Good place to work just for a few years - Graduate Research Assistant Penn State Employee Review

4.0
3 Aug 2010
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Great university and excellent infrastructures and locations. State College is one of the safest places to live in the USA. Medical/Dental benefits are also excellent and generous. Professors and academic directors are always aware of the good work.

Cons

The pay is very low, even though private industry sponsors most of the projects and Leader Investigators receive a good portion of it. Besides being low, the are never adjusted even for the annual inflation rate, which is just unfair. Things don't move very quickly and the opportunities to grow to upper levels are very very limited.

Explore other reviews about Penn State

5.0
10 June 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

I enjoyed working at outpost, it felt a lot more relaxed not including the rush and I could joke around with staff.

Cons

Stacks felt like alot more pressure that I had to get everything right and that I was always being watched.

4.0
9 June 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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