I just left a 9-5 job, and started my first week at a new job with much better pay. However, I was informed, rather agressively, that my request to continue working an 8 hour day would not only be denied, but was also “illegal.” They want me to take an hour unpaid lunch, but said they may be flexible with a half hour lunch.
In all my previous roles, I had never had unpaid lunch and I was out the door after 8 hours. I explained that I have many personal reasons for needing to cap my day at 8 hours (I'm a part-time grad student, I have an anxious pet at home, I carpool with someone and need to be considerate of their time, work-life balance, mental health, etc.). They did not care and continued to tell me that my previous place of employment had broken the law. Oh and I must NOT eat at my desk when I take lunch. I have to find another place to sit and eat…
What's up with this? To give you context, I work at a large university. Do I not have a right to work through my lunch? Am I out of line in this situation? I honestly am accustomed to eating and multi-tasking work, and I am fine with that if it means it does not extend my work day.
Thanks in advance for any insight. I appreciate this group!