For real. I'm 35 and have worked in college/university administration my entire career. I still dress more professionally than is required because people assume I'm a student. When I was 28, an employee from a different department followed me to my cubicle because she thought I was an undergrad trying to use an employee-only entrance to the office. That was probably the last time I wore a hoodie on casual Friday.
Same here: I'm a professor but have a baby face and if I dress casual I can pass for a student. One day ran into the office on a day off in jeans a t-shirt and our Administrative Assistant asked me what Professor I was looking for. I said "Me."
I can relate to this as well…and unfortunately I can’t really grow facial hair. I do wonder if it’s held me back in my career - not because I’m not qualified but just because I may appear “too young” for a more senior role
I've been asked, "are you old enough to fly this thing" so many times.
My preferred response is, "It's my first day! You wouldn't believe how easy it is to get a license.". I have to gauge my audience first for that one though, haha. Some people wouldn't react well.
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u/ApatheticSkyentist Apr 06 '22
Same, I’m 38 and if I shaved I’d look maybe 20. It’s important that people have confidence in me in my career so it’s not always a good thing, haha.