Congratulations on all you've accomplished so far! The next step is an important one with significant implications, and I'm not surprised to hear you are a bit nervous. I was too. Even though my colleagues were confident, previous Rank & Tenure reviews had been positive, and my loved ones had a "if-you-can't-get-tenure-the-system-is-broken" attitude, I couldn't help myself from considering the possibility I'd be denied and imagining what my back up plan might be. For me, I realized going up for tenure was a once in a lifetime event, if I were denied I was clear I'd move into industry and wouldn't look back. That understanding made the waiting time easier and helped me appreciate each letter as they trickled in...my materials were also due in september, then the department endorsement came ~Nov, Dean's letter of support ~Jan, R&T recommendation ~March, President's letter ~May. Officially tenured, 6/1/22. We celebrated each mini-milestone and still have a late summer BBQ planned in a park in my hometown to bring family and old friends together for a big party.
I agree with PsyDr. Plan your celebrations, they're well earned, and think about what this new status really means for your career and life. Which parts do you want to trim? Which parts do you want to enhance? Congratulations!
