I just got fired today immediately with no warning. I worked for a company where I’ve been for the last two months. My manager who I never met until today has been absolutely horrible since the first day I got hired. She’s been investigated for breaching so many company policies and has been horrible to work with. However the work I did was good, fulfilling and well compensated so I was willing to put up with it. My manager currently has investigations on her from HR so it doesn’t help that we don’t get along. It seems like she is trying to get rid of anyone that gives her a hard time and that included me.
2 months in and fired, was told it was because of my attendance. However I had never missed a day of work. They were referring to a day I was scheduled that I didn’t call or show up for. I didn’t show up for that day because my manager agreed to give that day off (I even had her in writing that she did gave it to me off) well she claims she doesn’t remember and painted me to HR that I just didn’t want to work that day. 2 Months of work and I am fired just liked that, one of month was spent traveling across the state working on campaigns which I was doing pretty good. Couldn’t even defend myself just had to sit there and take it, nothing I could say would change their minds HR had already made the decision with my manager behind me with the biggest smile on her face.
It was sad and humiliating, I had never experienced this before. I left a perfectly comfortable job for this for the pay just to get the boot now I have nothing. All of my colleagues are in shock because they know me as a worker, my staff union is working hard to get me reinstated but it probably won’t happen as I was in my probationary period. Just like that, the connections I made with my community, the contacts and the friendships I made with other colleagues around the state gone. I am 24 so I am young but man that salary was good and the job was so fun. It would be such a good boost in my career to have it under my resume. Don’t know what to do now, I had a vacation planned for next month that I am cancelling now. It feels so humiliating.
Jobadvisor
That's an incredibly tough and unfair situation, and it's completely understandable that you're feeling sad, humiliated, and lost right now. Getting fired, especially under such circumstances and with such little time at a new role, can be a huge blow. Please know that this is not a reflection of your worth or your abilities as an employee, especially given the context of your manager's behavior and the HR investigations.
It sounds like you were doing great work and had a good rapport with your colleagues, which speaks volumes. The fact that your union is fighting for you also indicates that others recognize your value.
Let's break down some steps you can take. It's important to allow yourself to process the emotions, but also to start building a path forward.
Acknowledge and Process Your Feelings: It's okay to feel angry, frustrated, sad, or confused. Don't suppress these emotions. Talk to a trusted friend, family member, or even a therapist if you feel it would help. Write down what happened and how you feel. This was a traumatic experience, and giving yourself space to grieve the loss of the job and the future you envisioned with it is crucial.
Gather Documentation (If You Haven't Already):
You mentioned having your manager's agreement in writing for the day off. This is critical. Make sure you have this securely saved.
Any other performance reviews, positive feedback, or communications that contradict their reason for termination.
Documentation of your manager's previous policy breaches or HR investigations (if you have access to general knowledge about them, without breaching privacy).
Keep records of your actual work dates and times if possible.
Understand Your Severance and Benefits:
Did they offer severance? Understand the terms.
What about your final paycheck? Unused vacation time (if applicable)?
Information on health insurance (COBRA options in the US, or equivalents elsewhere).
Information on unemployment benefits. Apply for unemployment as soon as possible. Even if you're unsure if you'll qualify, apply anyway. Let the state decide.
Connect with Your Union:
Since your union is working on your behalf, stay in close communication with them. Provide them with all your documentation, especially the written proof of your day off. They are your best advocate in this situation.
Even if reinstatement seems unlikely due to the probationary period, they might be able to negotiate a better severance package or ensure the company follows proper termination procedures.
Strategize Your Job Search:
Resume/CV Update: Immediately update your resume. Focus on the accomplishments and skills you gained in those two months, especially the campaign work and connections. Frame your experience positively.
Networking: Leverage those connections you made! Reach out to former colleagues from both this company and your previous "comfortable" job. Let them know you're looking for new opportunities. They know your work ethic.
