Submit an Academic Petition or Appeal

Petition Letter: Dear Dr. Stephenson,

I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to formally petition the Faculty's decision to grant me a letter of permission, allowing me to complete my fourth year of studies at Western University.

I find myself in a unique situation that has significantly impacted my ability to thrive academically and maintain my mental well-being. Last January, my father fell victim to a robbery at his business where he was shot, resulting in a nine-month hospitalization, many of these months were comatose in the ICU. To provide support and be closer to my family during this traumatizing period, I made the difficult decision to defer my second-year, second-semester studies. Although my father is now on the road to recovery, the emotional and physical toll of the incident continues to affect our lives even a year later.

Upon resuming my studies at Queen's University in September 2023, I encountered further challenges that have impacted my already fragile mental health. A disturbing incident involving one of my roommates was brought to the attention of the Non-Academic Misconduct office. Consequently, my housemate was issued a No Contact Order from the school for threatening the lives of my other housemates. These events have contributed to heightened anxiety, compelling me to study in the familiar surroundings of my hometown and complete my studies at Western University.

While my transcript may not reflect the full extent of these challenges, I firmly believe that returning home to complete my fourth year at Western will provide me with the necessary mental and emotional stability to build my academic success upon. Despite the unavailability of the 2024/2025 course offerings, Western University boasts a range of intriguing and similar history courses that align with Queen's Major requirements. This shift will not only safeguard my academic progress, but will also reinvigorate my enthusiasm for learning.

Looking ahead, I am enrolled in the Concurrent Education program, but uncertainty surrounds my ability to live away from home for the next two years. Although my father's situation has improved, I feel a responsibility to support my family, particularly as my sister embarks on her master's degree beginning in September, where she will have responsibilities extending beyond those of the household. If granted this letter of permission, I plan to complete my fourth year at Western and subsequently withdraw from the Concurrent Education program. This will allow me the time and space needed to focus on my mental health before pursuing applications to traditional teacher's colleges.

While my primary request pertains to completing my fourth year at Western University, I wish to express my intention to finish my ongoing third year at Queen's University. I am committed to fulfilling the academic requirements for this year and maintaining the high standards expected by the faculty.

I believe that concluding my third year at Queen's will not only demonstrate my dedication to my current academic pursuits, but will also allow for a smoother transition as I prepare to embark on a fresh academic start at Western in September. This transitional period will provide me with the necessary time to tie up any loose ends, finish my lease, ensure a seamless transfer of credits, and mentally prepare for the upcoming academic year at my new institution.

I appreciate your consideration of this additional aspect of my petition and am willing to collaborate closely with the relevant departments at both Queen's and Western to facilitate a well-coordinated transition between the two institutions.

I believe that obtaining this letter of permission is crucial for my well-being. It will not only facilitate my academic progress, but also contribute to a stronger foundation for my future endeavors as an educator. I kindly request your understanding and support in considering my petition.


Thank you for your time and consideration.