IT support

My office is directly opposite the post/printing room, which means I am the first port of call for anyone with problems there. I have many conversations like this one.

Lecturer: The photocopier's not working.
Me: Have you checked for a jam? Or reported it?
Lecturer: Can't you do that?
Me: Well, there's a phone right by the copier, with the phone number printed next to it, so that people can report it themselves.
Lecturer: I've got to go to a lecture. [Departs]
Me: *sigh*

The blackmail factor

Prof: I have to read the names at graduation next week, can I book a half-hour slot with you to go through the pronunciations?
Me: Yes, of course.

(That really isn't in the job description, but I studied linguistics and it's an enjoyable task.)

Prof: I told the head of school today how useful you are, above and beyond the call of admin duty. He said he remembers you. You've seen him fall asleep on the train.
Me: I wonder whether I can get a regrade on the back of that?

Please check your work

Prof: This meeting this afternoon, I need these papers for it - can you photocopy them for me?
Me: Sure. How many?
Prof: Oh, say, 10 copies?
Me: Fine, I'll do it now.

I set the copying going and start another job.

10 mins pass.

Prof: That copying...
Me: Yes, I've done it.
Prof: Oh. I think I included an incorrect page.
Me: Oh. Well, there it is.

Moral: before asking someone else to do your copying, check you're giving them the right papers. I hardly have enough time to do my work properly, let alone to do your work twice.

Room bookings

08:15 Knock-knock at the door.

Prof: Hey, I'm doing a PhD viva this morning, and I just wondered, who's supposed to book a room for that? Is it the internal examiner?

Me: Ideally the PGR office.

Prof: Because we'll need a room at 11am. I suppose we could use an office but...

Me: Ring PGR, and get back to me if you need help.

Because in the middle of a busy teaching day I am sure to be able to conjure up a suitable room with an hour's notice.