Submit an Academic Petition or Appeal

Petition Letter: Dear Dr. Bénard:

I am writing at this time to appeal the Faculty of Arts and Science's decision that I must withdraw from my studies for one year.

I am currently suffering from and on the cusp of receiving treatment for an anxiety disorder.
While I have been afflicted with high levels of anxiety for years now, I have for the most part, managed to cope on my own without treatment. However, during the fall term my anxiety rose to new and crippling heights which I was ill-prepared for. My inability to stop the constant and irrational worry I experienced affected my ability to take care of even my most basic needs, like the ability to sleep and eat. Both the number of hours I was sleeping and my body mass index plummeted to unhealthy lows. In turn, my academic focus and results also suffered. I had trouble concentrating and achieving results for the first time in my life.

I am currently committed to improving both my mental and physical health by reaching out for professional help. I have seen my family doctor and he referred me to a therapist and also group sessions based on cognitive behavioral therapy. Both are set to commence before the end of this month. My doctor has given me hope that this problem can be managed with the right care and commitment on my part.

In addition to getting help for my anxiety issue, next year I plan to implement a number of changes designed to increase my chances of academic success. They include: living alone (I found roommates distracting last year), buying a meal plan, living closer to campus, and utilizing the Student Academic Success Services Learning Strategies program to improve my work habits- namely to work on procrastinating, which I now know is related to anxiety and time management, which I admit I can improve upon.

When I return to school, I intend to take a full course load. Two of the courses I will take in the first semester will include repeats of courses I didn't do well in. Since I've already taken these courses, the material will be familiar and my workload will feel lighter than if I were to take on five new courses. This will allow me to ease back toward my goal of achieving the academic results that I know I am capable of.

Although I have struggled with the obstacles described above, I am fortunate that learning comes naturally to me and that I don't have problems with course materials and new ideas presented in class. In spite of everything, I am passionate about learning, science, and the subject I have decided to pursue- chemistry. I sincerely hope to be permitted to remain at Queen's next year to pursue that passion.

Thank you for your time and consideration. If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to contact me.

Best regards,

Simon McNally