cc_401's journey

I've been working the overnight shift from 10:30 PM to 6:30 AM for almost a year now. Recently, I was offered a promotion, which I was excited about, but I have some concerns. I mentioned to my employer that I can only work until 7 AM at the latest because I need to take my kids to school right after my shift. My job sometimes requires me to work events, and while I've managed to find childcare for those, they recently posted a notice indicating that all third shift employees are required to attend an event next week starting at 2 PM. This poses a significant problem for me since I would finish my shift at 6:30 AM, then have to return at 2 PM, which gives me very little time to rest and no time to arrange childcare. If I refuse to attend, I risk getting written up, which could jeopardize the promotion that comes with a nearly 30% raise. I'm in a tough spot because I really need that raise, but I can't justify the hours and the lack of childcare.

I'm currently working a custodial job at my local college, and to be honest, it's been pretty boring lately. With the school year on pause, I'm stuck cleaning the same 4 bathrooms, 4 offices, 1 break room, and 11 classrooms, and there's hardly anything to do since there are no students around. I could ask my manager for more tasks, but at $12/hr, I'm not inclined to overextend myself for such low pay. Instead, I've been passing the time scrolling through social media, applying for jobs, and updating my resume. I've even saved a few job listings but I'm hesitant to apply. I'm looking for ways to fill the time and maybe even find a random certification that could help me land a better job. If anyone has tips on how to make this time more productive or suggestions for certifications, I would really appreciate it!