Manage Appeals
Petition Type: New
ID: 12837
Submitted: March 15, 2025 at 3:58:34 AM
First Name: Anastasiya
Last Name: Stackaruk
Pronoun: she/her
Preferred Name: Anastasiya
Student Number: 20113208
Email: 17as254@queensu.ca
Degree Program: BA
Plan: HLTH
Level of Study: 4
Petition Categories
Petition Categories: Drop a course after the academic deadline, Waive the 21-day or one term deadline
Code: .
Term: Fall
Year: 2021
Petition Category: Drop a course after the academic deadline
Petition Letter
Petition Letter: Dear Petition/Appeal Committee,
I am submitting this petition to request the removal of all failed and incomplete courses from my transcript due to severe extenuating circumstances beyond my control, which severely impacted my academic performance. These grades do not reflect my true abilities, dedication, or perseverance but rather a period of overwhelming medical, psychological, financial, and personal hardships that made finishing coursework impossible.
Why I Failed These Courses:
Between 2020 and 2024, I endured severe health challenges, mental health crises, and financial instability, which directly affected my ability to keep up with my studies.
1. Chronic spinal pain (post-spinal fusion), plantar fasciitis, gastritis, concussions, hypertension, asthma, and medication complications left me frequently hospitalized and in debilitating pain, making it impossible to attend classes in person.
2. Severe depression, anxiety, and PTSD, culminating from The War on Ukraine, relationship issues, chronic pain, childhood trauma, family deaths, and lack of familial support which led to a suicide attempt in early 2024, affecting my ability to concentrate, complete assignments, and engage with coursework.
3. Severe financial hardship and housing instability meant working three jobs to survive, leaving me mentally and physically drained.
4.COVID-19 disruptions, academic backlog from missed assessments, and difficulty adapting to online/in-person transitions left me unable to recover from falling behind.
Despite my efforts to seek support, these circumstances became unmanageable, and I was unable to complete my courses through no fault of my own.
My Determination & Commitment to Academic Success:
My education at Queen’s means the world to me. I was accepted into this program while I was a patient at SickKids Toronto recovering from spinal fusion surgery and studying every second I could, and my dream was to graduate with a degree from Queen’s.
After failing these courses, I spent the entire summer of 2024 messaging faculty, finding solutions, and working multiple jobs to pay off my tuition debt. I re-enrolled as an active student in Fall 2024, self-funded my tuition, and successfully completed DEVS 101 with an A while taking a full nursing course load at Loyalist College.
Now, I have rebuilt my life:
- I left a toxic relationship and secured stable housing by myself in Belleville close to College.
- I am in my second semester of nursing school, with high 80s (A grades).
-I completed my final course required for a BA degree from Queen's, acheiving an A in the online course while in full-time nursing school.
- I volunteer at Belleville General Hospital (ER, ICU, Postpartum) to give back to my community.
- I work part-time as a Dietary Aide in Picton and Belleville to support myself independently.
Request for Consideration:
-If these 13 failed courses are removed, my recalculated GPA would be 3.19, allowing me to graduate with my Honours BA from Queen’s. I respectfully request a retroactive late drop of these courses so that my transcript accurately reflects my true academic capabilities.
Additionally, if financial aid is available for graduating students facing hardship, I would be grateful for any support. I have fought through unimaginable challenges, and this degree represents my resilience, strength, and determination. All I have ever wanted was to graduate from Queen’s, and removing these courses from my transcript is my final step to apply to graduate for the class of 2024 in the Spring.
Thank you for your time and consideration. I appreciate the opportunity to present my case and hope for a compassionate decision that will allow me to move forward academically and professionally.
Sincerely,
Anastasiya Stackaruk
I am submitting this petition to request the removal of all failed and incomplete courses from my transcript due to severe extenuating circumstances beyond my control, which severely impacted my academic performance. These grades do not reflect my true abilities, dedication, or perseverance but rather a period of overwhelming medical, psychological, financial, and personal hardships that made finishing coursework impossible.
Why I Failed These Courses:
Between 2020 and 2024, I endured severe health challenges, mental health crises, and financial instability, which directly affected my ability to keep up with my studies.
1. Chronic spinal pain (post-spinal fusion), plantar fasciitis, gastritis, concussions, hypertension, asthma, and medication complications left me frequently hospitalized and in debilitating pain, making it impossible to attend classes in person.
