Submit an Academic Petition or Appeal

Petition Letter: For Dr. Jenn Stephenson,

I am writing to formally request the dropping of my failed grades from the Winter 2024 term due to extenuating circumstances that profoundly affected my academic performance. This request is made with sincere reflection and a desire to present a fair representation of my capabilities as a student.

For the last few years, I have struggled with chronic kidney issues, which significantly impair my physical health and energy levels. This condition makes it extremely difficult to keep up with academic demands, as I often deal with severe pain, and numerous doctor and hospital visits. Thankfully, under my current medical regimen, my condition has become more manageable. I am attaching a doctor’s note to provide documentation of this ongoing condition.

At the same time, I also unknowingly had undiagnosed ADHD. The lack of understanding and support for this condition made time management, focus, and the ability to meet deadlines especially difficult. Since receiving my diagnosis, I have taken proactive steps to address this. I have registered with Queen's Student Accessibility Services (QSAS) and submitted my diagnosis, ensuring I now have access to accommodations that support my learning needs. These actions reflect my commitment to taking responsibility and preventing any recurrence.

I would also like to acknowledge one of my grades from this period, a B- in WRIT 290. This course was conducted online and allowed me to work at my own pace, which alleviated some of the challenges I faced during that time. Additionally, the course did not include a final exam, which further reduced the strain caused by my health and ADHD-related difficulties. I recognize that this grade is reflective of a course structure that better suited my circumstances at the time.

Despite these past challenges, I am determined to prove that they do not define my academic potential. This semester, with proper support in place, I have achieved straight As so far. My current instructors can attest to my academic diligence and success if you wish to follow up with them.

Looking back, it is deeply painful to know that my grades from the Winter 2024 term do not reflect the student I know I am. I wish for my record to reflect the potential I have to succeed, rather than the difficulties I faced.

I am attaching the following documents to support my appeal:
- A note from my doctor regarding my chronic kidney issues.
- Evidence of my hospital visits leading up to the Winter 2024 exam period.
- A note from my doctor regarding my ADHD diagnosis.

Thank you for taking the time to consider my request. I hope my appeal demonstrates both my commitment to growth and my determination to succeed.

Sincerely,
Natasha Vasiliev