Leveling up
Just a few thoughts on the subject of leveling up. To maintain a smooth flow in an adventure path, I think it's counter-productive to have long periods of mandatory training when one gains a new level. For those who are unfamiliar with this concept, this is an alternate rule presented in the DMG. New class abilities, skill points, etc. are understood to be gained through practical use of one's skills in the field in addition to training during "downtime".
There is a semi-exception to this rule, which involves gaining a level in a new class. Levels in new base and prestige classes do not suddenly appear out of thin air. They must at least partially be acquired through apprenticeship or study with someone who is a member of that class. This training does not have to happen "on screen" and can simply be referred to in a single post.
The reason I insist on this is because in my opinion, without it characters start sliding from being representations of real people in a wholly realized, if fictitional world to simply a collection of modifiers to die rolls with an equipment list attached. I think that this concept is also grounded solidly in a pre-industrial way of life. Before the introduction of universal, mandatory state education almost everyone gained their job skills from a mentor or master, often apprenticing themselves for years to gain proficiency in their field. Acknowledging where your new skills come from is simply a modest acknowledgement to this model.
So what does this mean for you and your character? Well, if you plan on taking a level in a new class just let me know and we can work up a little background to explain this expansion. Does that work?
BrOp