2. Severe depression, anxiety, and PTSD, culminating from The War on Ukraine, relationship issues, chronic pain, childhood trauma, family deaths, and lack of familial support which led to a suicide attempt in early 2024, affecting my ability to concentrate, complete assignments, and engage with coursework.
3. Severe financial hardship and housing instability meant working three jobs to survive, leaving me mentally and physically drained.
4.COVID-19 disruptions, academic backlog from missed assessments, and difficulty adapting to online/in-person transitions left me unable to recover from falling behind.
Despite my efforts to seek support, these circumstances became unmanageable, and I was unable to complete my courses through no fault of my own.
My Determination & Commitment to Academic Success:
My education at Queen’s means the world to me. I was accepted into this program while I was a patient at SickKids Toronto recovering from spinal fusion surgery and studying every second I could, and my dream was to graduate with a degree from Queen’s.
After failing these courses, I spent the entire summer of 2024 messaging faculty, finding solutions, and working multiple jobs to pay off my tuition debt. I re-enrolled as an active student in Fall 2024, self-funded my tuition, and successfully completed DEVS 101 with an A while taking a full nursing course load at Loyalist College.
Now, I have rebuilt my life:
- I left a toxic relationship and secured stable housing by myself in Belleville close to College.
- I am in my second semester of nursing school, with high 80s (A grades).
-I completed my final course required for a BA degree from Queen's, acheiving an A in the online course while in full-time nursing school.
- I volunteer at Belleville General Hospital (ER, ICU, Postpartum) to give back to my community.
- I work part-time as a Dietary Aide in Picton and Belleville to support myself independently.
Request for Consideration:
-If these 13 failed courses are removed, my recalculated GPA would be 3.19, allowing me to graduate with my Honours BA from Queen’s. I respectfully request a retroactive late drop of these courses so that my transcript accurately reflects my true academic capabilities.
Additionally, if financial aid is available for graduating students facing hardship, I would be grateful for any support. I have fought through unimaginable challenges, and this degree represents my resilience, strength, and determination. All I have ever wanted was to graduate from Queen’s, and removing these courses from my transcript is my final step to apply to graduate for the class of 2024 in the Spring.
Thank you for your time and consideration. I appreciate the opportunity to present my case and hope for a compassionate decision that will allow me to move forward academically and professionally.
Sincerely,
Anastasiya Stackaruk
Academic Plan
Academic Plan: Dear Petition/Appeal Committee,
I am writing to present my academic plan, detailing some personal adjustments and strategies I will implement to ensure academic success, dependent on the approval of my petition to remove all failed and incomplete courses from my transcript. This plan outlines my educational trajectory, support systems, and commitment to personal well-being, all aimed at achieving my goal of becoming a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (NP).
1. Current Academic Standing and Immediate Goals
Loyalist College Practical Nursing (RPN) Program: I started the RPN program at Loyalist College in September 2024. This program runs for around two years, with an expected completion date in April 2026.
Personal Support Worker (PSW) Employment: To enhance my practical experience and patient care skills, I plan to obtain PSW employment during the summer of 2025. This certification will allow me to work part-time in healthcare settings, providing valuable hands-on experience.
2. Long-Term Educational Aspirations
Registered Nurse (RN) Bridge Program: Upon completing the RPN program and working for the allotted years, I plan to enroll in the RPN to BScN Bridge Program at Loyalist College. This bridge semester recognizes the credentials of Registered Practical Nurses and supports their advanced standing into Loyalist's Honours Bachelor of Science in Nursing program.
Nurse Practitioner (NP) Program: After completing my BScN, I aim to pursue a Master's degree leading to NP certification. This will allow me to offer advanced nursing care and obtain leadership roles within the healthcare system.
3. Personal Adjustments and Support Systems
Smaller Class Sizes: Loyalist College offers small class settings, fostering stronger relationships with faculty and peers. This supportive environment has significantly reduced my anxiety and enhanced my learning experience.
Mental and Physical Health Support: I engage in free counseling and massage therapy services provided by Loyalist College. Regular sessions with my doctor and adherence to prescribed anxiety and depression medications are key to my self-care routine.
Stable Living Conditions: Securing my own apartment in Belleville as of March 2025, facilitated by grants from Loyalist College and income from my part-time job as a Dietary Aide in Prince Edward County, has provided a stable and focused environment for my studies.
4. Strategies for Academic Success
Time Management: Balancing coursework, part-time employment, and self-care through organized scheduling ensures that I meet all academic and personal commitments in a timely fashion.
