Funding Crisis - Graduate Research Assistant Penn State Employee Review

1.0
23 Jul 2016
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

State College is a nice quiet and a quite safe place to reside in.

Cons

Department offers admission to more students than available funded projects and later just fail students during candidacy exam. Work environment is not friendly. Most students are international who are already too invested to go back home and so they are desperate and would do anything to survive the job. Publications are also very difficult to get so it is hard to show any accomplishments.

Explore other reviews about Penn State

5.0
21 Jun 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Friendly professor and professional staff

Cons

Reassignment can take longer and can be a tedious process

4.0
9 Jun 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Meaningful mission supporting community education and outreach programs. Gained valuable administrative and clerical experience, including scheduling, data entry, records management, and event coordination. Developed strong customer service and communication skills by assisting educators and community members. Worked for a well-respected public institution, which looks good on a resume. Opportunity to support nutrition education and public health initiatives, contributing to positive community outcomes.

Cons

Pay was very low compared to the responsibilities and cost of living. Limited opportunities for career advancement without changing positions or departments. Administrative work could become repetitive at times. Salary growth and raises were relatively modest.

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