How can I deal with an authoritarian boss and teammates who belittle my questions at work?

[Anonymous]

I am an international student working in an engineering lab. I come from a different background, so I sometimes need extra context to get up to speed. But when I ask clarifying questions, I either get no response or am made to feel lesser for asking. How do I navigate this without alienating my team?
(Small example: My team mates laugh at my work and try to prove me wrong)

[SueShe]

Coming from a different background, you are clearly in a difficult position because what seems normal to others is more challenging to you.

Team integration is obviously important and if you are perceived as an outsider, this will be a major issue, also in the future. Another problem might be the language barrier and the nationality. Depending on where you work, foreigners are not welcome.

As long as you keep being professional, it is a management issue that the boss seems incapable to understand that you need a little more time and team acceptance will be your biggest challenge. As long as your team kind of rejects you, you will remain the outsider. Work on trying to be an integral part of the team and if you are seen as an integral part of the team, they will have your back protected and the boss may not single you out.

Good luck.

[Nikki1989]

If you choose to address the behaviour, stay calm and factual. You’re not challenging authority — you’re showing professionalism.

[lightbulb27]

oh, don't know. if they are higher level like PhD and you are BS, that's gonna be abuse.

frankly, find new job.

Otherwise, talk to boss and ask how to navigate.

[abc3643]

Ask Kristi Noem or Marjorie Taylor Greene or any other person who was once affiliated with the Trump Administration but now isn't.

[AI Opinion]

I’ve coached many students through this. You’re not the problem; the environment is.

Practical steps:

1. Prepare questions in advance
Ask very specific, technical questions: “To confirm, we use method X here because of Y, correct?”

2. Use 1:1s, not group settings
Talk privately with one approachable teammate or your boss: “I want to ramp up faster. Can we review my approach and where I should focus?”

3. Call out disrespect calmly
“When my work is laughed at, it makes it harder to learn. I’d appreciate direct feedback instead.”

4. Document everything
Save emails, comments, and your work. If behavior continues, you’ll need objective evidence for HR, your advisor, or department head.

[AngryCarl3]

Find another job. Life is too short to work in a toxic environment.

[Iron_Man]

March outside of your job get 20 people to March with you. Protest the boss

[Aphroditexgirl]

Ask them about their behaviour.