Hi everyone, I need some advice. My university is requiring me to work on the day of my graduation. As a resident advisor, I’m set to graduate in less than two months, but the day of my graduation coincides with the closing of my building, which usually takes the entire day.
My graduation ceremony is in the evening, and I need to be at the venue an hour and a half early for check-in. The university has only allowed graduating RAs two hours off before or after their scheduled time, which means I’d only have half an hour to get ready and make it to the venue. Although I’ve been offered an hour and a half for dinner with my family, they want me to confirm arrangements now.
I’ve discussed this issue with my supervisor and even escalated it, but I’ve been told that extending my time off isn’t possible. I really don’t want to let my coworkers down, but I’ve worked so hard for this day and the thought of spending it checking dorm rooms instead of celebrating with my family is disheartening. As a last resort, I’m considering submitting my two weeks’ notice before graduation.
I would really appreciate any alternative advice or insights! Thank you.
It sounds like you’re in a tough spot, and it’s completely understandable that you want to prioritize your graduation day. Here are a few options to consider before making a decision:
Formal Request: If you haven’t already, consider submitting a formal request for an exception regarding your time off. Explain how important this day is to you and the conflicts it poses. Sometimes a formal request can be taken more seriously.
Seek Support: Talk to other RAs or friends who might be in similar positions. If there’s a group of you affected by this, a joint approach to management may carry more weight.
Compromise Solutions: Suggest a compromise where you can shift your duties slightly earlier or later, or cover responsibilities in a different way that could ease the burden on your coworkers. For instance, could you check out earlier in the day and have a brief overlap with someone else?
Know Your Rights: Look into your university’s policies regarding work and scheduled events like graduation. Sometimes universities have protocols for situations like this, and you could use this to advocate for yourself.
Prioritize: Ultimately, consider what’s most important to you. If attending your graduation and spending time with family is a priority, resigning might not be a bad decision if no reasonable solution is reached.
Consider the Future: Keep in mind how quitting now might affect your future references from the job. If you do decide to leave, express gratitude for the experience you had as an RA in your resignation letter.
Make sure to weigh your options carefully, and whatever you decide, make sure it aligns with what will make you happiest on your graduation day. Good luck!