Submit an Academic Petition or Appeal

Petition Letter: Dear Associate Dean of Studies,

My name is Autumn Tallick and I am a third year Arts and Science student. As of this moment, I have been asked to withdraw for one year, as I did not meet the grade requirements to continue on with my studies. I believe it is in my best interest to request that MUSC 171 be dropped from my transcript and that CLST 103 be changed to credit standing. This would bring my GPA up a substantial enough amount so that I may continue on with my studies next year (2015-2016). If this is not possible, at minimal, I would like to waive the requirement to withdraw for one year. Due to extenuating circumstances I have struggled over the past two years with my grades. In the late fall of 2013 I was diagnosed as having Generalized Anxiety Disorder as well as suffering from depression. I sought help from my family doctor who sent me to see a social worker, who has since been working with me on Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. Apart from my therapy, my doctors thought it would be best if I were medicated; since the decision was made I have been on medication and have had my doses adjusted numerous times as well as several medication changes made. This in itself caused fluctuations in my mood and often caused me to struggle to maintain focus while working; suffering from many bouts of panic attacks, exhaustion and sometimes becoming severely emotionally distressed. There were many days where I was unable to get out of bed due to panic attacks and depression, causing me to miss classes and being unable to complete any tasks that day. My family doctor and social worker had brought up possible hospitalization numerous times but I declined, as I wanted to continue on with my studies. Since seeking help from my family doctor however I have been able to come to terms with my diagnosis as well as learn many beneficial tools that help me work through my anxiety and depression.