Pros
Working for a smaller institution has proved as enlightening as I assumed it would. What surprised me most about Midstate is that regardless of the current dip in enrollment experienced country-wide, administration has refused to forfeit the culture of comfort that its employees have come to know.
Each of my coworkers are responsible for challenging and ambitious job functions--many individuals' positions would be difficult to fill with two or three new-hires. As a result, much of the "magical mystery" of what work occurs during a normal business day elsewhere, is here transparent. Growth while working at Midstate College is not an option, it is ensured-- and while the challenging but rewarding work guarantees it, the close-knit atmosphere makes it pleasant. The benefits, ranging from great 401(k) matching to waived tuition for my immediate family, are certainly nothing to complain about either. I may even take them up on tuition reimbursement towards my post-graduate degree in the future, as many of my coworkers have.
Sense of accomplishment is important, but so is balance. Midstate gives more than adequate vacation time and was extremely flexible during what was, to my family, a time of certain tragedy. I am forever loyal to Midstate, as it is to its students and alumni.
All I can speak to is my experience, and I'm glad to have experienced Midstate.
Cons
In my world, there are very few cons at Midstate. It is all a matter of perspective, and one would run into that anywhere.