Submit an Academic Petition or Appeal

Petition Letter: Dear Associate Dean,

I am writing to formally request credit standing for the Winter 2024 semester. During this term, I faced a severe escalation of mental health challenges related to a diagnosis of anxiety and depression, which I have been managing since Fall 2022. Unfortunately, towards the final third of the Winter 2024 semester, I experienced a significant mental health crisis that directly impacted my ability to complete my academic responsibilities. After weeks without sleep, it reached a point where I had to make a decision prioritizing my own health and safety over anything else.

Although I was enrolled in four courses during that semester, I was unable to complete the final examinations for each of them, which resulted in receiving zeroes on those assessments. This did not cause me to fail any of the courses outright; however, it drastically reduced my final grades across the board, culminating in a GPA of 1.4 for the term. This outcome has had a considerable negative impact on my cumulative GPA and my academic standing overall.

At the time, I did not drop any of these courses because the full severity of my condition did not manifest until roughly two-thirds into the semester—well after the drop deadline. When the crisis did arise, it became clear that I could no longer manage the academic workload, which ultimately led to my decision to withdraw from studies for the time being.

Since leaving school, I have taken significant steps to address my mental health and rebuild a strong foundation for success. I have been under the care of medical professionals, including physicians, psychiatrists, and a therapist, and I continue to attend regular therapy sessions. These efforts have resulted in substantial improvements in both my mental health and my overall well-being. Working full-time since September has provided me with much-needed structure and stability, helping me to regain a sense of clarity, motivation, and direction.

I am now eager and fully prepared to resume my studies. In consultation with academic advisors, I have developed a sustainable academic plan. As I enter my final year of the undergraduate Philosophy program, I will maintain a reduced course load of no more than four courses per semester. This balance has proven to be effective in managing my workload without becoming overwhelmed, and it reflects my commitment to academic responsibility and long-term success.

I sincerely appreciate your time and attention in reviewing this appeal. I am deeply grateful for the support I have already received from Queen’s and am committed to making the most of this opportunity to continue my education. My passion for learning has only grown stronger through this time of reflection and healing, and I am confident in my ability to succeed moving forward.

Thank you very much for your consideration.

Daniel