Toxic workspace - Administrative Assistant Penn State Employee Review

1.0
Mar 24, 2023
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Excellent benefits Education opportunities Room for growth

Cons

A very cliquish environment. Leadership was less than to be desired. Toxic managers, and colleagues. This is specific to my department and immediate team. I know other departments at the university that were amazing and had the best community. My department was focused on mental health, compassion, and mindfulness... I was so excited to be part of their headlining work but was so let down. The pillars of this department felt like a lie, as I never felt welcomed since the day I started. I did learn from this experience always to advocate. I wouldn't say I like confrontation but avoiding it didn't help. It was the worst six months.

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5.0
Jun 10, 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
Jun 9, 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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