I'm back from my convention in Miami and had a wonderful time. I learned a lot, networked, interviewed, and ate some great food. Miami is really quite a cool city! Anyhoo...I had a fabulous interview with a university in Iowa. We certainly weren't thinking of going to that geographic area of the US, but it was such a nice fit. I just felt like I really clicked with them during the interview and they have already emailed me (just got home yesterday) telling me that that were very impressed with my curriculum vitae and thought that I'd be a nice fit with their program, so "please consider applying." I just think of Iowa as being a big flat prairie with corn fields. So, does anyone know anything about NE Iowa, particularly the Cedar Falls/Waterloo area? I've already looked up demographics, things to do, the university, cost of living, etc. I am really wondering more about the town vibe and what it looks like there. Any info appreciated.

By Bobbie~moderatr on Monday, November 20, 2006 - 07:55 pm:

No clue.. But I wanted to wish you luck... Glad you had a good time.

By Hol on Tuesday, November 21, 2006 - 12:32 am:

We have dear friends in eastern Nebraska and all I can tell you is that the people are super nice, yes it is flat and full of corn and the winter weather can be VERY cold. The Canadian winds sweep down and there are no mountains to block it. The summers are hot, but you're used to that.

From what I saw, the cost of living was low (compared to New England, where I am). Real estate is a lot more reasonable than here.

If it seeems like such a great fit, I'd give it a try. Apply and see what they have to offer. They are also middle-American, church going folks. Lots of mega churches.

They seem to want you. (our friends in Nebraska call them "Iowegians" or "blue platers" because of their car license tags.

By Tayjar on Tuesday, November 21, 2006 - 10:07 am:

My DS lived on the eastern side and my cousins live on the western side. Here are my observations:

1. Lots of small, close-knit communities. Very good place to raise children.

2. Cost of living is low. You can get a lot of house and probably some acreage for your money.

3. People are friendly.

4. Old-fashioned midwestern values.

5. They also have excellent hospital care because of the universities.

With all of that being said, we are looking at buying acreage in Iowa because it's so much cheaper than Illinois.

By Mommyof5 on Tuesday, November 21, 2006 - 10:59 am:

I am in Nebraska but Iowa is very similar. I think it is a great place to raise a family.

By Pamt on Tuesday, November 21, 2006 - 08:29 pm:

Thanks for the input so far. Anyone else?