While there are some cases where we could disregard or sacrifice our values, there are also some that we always consider when making decisions. As Hoch (2001) states, protected values are considered absolute and inviolable (p. 251). Personal values can be defined differently from person to person, and are often times related to past experiences or beliefs.
Perhaps the most important protected value I possess is to do what I believe is right. As an academic advisor, I make decisions all the time. While there are curricular standards and procedures I must follow, I also have the opportunity to add some creativity and autonomy to my decision-making. A common example of when I consider this value is when I have prospective students with on-campus courses as their most or only preferred modality. While there are a rare few that prefer this modality and really care about their education, many of them only prefer on-campus courses for the sakes of their personal benefits (they get paid more for on-campus courses). Despite the importance of increasing student population, I usually tell these students straight out that we may not be the right campus for them: as my university is shifting more towards online courses. The good thing about this value is that I have informed the student to help minimize or completely avoided the chances of dealing with arguments and other complications in the future. The downside to this however is that there are procedures and standards that I must follow, and if I break or oppose to any of them, I could deal with further consequences.
Students themselves are another protected value that I deeply consider. Despite the procedures, standards, and university preferences, there are some cases where the university’s way of doing things don’t mix well with the student. The preference in phones are a great example. My university encourages staff members to call students to not only notify students in urgent situations, but to inform them with general information such as what courses and new degree programs we’re offering. As a full-time worker and current student myself, I already receive such information repetitively through our university website and email subscriptions. With more than 90% of my student population working at Boeing and their sub-companies, I also believe that calling them while working is very disruptive. This value has allowed me to think from others’ point-of-views: which could help make more effective decision-making. Similar to the previous example, following this value may put me at risk for the company.
The last value that I always consider and ensure is quality output. From past experiences, I’ve had advisors who has rushed their advisement: leading me to struggle (problems grow later when coming back to them) and believe that my success doesn’t matter. Now that I’m an advisor myself, I always ensure that I thoroughly examine and think things over despite the amount of time I have. With this value, I had made students very satisfied and well-informed about their situation. The only thing I need to be careful however is to don’t always disregard time: as some students may need the information for other purposes (such as needing the information for work purposes).
References:
Hoch, S. J., Kunreuther, H. C., & Gunther, R. E. (2001). Making Decisions. Hoboken, NJ: John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
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