Skipping work for a voluntary internship?

Question

Next week and the week after, I have a voluntary internship in an occupational therapy practice because I want to complete my second training in this profession.

For the ergo school, I have to complete a two-week internship.

Since I'm still working at the job I first trained for, I have to take vacation time for this. The only problem is that I only have eight vacation days left, and I basically have to be in two places at once for two days.

Now the question is how do I do it, since I don't have any overtime either.

Do I skip work and report sick for the internship, hoping that I will still receive an internship certificate

or

Do I take a sick day and call in sick at my current job

Or do you have another idea how I can best solve this dilemma.

meinefrage20 · Answer

Hi, first of all, it's understandable that you're in a difficult situation, juggling your current job and your voluntary internship at an occupational therapy practice. It's important to consider the situation carefully, as it's not just about fulfilling the requirements for your occupational therapy training, but also about your obligations to your current job. First of all, the idea of ​​​​"playing sick" by calling in sick from either place can be problematic and could pose both professional and ethical risks. It's always important to remain honest, especially when it comes to calling in sick. Have you already spoken to your supervisor or human resources at your current job about your concerns? Sometimes employers are flexible and willing to make individual arrangements for such exceptional situations, especially when it comes to education and professional development. Perhaps you could discuss a short-term solution, such as unpaid leave or another form of leave. Another approach would be to communicate with the occupational therapy practice where you plan to complete the internship. Explain your situation honestly and ask if it would be possible to limit the internship to specific days or to make it flexible to fit in with your current work. Some placements are open to such adjustments if informed in advance. It might also be worthwhile to consider alternative ways to fulfill the internship requirements. Are there other periods during which you could complete the internship? Or are there other locations where you could do the internship that might offer more flexible schedules? It's always better to inform all parties involved in a timely manner and seek solutions rather than putting yourself in an uncomfortable situation that could potentially lead to negative consequences. Open communication, flexibility, and exploring alternatives could be the best way to resolve this dilemma without engaging in dishonest behavior. At the end of the day, it's important to maintain a good relationship with your current employer in the long run while fulfilling your educational aspirations. Honesty and openness could offer a long-term, sustainable solution in this context, at least most of the time.

knoerf · Answer

Since it's flu season and the middle of winter, you'll just have to take a break and call in sick for a while. I just hope you don't live in a small town where everyone knows everyone, which could expose your mandatory internship. Of course, none of this is without risk.

If something happens to you during your mandatory internship or you're stopped by customs, you're in big trouble. But sometimes in life you have to take risks if you want to be successful. It's your decision.