Submit an Academic Petition or Appeal

Petition Letter: Petition to Waive Requirement to Withdraw

To the Associate Dean (Academic),
Faculty of Arts and Science,
I am writing to respectfully request a waiver of the requirement to withdraw due to my academic performance in the previous Fall and Winter semesters. I recognize that my cumulative GPA does not currently meet the academic requirements. However, I hope to explain the significant extenuating circumstances that contributed to my performance and to demonstrate how I have since taken meaningful steps to address them and improve.

At the beginning of the academic year, I moved into the university environment just one day before classes began. I had no prior experience navigating university systems and was unfamiliar with how to access academic or support resources, I didn't even fully understand how tuition payments worked. This abrupt transition left me overwhelmed and unprepared. I also experienced serious social anxiety, which made it extremely difficult to participate in class, attend labs, ask for help, join group discussions, or connect with peers. These feelings were further compounded by unresolved family issues, which placed a heavy emotional burden on me. As a result, I struggled both academically and personally throughout the Fall and Winter terms.

Since then, I have made significant progress. I sought help from academic advisors who helped me create a plan for moving forward. I have also fully resolved the family issues that contributed to my emotional stress. To support my academic recovery, I’ve built a disciplined daily routine, which I follow closely to ensure I stay focused and consistent. I have also made strong social connections, which have provided me with support and greatly boosted my confidence and sense of belonging. For the first time, I feel more like a person — not just someone trying to survive through each day.

My current summer semester performance reflects this progress. I am taking Math 121 and have scored 100% on all four Webwork tests so far. I also earned 100% on my first mastery test and have completed two tutorials with an average of 86%. These results show that when I am in a stable and supported environment, I am more than capable of academic success.

Looking ahead, I plan to continue following my routine, regularly meet with academic advisors, and make full use of available resources such as office hours, counseling, and tutorials. I will also stay organized and ask for help early when I need it. I am fully committed to maintaining strong academic performance.

I understand the importance of academic standards and take full responsibility for my previous performance. If necessary, I would fully accept an academic probation status, and any conditions required to demonstrate my commitment to success. I am not asking for an exception without reason, only for the opportunity to prove that the challenges I faced were temporary and that I am now equipped to succeed. Thank you for considering my petition.

Sincerely,
Dev Patel
Student ID Number: 20491281