I worked for a university and I was really struggling. Raises, when I actually got them, did not keep pace with rising costs, so I was getting poorer every year. My boss kept dangling carrots in front of me while being ignorant and abusive.
Then came the big raise. It was announced that they would be raising all salaries to a minimum they determined was a living wage. It was about 6k more than I was making. That’s when it occurred to me that I, after 13 years and 3 promotions, would be earning the same as a new hire.
I gave my notice by email on Black Friday. My boss called me 40 mins later to ask if it was real. I gave 5 weeks notice, not to help them, but because it was a slower time of year and included over a week when they were closed entirely for Christmas.
I left with no job to go to, and instead finally finished my bachelors degree over January session and spring semester as a full time student. After graduation I worked 3 part time jobs. It was grueling but still better than my previous job. Then I got hired at my current job, and I’m very happy here. I understand bid for the job as there was a lot for me to learn, and my boss has taught me a ton, so I plan to ask for a fairly significant raise when I hit 1 year. Still, it’s a living wage now.
Then I got the greatest call from my former coworker (now friend). Apparently no one wants to work for our former boss and has quit, and he’s willing to beat our current salaries to get us back. I laughed so hard! I also had some choice words I won’t repeat here. I will never work for that man again.