Submit an Academic Petition or Appeal

Petition Letter: I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to formally appeal dropping the following courses from a period of medical leave during the Fall 2021, Fall 2023, and Winter 2024 terms. During that time, I experienced a significant relapse in my mental and physical health, which greatly impaired my ability to function academically and personally. A combination of personal, housing, and familial challenges created an overwhelming environment, and I found myself without sufficient resources or support to manage the demands of school. This culminated in a dangerously dark mindset, and I felt unable to see a clear path forward. In my search for help, I reached out to the Queens Crisis Line, where I was connected with Laurie Hooke, a crisis counselor who played a critical role in helping me through this difficult time. Laurie assisted me in finding a safer living situation, provided meal support through pay it forward tickets, and taught me essential skills in emotional regulation. Her guidance was instrumental in stabilizing my mental health and helping me regain a sense of safety and hope for the future.

Once I felt more settled, Laurie and I agreed that it would be best for me to take medical leave from my studies in order to focus on my health and well-being. This decision was made with the understanding that returning to my academic responsibilities too soon would be detrimental to both my personal recovery and my future academic success. Over the past few years I have worked consistently on my emotional and mental health, attending regular sessions with Laurie and participating in campus support groups, where I have found invaluable community and solidarity among other students facing similar challenges.

Now, with a stronger sense of stability and resilience, I am eager to return to my studies and re-engage with my academic journey. I am confident that the steps I have taken toward recovery have better prepared me to succeed moving forward. With your support, I am hopeful that I can resume my education in a way that reflects both my commitment to my personal health and my academic goals.

I respectfully request that you consider my appeal to drop the abovementioned courses in light of my extenuating circumstances. I am happy to provide any additional documentation or meet in person to discuss this further.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to your response and hope for a positive resolution to my appeal.