Great experience but FT are bottom of social ladder - Fixed Term Faculty Penn State Employee Review

4.0
23 Jun 2020
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

For being a large research focused university, they are actually focused on students and teaching. Great colleagues and supervisors who care and are supportive. Access to any technology you want for your class, research/projects you want to work on, and access to any expert you could ever want. It's all at your fingertips.

Cons

Despite PSU relying heavily on fixed term faculty (in most colleges the majority of faculty are FT), it is made VERY clear that you are at the bottom of the PSU ladder. What you have to say does not matter. But if a tenured faculty says the same thing, oh Lord, what a great idea! At least for FT teaching faculty, your job is strictly to teach. Research and publication is NOT part of your contract, which may be fine for some folks, but need to remember that lack of research and publications is going to hurt you when looking for another position. New FT contract is BS. States that the college/university can terminate you with only 12 weeks notice. WTH is the point in a yearly or multiyear contract!? FT faculty were NOT consulted on this, the change was just made.

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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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