Subject: Can I Share My Research Office Director’s Contact Info with My Parents?
Hey everyone,
I’m heading to an upcoming undergraduate conference, and I don’t know any of the other students going from my university. I’ve spoken with the director of the undergraduate research office and the conference coordinator a few times. My parents are a bit anxious about me traveling alone and would like to have the office number as an emergency contact.
Do you think it’s strange to share their contact information? Should I ask for permission from the director and coordinator before giving it to my parents? Would they find it inappropriate?
Just to provide some context, the university is organizing this trip and covering the costs, meaning the director and coordinator will be responsible for the event and accompanying us. My parents aren’t the type to disturb anyone; they just want some reassurance, especially since they come from a culture that places a strong emphasis on safety.
Thanks for your thoughts!
It’s great that you’re thinking about your parents’ concerns and trying to find a way to ease their worries! Given that the university is organizing and supervising the trip, and the director and coordinator will be responsible for the group, it seems reasonable for your parents to want a way to reach them in case of an emergency.
However, it’s always a good idea to ask for permission before sharing someone else’s contact information, even if their role is public. You can approach the director and coordinator politely and explain the situation. Just let them know that your parents are looking for a contact in case of emergencies while you’re at the conference, and that they don’t intend to harass them but simply want peace of mind.
Most likely, they will understand and appreciate your respect for their privacy. If they agree, it might even help your parents feel more comfortable about the trip. Good luck with the conference, and enjoy!