Practice Your Story: You'll need a concise, professional, and non-emotional way to explain this short tenure in future interviews. Something like: "While my recent role ended sooner than anticipated due to a misalignment with management's expectations regarding a scheduling discrepancy, I gained valuable experience in [mention specific achievements like campaign work, community connections] and am now looking for a role where my [skills] can contribute to a stable team environment." Avoid badmouthing the previous manager, as it can reflect poorly on you.
LinkedIn: Update your profile, adjust your "open to work" status, and connect with people.
Don't Burn Bridges (Even When You Want To): It's incredibly hard, but try to maintain professionalism. You never know when paths might cross again, or when a reference from a neutral colleague could be valuable.
Take Care of Yourself:
Your vacation might be canceled, but find other ways to relax and de-stress. Go for walks, read a book, spend time with loved ones.
Maintain a routine. Getting up, getting dressed, and tackling your job search can help restore a sense of control.
Consider Your Options Regarding the Company:
Beyond the union, you could potentially speak with a labor lawyer, especially if you believe you were unfairly terminated, have strong documentation, and there's a pattern of your manager's behavior. A lawyer can advise you on whether you have a case. Given the HR investigations into your manager, there might be more to this story internally.
This experience is a setback, but it doesn't define your career or your future. You're young, you're capable, and you have good experience. This is a chance to find an even better fit with a company that values and respects its employees.
Help! I keep getting ghosted by recruiters.
About 3 weeks ago, I signed an offer letter for a volunteer position at a clinic. I was told she will text me when to start. Never heard from her.
A week ago, I received a message from Indeed asking me for a more information about my skills and education (I've attached 1 page resume with all that info) still I replied. Nothing.
Last night, I applied a job with cover letter, received an email today asking to schedule an interview. I said I'm flexible so I can go with when works best for the recruiter. That was past noon. I still haven't heard back.
I hate how lukewarm these recruiters are. I'm getting a little frustrated. Why bother posting a job description?
Jobadvisor
That's incredibly frustrating, and your feelings are completely valid. Getting ghosted, especially after you've invested time and hope into an opportunity, is one of the most disheartening parts of job searching. It makes you question everything, and it's certainly not a reflection of your worth or effort.
You're encountering a very common and unfortunate problem in today's job market. Here's a breakdown of why this might be happening and what you can do about it:
Why Recruiters Ghost (and it's usually not about you):
Overwhelm and High Volume: Recruiters often manage hundreds, if not thousands, of applications simultaneously. They simply can't respond to everyone, even those who seem like a good fit.
Internal Changes/Hiring Freezes: The position itself might get put on hold, canceled, or filled internally before the external search progresses much further. Recruiters often don't have the time or information to update every candidate.
Lack of Communication from Hiring Managers: Recruiters are often stuck between candidates and the actual hiring managers. If a hiring manager is slow to provide feedback or make decisions, the recruiter's hands are tied, and they may default to silence rather than giving vague updates.
Inefficient Systems: Some companies have clunky applicant tracking systems (ATS) or poor internal communication processes that make it hard for recruiters to keep up.
Sheer Laziness/Lack of Professionalism: Unfortunately, some recruiters are just not good at their job or lack the professional courtesy to follow up. It's poor form, but it happens.
"Fishing" Expeditions: Sometimes job postings are less about an immediate opening and more about building a pipeline of potential candidates for future roles, or even just gauging market interest/salaries.
What You Can Do About It:
It's tough because a lot of it is out of your control, but you can refine your approach to minimize the impact and maximize your chances:
Follow Up Strategically (But Don't Overdo It):
Volunteer Position: Since you signed an offer, this warrants a more direct follow-up. A polite email (or text, if that's how she communicates) after about a week of silence is appropriate. "Hi [Name], I'm really looking forward to starting with [Clinic Name]. I wanted to follow up on next steps and see when you anticipate my start date might be. Please let me know if there's any information you need from my end. Thanks, [Your Name]." If another few days pass, a second follow-up is reasonable. After that, you might have to assume it's not moving forward, unfortunately.
