I guess I just need to read up on how to actually use maven the right way. Thanks.

I wouldn't use Maven, but there are multiple tools that can use Maven repositories that aren't Maven, and I'd recommend one of those. :)

I was only trying to learn it because a take home coding assignment for an interview asked to use maven for its build process. I found the whole experience (using maven) disheartening while I was able to code up the assignment using maven and my inexperience with it cost me going to the second round. I have only myself to blame though.

That sucks :(. But I can tell you there are plenty of organisations (e.g. Thoughtworks) where Maven is regarded as a bad tool that should be avoided. That doesn't help you much if it's part of a job you want, though. :(