Continuous Professional Development: I plan to pursue additional certifications, such as cosmetic nursing, to improve my skill set and enhance my employability.
Community Engagement: Volunteering at Belleville General Hospital in various departments (Emergency, ICU, Postpartum) allows me to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings, reinforcing my learning and commitment to patient care.
5. Timeline and Milestones
Summer 2025: Complete Year 1 of nursing school and start PSW employment and commence full-time work in healthcare.
April 2026: Graduate from the RPN program at Loyalist College.
2027/2028: Enroll in and complete the RPN to BScN Bridge Program.
September 2027/2028: Begin the BScN program, entering directly into semester five.
April 2029: Graduate with a BScN degree and start working as a RN.
September 2030: Enroll in a Master's program leading to NP certification.
6. Support from Queen's University Degree
Attaining my Bachelor of Arts degree with a focus in Health Studies from Queen's University is a major milestone in my academic journey. It not only symbolizes my resilience and dedication but also enhances my academic credentials, facilitating future educational and professional opportunities. This degree will serve as a testament to my commitment to overcoming adversity and achieving excellence.
7. Commitment to Continuous Improvement
I am dedicated to lifelong learning and personal growth. Regular consultations with academic advisors, participation in workshops, and engagement in peer study groups are strategies I will utilize to uphold academic excellence. Also, I will continue to leverage mental health resources to ensure my well-being supports my educational endeavors.
Conclusion
The approval of my petition to remove all failed and incomplete courses from my transcript is crucial for properly reflecting my academic capabilities and potential. This adjustment will not only bolster my confidence but also remove barriers to future educational pursuits. I am committed to implementing the strategies outlined in this plan to achieve my goal of becoming a Nurse Practitioner and contributing meaningfully to the healthcare community.
Thank you for considering my petition and academic plan. I am eager to demonstrate my unwavering commitment to academic and professional excellence.
Sincerely,
Anastasiya Stackaruk
I am writing to present my academic plan, detailing some personal adjustments and strategies I will implement to ensure academic success, dependent on the approval of my petition to remove all failed and incomplete courses from my transcript. This plan outlines my educational trajectory, support systems, and commitment to personal well-being, all aimed at achieving my goal of becoming a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (NP).
1. Current Academic Standing and Immediate Goals
Loyalist College Practical Nursing (RPN) Program: I started the RPN program at Loyalist College in September 2024. This program runs for around two years, with an expected completion date in April 2026.
Personal Support Worker (PSW) Employment: To enhance my practical experience and patient care skills, I plan to obtain PSW employment during the summer of 2025. This certification will allow me to work part-time in healthcare settings, providing valuable hands-on experience.
2. Long-Term Educational Aspirations
Registered Nurse (RN) Bridge Program: Upon completing the RPN program and working for the allotted years, I plan to enroll in the RPN to BScN Bridge Program at Loyalist College. This bridge semester recognizes the credentials of Registered Practical Nurses and supports their advanced standing into Loyalist's Honours Bachelor of Science in Nursing program.
Nurse Practitioner (NP) Program: After completing my BScN, I aim to pursue a Master's degree leading to NP certification. This will allow me to offer advanced nursing care and obtain leadership roles within the healthcare system.
3. Personal Adjustments and Support Systems
Smaller Class Sizes: Loyalist College offers small class settings, fostering stronger relationships with faculty and peers. This supportive environment has significantly reduced my anxiety and enhanced my learning experience.
Mental and Physical Health Support: I engage in free counseling and massage therapy services provided by Loyalist College. Regular sessions with my doctor and adherence to prescribed anxiety and depression medications are key to my self-care routine.
Stable Living Conditions: Securing my own apartment in Belleville as of March 2025, facilitated by grants from Loyalist College and income from my part-time job as a Dietary Aide in Prince Edward County, has provided a stable and focused environment for my studies.
4. Strategies for Academic Success
Time Management: Balancing coursework, part-time employment, and self-care through organized scheduling ensures that I meet all academic and personal commitments in a timely fashion.
Continuous Professional Development: I plan to pursue additional certifications, such as cosmetic nursing, to improve my skill set and enhance my employability.
Community Engagement: Volunteering at Belleville General Hospital in various departments (Emergency, ICU, Postpartum) allows me to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings, reinforcing my learning and commitment to patient care.
5. Timeline and Milestones
Summer 2025: Complete Year 1 of nursing school and start PSW employment and commence full-time work in healthcare.
April 2026: Graduate from the RPN program at Loyalist College.
