Submit an Academic Petition or Appeal

Petition Letter: Dear Associate Dean,

I am writing to you to request the designation of a Credit Standing (CR) on my DEVS 260 grade. Unfortunately, I was unable to complete this course at a level that reflects my standing as a student due to extenuating circumstances that I will explain below.

First, I would like to emphasize that I take full responsibility for the grade I received. Dr. Reena Kukreja is an excellent instructor whose teaching in this important field was deeply enriching. I do not regret taking DEVS 260 and found the course both meaningful and thought-provoking. However, the participation and attendance requirements, which accounted for 20% of the final grade, posed significant challenges for me last semester. This course heavily emphasized in-class learning, drawing from Dr. Kukreja’s expertise and the dynamic discussions in tutorials. Regrettably, my condition prevented me from attending more than half of the classes, especially during the middle of the semester, which limited both my engagement and access to key insights that were critical for success in the course, including in assignments and the final exam.

For context, I was managing a recent diagnosis of Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) alongside severe migraines caused by head trauma from a car accident. While I am now on the right track with my accommodations through QSAS and my treatment plan, I faced significant challenges last semester, particularly in courses with in-person participation components. I was fortunate that many of my other courses either did not have similar requirements or that my instructors provided accommodations to help me succeed. Despite these difficulties, I was able to perform well overall. However, my grade in DEVS 260 (D+) stands out as an anomaly and does not reflect the student I am and the progress I have made.

I want to stress that my struggles in DEVS 260 were not a reflection of the course itself. I genuinely valued the material and often discussed the topics with my mother, who shares a personal connection to the conditions explored in the course. While I was unable to fully engage in class, the knowledge I gained was impactful and meaningful.

My primary concern now is the impact of this grade on my GPA and the way it may appear to future employers or academic institutions who will access my transcript in the near future. I believe that this grade, while reflective of the challenges I faced during that specific semester, does not represent my capabilities or the student I am today. I kindly request your understanding in this matter and ask for a Credit Standing designation to minimize any lasting negative impact on my academic record.

Thank you for your time and consideration. Please let me know if additional information or documentation is required to support my request.


Thanks,
Taahaa Lone