Submit an Academic Petition or Appeal

Petition Letter: Sharaf Khan
20218961
sharaf.khan@queensu.ca
(343) 580-3269
August 18, 2023

Dear Associate Dean,

I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to request compassionate consideration for the petition deadlines that I have missed. As I mentioned in my previous appeal, I have experienced significant challenges in my personal life over the past two academic years, which have adversely affected my ability to meet these deadlines.

I kindly request the waiving of petition deadlines for the following requests: a. Late course drop for CHEM 281 F21, BCHM 218 F21, STAT 263. b. Credit standing for PHGY 215. c. Extension of an incomplete grade for PHIL 259.

The past two academic years have been a tumultuous period for me, marked by an intensified struggle with depression, anxiety, ADHD complications, and a recent diagnosis of Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria last semester. These mental health challenges, coupled with the demands of my academic life, left me overwhelmed and unable to manage my time effectively, which led to my inability to meet the petition deadlines.

My mental health situation became so severe that I was prescribed antidepressants and anxiety medication to help me cope. It was only through professional intervention, support, therapy, and counselling that I began to regain control of my mental well-being. I am pleased to report that my efforts have culminated in significant progress. I am currently off antidepressants, and my ADHD medication is being accurately adjusted under Dr. Weiss from SWS. I am on track to be ready for the start of the next semester, and I have been making progress through therapy and counselling.

In light of this progress, I would like to highlight that I recently completed both summer courses and managed to finish outstanding coursework from the past academic year, accumulating to a total of 16 credits. Although there is still room for improvement, these achievements reflect my commitment to my academic journey and my determination to succeed, even in the face of adversity.

To ensure that I will not need further accommodations for missed petition deadlines, I have taken proactive steps to address my past challenges. Throughout this summer, I have fully integrated myself into using a calendar to manage my time more effectively. With the support of my parents, friends, therapists, and counsellors, I have learned to stick to a schedule despite the disruptions my problems previously caused. By taking care of my entire transcript now, I intend to start the upcoming semester with a clean slate, free from any lingering academic obligations.

At this point, many of the academic workload issues that had been holding me back are now resolved and improved, as evidenced by my earning 16 credits this summer, achieving stability with my mental health, and having a strong academic plan set in place for my success next semester. I would like to take this opportunity to apologize for not addressing these issues earlier. The weight of my mental health struggles was beyond my control, and it hindered my ability to stay on top of my academic commitments. I understand the importance of adhering to petition deadlines and regret not being able to do so. I assure you that my failure to meet these deadlines was not out of disregard for the process, but rather due to the significant personal challenges I was facing.

I would like to emphasize that I am fully committed to ensuring my academic journey remains on track. I have a renewed focus and determination to succeed, and I will continue to utilize the support and resources available to me.

Please note that supporting documentation from a professional at Queen's Student Wellness Services has been sent, confirming the information provided in this appeal.

I appreciate your understanding and compassionate consideration. I am eager to prove my capabilities and resilience and make the most of the opportunity to continue my studies at Queen's University.

Sincerely,

Sharaf Khan
20218961