Stepping Stones

I had a 1st-round interview on Monday, a callback 30 minutes after it for a 2nd-round, the 2nd-round interview on Wednesday and received a verbal offer that same afternoon. They called me today to ask if I could give them an answer tomorrow (!), after I receive the offer letter... I have never been a good decision-maker, and even less so when there are time constraints. I tried to negotiate extending my decision until next Wednesday, and eventually I agreed to notify them on Monday.

Though the annual salary is lower than I was expecting (it is in the low $30K's), the benefits package is fantastic and the people I would be working with are very personable, fun and hard-working. The corporate culture is exactly what I am looking for in a company. Also, all the higher-level employees I interviewed with expressed to me that this is an entry-level position, a "stepping-stone" to get into the industry, the company and eventually move up and across departments if I desire (which I do). There is no way that I am going to let this opportunity pass - even though the cost of living in my city is high, it is not as bad as New York City or Los Angeles - and it is most certainly do-able with my standard of living. I am excited to start earning my new salary, working in a new environment and learning a lot! And, of course, start the personal finance that comes along with it...!! :)

Side note on PF: I did attempt to negotiate on the salary. Since they originally told me the range is "low-to-mid 30's" and they offered me the lower end of that, I asked if it was negotiable for $2K higher. I was extremely nervous in even attempting this, but at least I tried!(They didn't budge, so I'll be accepting the original offer on Monday after I review the letter.) -- But still, I couldn't be more thrilled!!