in a position where either potential employers come to you or you know folks on the "inside". This, of course, requires that you are a great employee and can live up to the expectations. Then it is a win-win for both sides.
If you are just starting out your two best options to get into that position are either through your studies or, duh, work. Choose a university and courses that involve real, actual projects with actual organizations. These will be the most long-term valuable hours you will ever spend in your academic life. Talk to the professors, see if any companies are posting jobs or looking for cooperation.