u/Cute-Shallot-6143

Hi all, I am looking for TT/Tenured faculty perspectives on long-term benefits of a position at Cal Poly SLO.

I am currently in the application process for an open position at SLO, and I am wondering if anyone can shed any insight on salary increases / cost of living adjustments and caps or how that is calculated, retirement benefits and vesting (time period + what that looks like the long run), pension and how that works/is calculated, any other benefits that might not be immediately visible such as reduced faculty tuition, travel stipends for conferences or other scholarly output, spousal hire/placement etc. (if any of these are even possible / applicable).

I am also hoping to get more information on locations for living situations - beyond just “everything is expensive”. I lived in San Francisco for a decade and am very familiar with the costs of residing in CA, but I am curious to hear about what neighborhoods might be less student-dense and more slower paced.

For context: I am currently in a tenure-track role in a LCOL R1 university (going up next year, all green lights by the sounds of things + my research output), but I have always been primarily enthralled with the teaching side of things rather than the rat race of research. This opportunity seems like a dream come true, and perfectly slots into my teaching, life, and experiential interests. Any insight that can be provided would be much appreciated! Thanks in advance.

Hi all, looking for some advice and sharing of similar stories to guide a decision I am considering.

I currently live in a LCOL college town working at an R1 university in the U.S., STEM field focused on design and environments, tenure track (going up next year). I am applying to a position in a HCOL location, which is also a college town, with many more opportunities for things I enjoy doing outside of work. It also does not hurt that the salary increase is close to 45%, though my expenses would be close to triple what I am paying now. The job also is more in line with what I see myself doing long term.

I know as I write it out it seems that the answer to move is a definite yes, but I am curious to hear other people’s stories under similar circumstances, and any feedback / lessons learned from doing so. I am wondering whether this move is feasible and if I can swing it. Is it worth it to make the switch now? Is it better to wait for tenure to go through and then decide to make a move? (My current institution will in no way match the salary increase, as with many places we are undergoing “financial restructuring”). I am happy to provide more info as needed. Thanks in advance !