2027/2028: Enroll in and complete the RPN to BScN Bridge Program.
September 2027/2028: Begin the BScN program, entering directly into semester five.
April 2029: Graduate with a BScN degree and start working as a RN.
September 2030: Enroll in a Master's program leading to NP certification.
6. Support from Queen's University Degree
Attaining my Bachelor of Arts degree with a focus in Health Studies from Queen's University is a major milestone in my academic journey. It not only symbolizes my resilience and dedication but also enhances my academic credentials, facilitating future educational and professional opportunities. This degree will serve as a testament to my commitment to overcoming adversity and achieving excellence.
7. Commitment to Continuous Improvement
I am dedicated to lifelong learning and personal growth. Regular consultations with academic advisors, participation in workshops, and engagement in peer study groups are strategies I will utilize to uphold academic excellence. Also, I will continue to leverage mental health resources to ensure my well-being supports my educational endeavors.
Conclusion
The approval of my petition to remove all failed and incomplete courses from my transcript is crucial for properly reflecting my academic capabilities and potential. This adjustment will not only bolster my confidence but also remove barriers to future educational pursuits. I am committed to implementing the strategies outlined in this plan to achieve my goal of becoming a Nurse Practitioner and contributing meaningfully to the healthcare community.
Thank you for considering my petition and academic plan. I am eager to demonstrate my unwavering commitment to academic and professional excellence.
Sincerely,
Anastasiya Stackaruk
Documentation
Professional Letter: Queens Dr Cecutti.pdf
Document: scoliosis.png
Documentation Detail: Photo of my Spinal Fusion Surgery
Decision Letters
History
Originally submitted March 15, 2025 at 3:58:34 AM.
| Field | Reference | Old Value | New Value | Note | User | Date/Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| professional_letter | N/A | Queens Dr Cecutti.pdf | Kerri Andrews | 2025-03-18 5:50:53 PM | ||
| appeal_category | N/A | Drop a course after the academic deadline, Other petition | Waive the 21-day or one term deadline | Kerri Andrews | 2025-03-18 5:50:53 PM | |
| professional_letter | N/A | Queens Dr Cecutti.pdf | Kerri Andrews | 2025-03-18 6:18:58 PM | ||
| course | . | . | Kerri Andrews | 2025-03-18 6:18:58 PM | ||
| term | . | Fall | Kerri Andrews | 2025-03-18 6:18:58 PM | ||
| year | . | 2021 | Kerri Andrews | 2025-03-18 6:18:58 PM | ||
| appeal_category_per_course | . | Drop a course after the academic deadline | Kerri Andrews | 2025-03-18 6:18:58 PM | ||
| course | ENSC 230 | ENSC 230 | Kerri Andrews | 2025-03-18 6:18:58 PM | ||
| term | ENSC 230 | Fall | Kerri Andrews | 2025-03-18 6:18:58 PM | ||
| year | ENSC 230 | 2021 | Kerri Andrews | 2025-03-18 6:18:58 PM | ||
| appeal_category_per_course | ENSC 230 | Drop a course after the academic deadline | Kerri Andrews | 2025-03-18 6:18:58 PM | ||
| course | ENSC 237 | ENSC 237 | Kerri Andrews | 2025-03-18 6:18:58 PM | ||
| term | ENSC 237 | Fall | Kerri Andrews | 2025-03-18 6:18:58 PM | ||
| year | ENSC 237 | 2021 | Kerri Andrews | 2025-03-18 6:18:58 PM | ||
| appeal_category_per_course | ENSC 237 | Drop a course after the academic deadline | Kerri Andrews | 2025-03-18 6:18:58 PM | ||
| course | GNDS 125 | GNDS 125 | Kerri Andrews | 2025-03-18 6:18:58 PM | ||
| term | GNDS 125 | Fall | Kerri Andrews | 2025-03-18 6:18:58 PM | ||