Indeed Message: After you replied to the skill/education request, if you haven't heard back in a few days to a week, you could send a very brief follow-up: "Hi [Recruiter Name], just checking in on the [Job Title] application. I hope the additional information I provided was helpful. Please let me know if you need anything else."
Interview Scheduling: This one definitely warrants a follow-up. Since you replied "flexible," wait about 24 business hours. Then send an email: "Hi [Recruiter Name], just following up on my availability for an interview for the [Job Title] position. I'm flexible and look forward to hearing about your preferred time slots. Please let me know what works best for you. Thanks, [Your Name]." If another 24-48 business hours pass without a reply, a second polite follow-up is acceptable.
Tailor Your Applications, Even for Volunteer Roles:
You mentioned attaching a one-page resume. That's good! But always ensure your resume and cover letter (if applicable) are specifically tailored to the job description. Generic applications are easier for recruiters to dismiss.
When they ask for "more information," even if it's on your resume, sometimes they're looking for specific keywords or how you articulate it in their system. Copy-pasting from your resume is fine, but make sure it directly addresses what they asked for.
Cast a Wide Net: Don't put all your eggs in one basket. Apply to multiple positions. The more applications you have out, the less crushing each ghosting incident will feel, because you'll have other prospects.
Network Actively: Sometimes going through a direct connection or referral can bypass the initial screening and get your resume directly to a hiring manager, reducing the chances of being ghosted.
Use LinkedIn: Many recruiters live on LinkedIn. Make sure your profile is polished, up-to-date, and reflects your resume. You can sometimes even find the recruiter who posted the job on LinkedIn and send a polite connection request with a short message (though be careful not to spam).
Manage Your Expectations: This is tough, but try to develop a thick skin. Expect to be ghosted more often than not. Any response, even a rejection, is a bonus. Celebrate the small wins, like getting an interview request.
Keep a Job Search Tracker: Maintain a simple spreadsheet with:
Job Title & Company
Date Applied
Platform (Indeed, company site, etc.)
Date of Last Communication
Date of Next Follow-up (if applicable)
Notes
This helps you stay organized and remember when it's appropriate to follow up, and also gives you a sense of control.
You're right to be frustrated. The process is often broken. Keep your head up, keep applying, and focus on the opportunities that do come through. Your persistence will pay off!
Those of you who started their bachelors degree after 25 what are you up to now?
I'm 25 and just lost an awesome job that I was at for the last 3 years. I've been having trouble getting a job that is related to what I was doing despite having experience and I feel like i'm being barred from jobs solely because I don't have a bachelors degree. I've have been reading up on going back to school for biology and i've been seeing a lot of people saying that it's not too late and whatever, but nobody says if they believe it has been beneficial for them or what it has led to in life for them. My biggest fear is going into my 30's with 40k in fresh debt and no real savings from the college life, but i'm also afraid of becoming stagnant in a dead-end job that I hate because I can't get into a field that i'm interested in
So, I'm wondering what starting a career in your 30's is like, do you feel like the debt was a massive hinderance financially? Do you regret your degree or the time you spent getting it? Do you think that there are degrees that arent worth starting this late in life? What was transitioning from working life back to school life like?
Jobadvisor
This is a common and very valid concern, and it's great that you're thinking through the pros and cons so thoroughly. While I can't provide personal anecdotes, the experiences and insights shared by people who have been in a similar situation offer some recurring themes that directly address your questions.
Here's a summary of what those who started their bachelor's degree after 25 often share:
1. Starting a Career in Your 30s
Experience is an Asset: Many non-traditional students find their years of prior work and life experience are a huge advantage. Employers often appreciate the maturity, focus, and practical skills (like time management, professionalism, and group work) that older graduates bring, which can offset the age gap. You're not starting from zero; you're often pivoting or leveling up.
Clearer Goals & Motivation: Unlike many younger students, adult learners typically have a much clearer idea of why they are in school and what specific career path they are aiming for. This strong focus and drive often leads to better academic performance and a more relevant course selection.
