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Petition Type: New
ID: 12974
Submitted: April 19, 2025 at 5:09:00 PM
First Name: shania
Last Name: Sookdeo
Pronoun: She/Her
Preferred Name: shania
Student Number: 20351547
Degree Program: BAS
Plan: Arts and science
Level of Study: 2

Petition Categories

Petition Categories: Waive the requirement to withdraw for a minimum of three years

Petition Letter

Petition Letter: Petition for Academic Standing Reconsideration

Shania Sookdeo

Student ID: 20351547

Date: 2025-04-19


To the Faculty Petition Committee,

I am writing to formally request a review of my academic standing and to petition against a potential requirement to withdraw from my studies. I understand this consideration may be based on my recent academic performance; however, I believe my circumstances warrant further review, particularly given the significant disruption caused by the recent PSAC strike led by teaching assistants.

The strike severely affected the delivery and support structure of my remaining three classes in the winter semester of 2025. As a student who previously returned from academic probation, I have been working hard to improve my academic standing. However, the lack of TA support — including missing tutorials, delayed assignment feedback, and limited access to academic assistance — significantly impacted my ability to perform to the best of my abilities this term. These disruptions made it difficult to keep up with course content and maintain the GPA required to remain in good standing.

This situation is especially disheartening because I have taken real steps toward academic improvement since returning from probation. I have been proactive in taking notes and attending all my classes, managing my time more effectively, and making sincere efforts to stay on track. Unfortunately, the strike created barriers outside my control that I believe should be taken into account.

I respectfully ask that you please consider the impact of these external factors and allow me to continue in my program. I remain committed to my academic goals and am confident that with proper support and a return to normal learning conditions, I can demonstrate continued improvement.
Thank you very much for considering my petition. I am willing to comply with any conditions the committee may set to support my academic success and would be happy to provide further documentation if necessary.

Sincerely,

Shania Sookdeo

21srs24@queensu.ca

Academic Plan

Academic Plan: ACADEMIC PLAN FOR SUCCESS
Student Name: Shania Sookdeo
Student ID: 20352547
Date: 2025-04-19

A. Course of Study
I am currently enrolled in my desired degree program and plan to remain in it. I will review my Academic Advisement Report in SOLUS to identify my remaining degree requirements and meet with an academic advisor to ensure that my course selection for the upcoming terms is appropriate and manageable.

B. Workload and Structure
To better manage my time and academic responsibilities, I plan to take a reduced course load (approximately 3–4 courses per term). This will help me better absorb course content, avoid falling behind, and maintain a more consistent study schedule. I will also consult Student Awards regarding the impact this may have on my OSAP or financial aid status.

C. Strategies for Academic Success
Academic Support: I will regularly attend office hours and actively communicate with instructors and TAs for help understanding course material.

Tutoring & Mentorship: I will register for Peer Tutoring through ASUS and consider joining a study group.

Skill Building: I will participate in Student Academic Success Services (SASS) workshops to improve time management, exam preparation, and academic writing.

Advising: I will meet with an academic advisor at least once per term to track my academic progress and adjust my strategy as needed.

Personal Wellbeing: If needed, I will seek support from Student Wellness Services to help me manage academic stress and balance responsibilities.

Documentation

Professional Letter Detail: NO DOC
Documentation Detail: NO DOC