Yes, you need a job (or other earned income, such as self employment), but only if you are under 24. No, you can not get it "regardless". There are multiple conditions and requirements.
There's a new urban myth among college students that says they can get a $1000 from the government just for filing a tax form. For most of them, they simply aren't eligible. A student, under age 24, is only eligible for the refundable portion of the American Opportunity Credit if he supports himself by working. You cannot be supporting yourself on parental support, 529 plans or student loans & grants. You must have actually paid tuition, not had it paid by scholarships & grants. It is usually best if the parent claims that credit.
You cannot claim a credit if you are, or can be, claimed as a dependent by someone else
If you are eligible, you have answered something wrong, in the interview. But, a lot of people are just not eligible. See https://www.irs.gov/Individuals/AOTC
