Should I take a great job offer if the commute is a little over an hour? (Pennsylvania=snow in winter)?

Question

The job is with Penn State University, so there is great potential for future movement. However, most people (including my family) are discouraging it.

Answer 1

It really depends on a few factors. First of all, is it worth it to pay for the gas. Every time we travel we notice that PA is more expensive for gas, than most others. Secondly, PA winters can get horrible, especially there in the mountains. I went to school in PA-Wilkes-Berre (farther east from state college) and i tried going to my parents house for christmas. On my way back I got caught in a blizzard! On route 80! At the junction for the PA turnpike, they closed the whole road. I had to sit (and sleep) in my car for 27 hours before they were able to open it again. If you can afford gas, and get through the snow, take it.

Good luck!

Answer 2

all honestly if you can move closer than it would be worth it.  gas might spike up even more if i heard was true.

Answer 3

What roads would you need to commute on?  The turnpike to 76 or the Schuylkill whatever it is - they are actually really good about clearing those right away.  Also, when you say the commute is an hour, how far are you actually going?  I lived about 10 miles from UPenn when I worked there - it took me an hour - for the traffic then to find parking and walk  or get the shuttle the rest of the way.  I think they have since put in new garages for employees, so it might be OK.  So, it depends on you - not your family.  Are you financially able to make the commute?  Don't forget that the city wage tax is there and will take more out of your paycheck than what you are used to if you don't work in Philadelphia.  Also, you may want to check your commute time by driving there at both times of the day - that you would normally be going.  If your interview was not in rush hour, you may not have a true sense of the commute time.  Do what you think is best.  Even if you take it and if it works out, move closer and if it doesn't start looking again.

Good Luck!

Answer 4

take the great job. and dont look back. but you should also move so that your commute is less than 15 minutes. I have not seen the winter snow in PA( yet) but i know that the state does a remarkable job of keeping the roads clear.