SO. GUESS WHAT?
The short story is that I was contacted last Friday night by one of their top administrators. We ended up getting in touch on Saturday, talked a bit about my work and then BAM! "The reason I'm calling is because you're going to receive information about a fully-funded assistantship..." At that point I think I actually heard neurons popping in my brain. So we talked a bit more and she expressed that they think I'll be a really good fit for them, I expressed that I wanted to visit, and it was like, "Alright, cool, we'll be in touch."
We ended up talking again on Thursday and I received a PDF of the official offer via e-mail. Basically, the offer is wonderful. More wonderful is what we've spoken about to this point. Right now my 20 hours of work per week is not defined -- what would happen is that I'll report to a single professor, but my work might be all over the place. I'll likely teach a class (yay!) and also assist someone with their research. What's really cool is that the person I've been in touch with is also high-ranking in the center for sports journalism, and they're apparently really excited about the possibility of getting me involved in the work they do.
Basically, it sounds like I know where I'm going to be come August. Although I haven't heard from a few schools, I can't imagine their opportunities being more suited for me than this. Right now,
As such, stay tuned! I'll likely make my first visit to the campus in early April. Unfortunately I can't be there for the Rick Reilly event on April 8, but I have a thesis to defend that day.
And for those of you whose cats are killed by curiosity, some links for your viewing pleasure:
- John Curley Center for Sports Journalism
- Sports, Media and Society Blog
- Center for Sports Business and Research
- Penn State Institute for Sports Law, Policy, and Research
- Mel(li) :)
*ETA: Rookie Mel just learned that it's either Penn State or PSU, not "Penn." Glad I learned that one before going up there!
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6 comments:
Very cool Melli! I'm so proud of you! Maybe I'll have to come visit -- I read something in your last blog about a creamery?!?! LOL ;)
Hi Mel,
You are awesome! A point of distinction from a PA native -- Penn State is ALWAYS referred to as "Penn State" or "PSU." "Penn" is that little school in Philly, called "University of Pennsylvania." Not really a big deal, but just giving you some early indoctrination into PA lore.
Also, you're going to love PA for the culture too. It's full of laidback, yet hardworking people who value determination: all the qualities you've been displaying over the last handful of years.
Penn State is lucky to have you (and I'll temporarily suspend my hatred of all things PSU since you're going to be there).
Allison, you should totally come visit! How much fun would that be?
And Bob... WHOOPS! Thanks for letting me know that bit of information. I'm glad I was told now instead of while I was up there. How shame-inducing would that have been? :D I will say that I greatly appreciate (and got a hell of a laugh out of) the fact that you'll temporarily suspend your PSU hatred. That means a lot to me coming from you! How much fun is this going to be? I can hardly wait to start.
I am so excited and proud. My mother said, "I am almost as proud of her as her mother is". So we will all go out and celebrate after the thesis is defended. The four of us for a nice lunch/dinner.
Love you!
Pattilicious!
Aww, thanks Pattilicious and Mom! We'll definitely have to go out when this thesis is defended. I can hardly wait!
Love you!
Congrats, Mel! I'm so excited and happy for you! I've been following this blog for a while - well - ever since you deleted your LJ. Yay for you!!! :o)
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