Assistantship news

I’ve written previously, that I was accepted to Penn State U-Park to study for my PhD in Adult and Continuing Education, with a minor in Women’s Studies.  I also reported that I was turned down for an assistantship, which meant I was responsible for tuition, expenses… everything.  I wrote about how I didn’t know how I’d afford it, and boo hoo and such.  I wrote about knocking on doors, and phone calls, etc.

Worrying has caused sleepless nights, and deep depression.  Like that's anything new.

Friday night- going to sing karaoke

Well, I received an email in late June which read (I part) the following:

The faculty really appreciate your dedication to our program, despite financial uncertainties. We had a discussion about this and have all agreed that our program will offer you a GA position for next year...you are guaranteed a GA position with a faculty in our program at 20 hours a week, which pays a stipend and tuition.

A few emails back and forth, and, as of Friday, July 5, 2019, I received a signed document stating that I officially have that assistantship.  And the “Meager pay” I always heard about?  It’s more than I was paid per month at the book store after 14 years of service.  Seriously. 

This appointment covers my first year of study: fall and spring semesters. 

So in mid-August, I’ll move back to State College.  Yes, my roomie/bestie the Internet Sensation Linda Lewis is coming as well.  She’s already started the job search.   We found an apartment just north of campus already.  I'm too old for the party scene, and I know how noisy it can be in town on some nights.

That said, this will be the furthest away from Wife and Daughter that I have lived since Daughter was born.  Two and a half hours.  I barely see her now as it is.  Wife says they'll come up twice a month.  I hope she does, but I wouldn't be surprised if that peters out. 

In any case, the assistantship is good news.  I'll take it.

Be well.