It's Common: You are definitely not alone. A significant percentage of undergraduate students are 25 or older, and career changes in the 30s (and beyond) are increasingly common. Many success stories involve people starting in their late 20s or 30s and achieving great careers (e.g., becoming a CPA at 29, or going to dental school and graduating at 37).
2. The Financial Impact of Debt
The Debt is a Factor, but Manageable: The fear of $\$40k$ in debt is real. Many adult learners successfully manage or minimize debt by:
Attending community college first for lower-cost credits.
Working part-time or full-time (though this makes school harder).
Seeking out grants, scholarships, and employer tuition assistance programs.
ROI is Key: The financial burden is often worth it if the degree leads to a significantly higher earning potential or a career with better stability and satisfaction. People who found their degree led to a stable, well-paying job (like accounting/finance, engineering, or a professional/graduate school track) often report that the financial return quickly made the debt manageable.
Delayed Milestones: Some report delaying major financial milestones like homeownership due to debt, but this is a common issue for many graduates, regardless of age. The focus shifts to paying off the debt while enjoying the satisfaction of a career they love.
3. Regret Over the Degree or Time Spent
Low Regret for a Targeted Degree: The general consensus is that those who went back to school with a clear purpose and passion have little to no regret, even if the road was difficult.
High Regret for 'Soft' Degrees without a Plan: People who chose a degree path like Biology often caution that a Bachelor's degree alone may not be sufficient for a high-paying career or for competitive research roles. A Biology BS/BA is frequently seen as a strong pre-professional track (for medical, dental, PA, or graduate school) but can sometimes lead to lower-paying lab tech or government agency jobs without further education (Master's or PhD).
The Lesson: It is crucial to research the return on investment (ROI) for your specific degree choice. Look at job postings for careers you are interested in and see what education level they truly require (Bachelor's, Master's, or specific certifications).
4. Degrees Not Worth Starting This Late
The issue isn't age; it's ROI and Career Ceiling. Degrees that are often cautioned against for anyone if the goal is a rapid, high-paying career are:
Degrees that require an immediate, expensive graduate degree to be functional in the field (unless you are fully committed to that further schooling).
Fields with low entry-level pay and slow growth that might not justify the fresh $\$40k$ in debt.
The Exception: If you are pursuing a degree purely out of passion and have a plan to manage the debt or don't need a high-paying job immediately, then any degree is "worth it." But if financial security is a key goal, focus on degrees with strong market demand (e.g., certain STEM fields, Nursing, Accounting, Engineering, or degrees that leverage your previous work experience).
5. Transitioning from Working Life Back to School
Challenging but Focused: It is widely described as a difficult balancing act, especially if you continue to work or have a family. It requires serious time management and a strong support network.
Maturity Helps: Your life and work experience actually make the studying part easier in many ways. You're more disciplined, better at prioritizing, and less prone to the distractions that affect younger students. You are there to "get things done."
Flexibility is Key: Many non-traditional students succeed by utilizing flexible programs (part-time, evening, online/hybrid classes) to fit education around their existing responsibilities.
In Summary for Your Situation:
Your Fear is Justified (But Actionable): The fear of stagnation or debt is the right motivation to act, but you need to act strategically.
Research Biology's Reality: If you pursue Biology, know that the most beneficial path often involves a commitment to a subsequent graduate or professional program (Med School, Vet School, PhD). If your goal is a job with only a bachelor's, research specific roles and salaries carefully to ensure the payoff justifies the debt.
Harness Your Experience: You are $\mathbf{25}$ with three years of professional experience—that's a huge asset. Your education will be more focused and effective because of it. You are not starting over; you are simply acquiring a required credential.
The time will pass either way. You can be $\mathbf{30}$ with $\$40k$ in debt and a new degree, or $\mathbf{30}$ with no debt but possibly stuck in a job you hate. The key is to maximize the potential of the new degree.