January 25, 2011

  • Ethical Dilemma

    So the past week, I have been faced with a minor problem that I am taking to heart. As I have mentioned, I recently finished volunteering at the Body World Exhibit, however, I am not sure if I have mentioned the part where I --unexpectedly-- got "promoted" as a team leader. Of course, during the duration of my time as the team leader volunteer, not everything went as I had wanted it to-- which I did expect--. Often than not, the girls who are in high school, and are in fact volunteering because they need to, would show up late or not at all. Now, as I have predicted, one of them, who I firmly believe was very notorious for ditching, came asking for a reference letter from the Volunteer Coordinator, who in turn asked me to write it for her. 

    I honestly deliberated long and hard about this matter, especially since she is applying for a very incredible, potentially life altering scholarship, that I can't even dare to dream of. I didn't want to be that person to ruin this chance for her. Also, before I go on, keep in mind that I truly think highly of these kids, they are just the smartest, high achiever bunch I could only wish myself to be. Even then, I firmly believe that she doesn't deserve a reference letter from me. I did consider taking the easier route and just write it, but how is she supposed to learn? Not only would the letter be fraudulent and dishonest, but how about the other candidate who actually put in the work? To be honest, I don't think my refusing to writing the letter will affect this girl that much (I hope anyway). I think that beside from  this volunteer, she has other experiences and qualifications, enough to fill a few pages of paper and to greatly put my own resume to shame. But I still can't help but feel like the bad guy even though I'm not trying to be. Also, it is very hard to keep justified when the other party is being courteous, apologetic and unoffensive. We'll see how it goes, but I sincerely wish her all the luck in the word.

     

    -Elle Are Emm

     

    PS: Yes, I know and was personally told by a friend that my "problems" are very easy and simplistic. But you know what, I like it that way.