Just Ask Jenna Looks at the Unequal Side of Group Work

by Jenna C, ’26

Dear Jenna, 

I like being involved in group work at school, but I always end up doing way more than everyone else because I want the project to turn out well. I am starting to feel used. How do I speak up without sounding controlling?

Sincerely,

A Feeling Used Student

Dear Feeling Used Student,

Your situation is very common. When you consistently take on more than your share because you want the project to turn out well, the group starts to lean on you. In economics, this fits the free-rider problem. When one person always steps up, others feel like they can step back because the work will still get done. 

This shows up all the time in school and even in jobs. Once a group realizes someone handles the hard parts, people naturally stop contributing as much. It usually isn’t on purpose. It’s just how group dynamics shift when one person becomes the reliable one. 

A good way to deal with this is to add a check-in. At the end of class, have everyone share what they worked on. When people know they’ll need to say something out loud, they’re more likely to stay engaged and actually do their part. It helps the group feel balanced without you having to call anyone out about it. 

It’s great that you care about the work, but you shouldn’t have to carry it alone. 

Best of luck!

Jenna 

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