Legally- they have to give professors 12 weeks off. It is law (Family Medical Leave Act). It is definitely frowned upon to take off 12 weeks, though. That kind of pressure in an untenured position can be enough to make people not take off, or take a semester off without pay. Trust me, I just had to fight my way…

You are coming from a very privileged position. Not only were you’re parents well off enough to pay your tuition, but it is fairly clear you probably live in California. Tuition in California is WAY cheaper than almost anywhere else in the country. Also, your CC/JC system is very cheap or free. In addition, salaries…