| year | GNDS 125 | 2021 | Kerri Andrews | 2025-03-18 6:18:58 PM | ||
| appeal_category_per_course | GNDS 125 | Drop a course after the academic deadline | Kerri Andrews | 2025-03-18 6:18:58 PM | ||
| course | HLTH 417 | HLTH 417 | Kerri Andrews | 2025-03-18 6:18:58 PM | ||
| term | HLTH 417 | Fall | Kerri Andrews | 2025-03-18 6:18:58 PM | ||
| year | HLTH 417 | 2021 | Kerri Andrews | 2025-03-18 6:18:58 PM | ||
| appeal_category_per_course | HLTH 417 | Drop a course after the academic deadline | Kerri Andrews | 2025-03-18 6:18:58 PM | ||
| course | GLPH 281 | GLPH 281 | Kerri Andrews | 2025-03-18 6:18:58 PM | ||
| term | GLPH 281 | Fall | Kerri Andrews | 2025-03-18 6:18:58 PM | ||
| year | GLPH 281 | 2022 | Kerri Andrews | 2025-03-18 6:18:58 PM | ||
| appeal_category_per_course | GLPH 281 | Drop a course after the academic deadline | Kerri Andrews | 2025-03-18 6:18:58 PM | ||
| course | HLTH 315 | HLTH 315 | Kerri Andrews | 2025-03-18 6:18:58 PM | ||
| term | HLTH 315 | Fall | Kerri Andrews | 2025-03-18 6:18:58 PM | ||
| year | HLTH 315 | 2022 | Kerri Andrews | 2025-03-18 6:18:58 PM | ||
| appeal_category_per_course | HLTH 315 | Drop a course after the academic deadline | Kerri Andrews | 2025-03-18 6:18:58 PM | ||
| course | HLTH 496 | HLTH 496 | Kerri Andrews | 2025-03-18 6:18:58 PM | ||
| term | HLTH 496 | Fall | Kerri Andrews | 2025-03-18 6:18:58 PM | ||
| year | HLTH 496 | 2022 | Kerri Andrews | 2025-03-18 6:18:58 PM | ||
| appeal_category_per_course | HLTH 496 | Drop a course after the academic deadline | Kerri Andrews | 2025-03-18 6:18:58 PM | ||
| course | HLTH 497 | HLTH 497 | Kerri Andrews | 2025-03-18 6:18:58 PM | ||
| term | HLTH 497 | Fall | Kerri Andrews | 2025-03-18 6:18:58 PM | ||
| year | HLTH 497 | 2022 | Kerri Andrews | 2025-03-18 6:18:58 PM | ||
| appeal_category_per_course | HLTH 497 | Drop a course after the academic deadline | Kerri Andrews | 2025-03-18 6:18:58 PM | ||
| course | PHIL 296 | PHIL 296 | Kerri Andrews | 2025-03-18 6:18:58 PM | ||
| term | PHIL 296 | Fall | Kerri Andrews | 2025-03-18 6:18:58 PM | ||
| year | PHIL 296 | 2022 | Kerri Andrews | 2025-03-18 6:18:58 PM | ||
| appeal_category_per_course | PHIL 296 | Drop a course after the academic deadline | Kerri Andrews | 2025-03-18 6:18:58 PM | ||
| course | BIOL 200 | BIOL 200 | Kerri Andrews | 2025-03-18 6:18:58 PM | ||
| term | BIOL 200 | Winter | Kerri Andrews | 2025-03-18 6:18:58 PM | ||
| year | BIOL 200 | 2023 | Kerri Andrews | 2025-03-18 6:18:58 PM | ||
| appeal_category_per_course | BIOL 200 | Drop a course after the academic deadline | Kerri Andrews | 2025-03-18 6:18:58 PM | ||
| course | EMPR 270 | EMPR 270 | Kerri Andrews | 2025-03-18 6:18:58 PM | ||
| term | EMPR 270 | Winter | Kerri Andrews | 2025-03-18 6:18:58 PM | ||
| year | EMPR 270 | 2023 | Kerri Andrews | 2025-03-18 6:18:58 PM | ||
| appeal_category_per_course | EMPR 270 | Drop a course after the academic deadline | Kerri Andrews | 2025-03-18 6:18:58 PM | ||
| professional_letter | N/A | Queens Dr Cecutti.pdf | Kerri Andrews | 2025-03-18 6:19:21 PM | ||
| appeal_category | N/A | Drop a course after the academic deadline, Waive the 21-day or one term deadline | Waive the 21-day or one term deadline | Kerri Andrews | 2025-03-18 6:19:21 PM | |
| status | N/A | Received | In Review | Kerri Andrews | 2025-03-18 6:19:33 PM | |
| status | N/A | In Review | Partial Grant | Kerri Andrews | 2025-04-21 2:33:00 PM | |
| associate_dean | N/A | Jenn Stephenson, Ph.D. | Kerri Andrews | 2025-04-21 2:33:00 PM | ||
| decision_letter | N/A | N/A | Decision letter sent | Kerri Andrews | 2025-04-21 2:36:20 PM |

