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      Decentralized Bureaucratic Nightmare - Graduate Research Assistant Harvard University Employee Review

      2.0
      Oct 25, 2012
      Graduate research assistant
      Recommend
      CEO approval
      Business Outlook

      Pros

      There are some brilliant people around, who can be very inspiring. The university also has one of the best library systems in the world, which is a true perk of working here. There are also lectures on every conceivable topic all the time, so it's a great place to be if you believe in lifelong education.

      Cons

      For every brilliant academic at the university, there are 10 arrogant ones who blatantly disrespect each other and the staff. Nothing works efficiently at the university, and there is a real lack of communication among people, departments, programs, etc. It's a real nightmare at times.

      Explore other reviews about Harvard University

      5.0
      Jul 13, 2026
      Peer advising fellow
      Recommend
      CEO approval
      Business Outlook

      Pros

      Light work if you have the right team

      Cons

      Low pay for amount of work

      2.0
      Jun 30, 2026
      Coordinator
      Recommend
      CEO approval
      Business Outlook

      Pros

      Great Union and benefits for non-profits/higher ed. Wonderful colleagues outside of leadership!

      Cons

      GSD Development and Alumni Relations (under current leadership) is an incredibly toxic work environment. I didn't realize the intensity of the toll it took on my until after leaving, and I am not one to leave a negative review, but as they are hiring for several positions currently, I wish to share words of caution with applicants. Cons: - Absolutely not a safe space for anyone who is Black, brown, trans, queer, working-class, or disabled - 100% top-down direction. No room for personal exploration, initiative, or creativity. - Minimal guidance from leadership - Frequent pivots, even in the late stages of projects - Petty, immature talking behind your back by leadership - No upward mobility unless the Associate Dean or Dean like you - Deeply disingenuous comments, reflections, and feedback from leadership - Complete lack of transparency on direction, goals, etc. - Small mistakes are made cornerstones of performance evaluations, while leadership routinely missteps. Leadership never takes accountability. - Top-down policy decisions, completely lacking detail, thought, and care outside of legal ramifications - Ever-changing in-office requirements

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