Submit an Academic Petition or Appeal

Petition Letter: Dear Members of the Academic Appeals Committee,

I am writing to respectfully request Credit (CR) standing for MATH 326, which I completed in the Fall 2024 term. I humbly ask for your understanding and compassion as I explain the circumstances that led to my inability to perform to my full potential in this course.
Throughout the term, I diligently attended lectures, engaged with the course material, and made every effort to succeed. To better prepare for the final exam, I even hired a private tutor, hoping to strengthen my understanding and ensure my readiness. Unfortunately, despite my dedication, unforeseen circumstances during the final examination significantly hindered my performance.
During the final exam, which took place from 2-5p.m. on Dec 18th in Grant Hall, I was experiencing a severe headache, which worsened during the test, and I suffered an unexpected and debilitating nosebleed. This incident, which can be verified by the supervisors of the exam (I have not retrieved a professional letter since I do not know how to contact the exam supervisors, but it can be verified through other methods too, like footage of CCTV), severely impacted my ability to concentrate and complete the exam effectively. Despite trying my best to push through, the physical discomfort overwhelmed me and prevented me from showcasing my true understanding of the course material.
In addition to these challenges, I believe the grading of the midterm by the teaching assistant was somewhat harsh, which contributed to my overall lower performance in the course. While I respect the grading standards, this factor, combined with the challenges I faced during the final exam which account for 50 percent of the grade, does not accurately reflect the effort and commitment I put into this course.
I would also like to highlight that I successfully managed a heavy academic workload this semester, including five 300- and 400-level courses. Despite this demanding schedule, I maintained good grades in all my other courses, reflecting my strong commitment to my studies and my ability to succeed academically under normal circumstances.
As an international student, my study permit is set to expire in July. Retaking this class would necessitate extending my permit and staying for an additional fall semester, which would pose a significant financial and administrative burden. This delay would also disrupt my academic progression and negatively impact my future career plans.
To support my petition, I have included the following documents:
1. Transcript.
3. Crowdmark Report.
4. Midterm File.
5. Tutor Fee Proof.
If required, I am also willing to provide class notes from throughout the semester as further proof of my engagement and dedication.
The prospect of retaking this class is particularly daunting, as it would require me to stay for an additional fall semester. This extension would pose a significant financial burden and delay my timely graduation, further complicating my academic and personal plans.
I deeply value my education at Queen's University and the opportunities it has provided me. I am committed to upholding the academic standards and integrity of this institution and respectfully request that you consider my petition with care and understanding. I assure you that this request is made with the utmost sincerity and only under exceptional circumstances.
Thank you for taking the time to review my petition. I would be immensely grateful for your favorable consideration, and I remain hopeful for a resolution that will allow me to move forward in my academic journey.

Ziqi Meng