<p>I have no idea. I am not at a competitive or prestigious institution although my thesis won a major award.</p>
<p>I am glad of it because I have had a wonderful balance of professional and family life.</p>
<p>I would think that every dept. at my school would have to abide by these rules – contract mandated. However, they might not be as supportive in the tenure decision.</p>
<p>In fact, I have been seeing new hires afraid to the take the risk I did and working throughout. </p>
<p>Probably, this is sadly a rare case scenario. However, Out of the 23 years I have been employed there, I have worked 19 and plan to work 13 more so I am giving full service to my institution.</p>