Submit an Academic Petition or Appeal

Petition Letter: Dear Associate Dean,

I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to petition for a late drop of KNPE 454 from my academic record for the winter semester of 2024. The reason for this appeal is due to unforeseen medical circumstances beyond my control that significantly impacted my ability to both fulfil and drop the course in time.

During the months of January and February, specifically around the time of the drop deadline, I was unfortunately diagnosed with a serious viral infection in my lungs that resulted in pneumonia. This unexpected and severe illness led to multiple visits to the emergency room and prolonged periods of incapacitation, preventing me from attending classes, completing assignments, or adequately focusing on my academic responsibilities.
The effects of this viral infection and subsequent pneumonia on my academic performance were profound and enduring. I experienced severe fatigue, persistent coughing fits, and overall weakness, which rendered me incapable of maintaining a regular study routine or participating in classroom activities. As a result, my performance in KNPE 454 suffered greatly, and I was unable to meet the academic standards expected of me.

The duration of my illness lasted approximately two months on and off during which I was in and out of the emergency room multiple times, seeking urgent medical care to alleviate my symptoms. Since January I have received medical attention from physicians at Kingston General Hospital, Southlake Regional Hospital, my family Physician Dr Fernando, and the physician on call at student wellness Dr Mcdonell. Over the course of these visits I was required to take two different courses of antibiotics to mitigate the pneumonia. At this time I am still experiencing minor symptoms and am recommended prolonged use of my corticosteroid inhaler. Despite my best efforts to mitigate the impact of my illness on my academic pursuits, I found it increasingly challenging to keep up with coursework and assignments.

I have been in contact with all of my professors and have required academic consideration when necessary. Many professors have offered me alternative schedules for deadlines and some light restructuring of the courses to assist me at this time. Due to the structure of KNPE 454 and the lab component of this class, I have missed many crucial presentation deadlines that would be very difficult to engage in at this time.

In light of the circumstances outlined above, I kindly request that the university consider granting me a late drop for KNPE 454. I assure you that this decision is not taken lightly and that I am fully committed to maintaining academic integrity. Attached to this letter are supporting documents, including medical records that have previously been submitted to the Arts and Science Accommodations Office to substantiate my claims. I am also willing to provide any additional information or documentation as required.

Thank you for your time and attention to this matter.

Sincerely,

Sophia Townsend