March 26|2008

Dear Jancy:  Is it possible, particularly for a junior, to avoid projects that one would have a moral objection to doing? By this I mean cigarette ads, political PSA's that you disagree with, or a political group whose ideology you're opposed to. What does one do in these situations? Try to weasel out, flat-out refuse, or just do it anyway and make peace with it later?

It never hurts to ask your CD if someone else could take on the project based on your conflict. Most CD's would much prefer to get someone else if they can---they don't want to deliver work that's compromised by a bad attitude. It is tough to flat out refuse. You're better to say honestly you're concerned that your deeply negative feelings would make it difficult to do your very best. If the CD isn't able or willing to take it off your plate, do it and move on, if you can. If you can't---be prepared to work elsewhere. Janet took the big stand herself and lived.