If students were the only part of the job, it would be great - Academic Advisor Penn State Employee Review

1.0
17 Oct 2020
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Good pay. For the most part State College is a nice place to live. Students on a whole were the best part of the job and a joy to work with.

Cons

I'm sure your experience depends on your department. I was thrown in with minimal training, infrequent and inconsistent communication, and a sort of cattiness for anyone perceived "other" from their cliques. It was difficult being one of the few people in my department with a degree in Higher Ed. Some chose to take that as a threat and the targeting was obvious. The supervisors have degrees in seemingly random areas and often times admit they're not even sure what standard practice in the department should look like. Practices at this university favor sports and anything that gets them more money-- the success and well being of students comes second, always. If you do what's best for the student, but that does not fit their traditional script they've been using since the University was built, you'll be reprimanded. They do not care a lick about research-based practices and you will likely find yourself punished if you offer to present the data. I left when I realized this university does not share my ethical or educational values.

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

5.0
19 Jun 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

My supervisor was fantastic: provided good feedback, flexibility in work schedule, opportunities for professional growth.

Cons

Usually 1-2 year contract, determined by grant funding and availability Workplace experience is more dependent on the individual researcher/research lab you end up working for than the university as a whole

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