Submit an Academic Petition or Appeal

Petition Letter: To the Associate Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Science,
I am petitioning to drop STAT 269 and MATH 212 (Winter, 2024). This is a follow up to my previous petition, reference number 12024.

In my previous petition I went into detail of my struggles with my health through my schooling journey and how it led to a culmination last semester. I will provide my copy of the petition as supporting documentation as I explained the full background of my mental and physical health issues.

In summary, my poor mental and physical health rapidly became worse during the Winter 2024 semester. This included mounting internal pressure to succeed, worsening uncontrollable focus issues, and my own anxiety disorder clouding my decision-making ability. I had attempted to push through the worst mental problems I’ve experienced in my life, fearing it was the only way I could succeed academically, and in turn becoming completely overwhelmed. In hindsight, I should have reached out before the deadline, or to Academic Considerations, but I did not have the advantage of a clear and rational mind during that time.

Since then, I have started seeking medical help and I am proud to say that I have seen improvement, especially since I submitted the first petition at the start of June. My doctor has agreed that my attention issues could be a disorder and to further that, could be making my anxiety disorder worse. So at the start of July I have been taking Concerta (APO-METHYLPHENIDATE ER) to help and to confirm the diagnosis. I’m happy to say that it has been having a positive effect on my life, and I am continuing to work with my doctor to find the perfect dose for myself and look after my physical health.

For my future plans, If both courses are dropped my GPA issues become a lot more manageable, allowing me to proceed with completing the final two courses of my degree with a lighter course load. This would allow me to continue to improve my own personal well being while meeting Queen’s academic standards, culminating with becoming a proud Queen’s Alumni in Spring 2025. I plan to fully utilize the resources Queen’s has given me to succeed, including Academic Advisors and PASS.
I would like to take a moment to thank the Faculty of Arts and Science for the generosity they have shown me and appreciate the time and consideration into reviewing this petition.

Riley Smith