Submit an Academic Petition or Appeal

Petition Letter: I hope this letter finds you well. My name is Kaliha Dennis (20341039), and I am a third-year student in the Health Sciences program at Queen’s University. I am writing to formally request a late course drop for Basic Physics (PHYS 118), which I took in the summer of 2023. This letter is submitted in conjunction with my previous petition on this matter.

During the summer of 2023 after completing my first year of university, I faced overwhelming academic and personal pressures, which led to severe anxiety and depression that significantly impacted my performance in PHYS 118. As a student in Health Sciences with aspirations of one day attending medical school, I felt an immense need to achieve perfection in my studies. Furthermore, as the only child of first-generation immigrants from a low-income background, I needed to work over 40 hours per week to help pay for my tuition. The combination of an intensive physics course load, the pressure of academic perfection, and the demands of full-time work left me physically and mentally exhausted, ultimately leading to a serious decline in my mental health.
Before this period, I had successfully balanced my academics with activities that supported my well-being, such as painting, drawing, running, and spending time with friends. However, due to my workload, I lost the ability to engage in these vital coping mechanisms. As the semester progressed, I struggled more and more with severe anxiety and depression, which made it increasingly difficult to focus, complete assignments, and keep up with course material. Despite my best efforts, I was unable to perform to my usual standards, resulting in a failing grade in PHYS 118.

At the time, I had not yet sought medical support, as I felt pressure to push through my struggles on my own. However, after realizing the toll it had taken on my well-being and academics, I took significant steps to address my mental health. I have since received professional care, been formally diagnosed with severe anxiety and depression, and have been prescribed Citalopram to help manage my symptoms. In addition to reintroducing painting, running, and socializing into my routine, I have also fully re-engaged in academic and leadership activities, demonstrating my ability to thrive when given the necessary support. Since then, I have excelled in PHYS 115 and 116, while also contributing to the Queen’s community through being part of the Queen’s First Aid Responder Team, Being President of Global Medical Brigades planning and being head of Logistics for Health Sciences Orientation 2025. These commitments, along with my improved mental health and strong academic performance, highlight the progress I have made and my ability to succeed when my circumstances allow.
Initially, I had hoped to replace my PHYS 118 grade with my performance in these courses, but due to course code differences, this is not possible. I also planned to retake PHYS 118, but the course is no longer offered. Given these circumstances, and the documented impact of my mental health struggles on my performance at the time, I am formally requesting to consider the late course drop of PHYS 118.


I have attached a doctor’s note confirming my diagnosis and treatment as supporting documentation. If any additional information is required, I would be happy to provide it. I sincerely appreciate your time and consideration in reviewing my petition. I am deeply committed to my academic success and have taken significant steps to ensure that my mental health no longer hinders my performance. Thank you for your time and understanding, and I look forward to your response.

Sincerely,
Kaliha Dennis (20341039)
Third-Year Health Sciences Student
Queen’s University