Submit an Academic Petition or Appeal

Petition Letter: Dear Associate Dean of Studies,

I was devastated to hear that I would be required to withdraw for a year. I am creating this appeal because I genuinely believe I have improved from last year regarding my grades and made the mistake of not retaking the courses I did not pass in first year. Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to explain my circumstances.

Unfortunately, I had not passed my courses after grieving my grandfather's death in first year. After my appeal had been granted last year, I made the huge mistake of not retaking the classes I did not pass in order for them not to bring down my GPA, and I regret that every day. After I had realized after the first semester and had many meetings with academic advisors, I tried getting into classes I would have to retake, but unfortunately, it was too late. Academic advising told me I could just take PSYC100 for the second semester so I could fly under the radar when it came to this part of the year when you would check my GPA. The second option was to take classes and appeal this, given that I made a terrible mistake by not being aware I had to retake the classes, and then show my improvements from this year. I thought about it for a long time and decided while I was at school I wanted to devote myself to my academics while I was in the environment of students taking classes. I was aware this was a possibility but was determined to do better in my classes this year to prove I deserve to be here and truly want to finish my studies at Queens, as I’ve been dreaming of it for years. I would be crushed if my lack of research will strip me of the opportunity to continue at Queens where my academics have become my number one priority. I want to apologize for not being aware it was a must for me to retake those classes, that being said I believe I’ve improved from last year, and can only keep improving. I had a tough time last year with my grandfather's passing, and I won’t forgive myself for putting myself in this position after I didn’t take those classes I didn’t pass in the first year again this year. I want to emphasize my regret and disappointment in myself, I love Queens and everything this school has to offer. I know I can do even better next year if you would be so understanding as to grant that to me. I understand I am asking for a second chance at my studies here at Queens, I can promise you I'm a good person and a good student who made a detrimental mistake. I want to prove myself with this second chance as nothing could come in the way of my studies in the remaining time I study at Queens.

I will now retake all those classes to give myself a fresh slate and get back on track the way I should have done this past school year. I want to continue my studies at the school I have been dreaming of going to since I was a little girl. I understand the situations you deal with on a daily basis, I really do hope you can find the understanding in my situation. Thank you for considering this appeal.

Zara Sheridan