Submit an Academic Petition or Appeal

Petition Letter: Dear Board of Studies,

I am appealing the Associate Dean's decision to deny my appeal to change my grades in IDIS 173 (Winter 2023) and CHEM 112 (Fall 2022 - Winter 2023) to credit standing on the grounds that the decision did not adequately consider the severity and impact of my extenuating circumstances on my academic performance during the relevant time period.

During the second semester of my first year at Queen's University's Bader College in England, I experienced significant challenges with undiagnosed depression and anxiety, which directly affected my ability to perform academically. The sudden change in environment from being at home during winter break to returning to England for the second semester was a contributing factor to my mental health struggles. Additionally, during the midterm trip, I experienced a traumatic event when my friend was harassed while we were in Paris. This incident further exacerbated my depression and anxiety.

Throughout the semester, I sought support from Student Wellness Services at Bader College, discussing my mental health concerns and the impact they were having on my studies. As a result of these discussions, I was provided with a single room accommodation to help manage my condition. Despite this support, my academic performance in IDIS 173 and CHEM 112 suffered, leading to grades of C and B, respectively. These grades do not accurately reflect my true academic abilities, as evidenced by the A+ grades I have achieved in all my courses this year.

It is important to note that my stronger performance in Anatomy, Statistics, and Personal Health/Wellness courses during the same semester can be attributed to my prior knowledge of these subjects from high school. However, the impact of my mental health struggles was more pronounced in IDIS 173 and CHEM 112, as these courses presented new challenges and required greater adaptation.

Recently, I have been working with a psychologist associated with Queen's Student Wellness Services who will provide further information and support regarding my extenuating circumstances during the time period in question.

I am now in a better place mentally and have developed strategies to manage my mental health effectively. I am confident that with the proper support and accommodations, I will be able to demonstrate my true academic potential in future studies.

In light of the severity and impact of my extenuating circumstances on my academic performance during the Winter 2023 semester, I respectfully request that the Board of Studies reconsider the Associate Dean's decision and grant my appeal to change the grades of IDIS 173 and CHEM 112 to credit standing.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,
Chanyoul (Paul) Yoon
20327572


(Letter to follow from Student Wellness)