Submit an Academic Petition or Appeal

Petition Letter: My name is Paige Turner (Student #20411680), and I am writing to formally request that my final grades in PHYS 115 and CHEM 112, completed during my first year at Queen’s University, be replaced with Credit (CR) standing due to documented and extenuating personal and medical circumstances that significantly impacted my academic performance during that time.

In early July of this year, I was formally diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), a condition that has gone undiagnosed and untreated throughout my entire academic career until now. This diagnosis has been pivotal in helping me understand the persistent academic and personal challenges I have faced since beginning university. Throughout my first year, I struggled with severe difficulties in concentration, time management, organization, and emotional regulation, all hallmark symptoms of ADHD that were unrecognized and therefore unaddressed at the time. These impairments directly interfered with my ability to effectively study for and succeed in PHYS 115 and CHEM 112.

In addition to the cognitive and academic impacts of untreated ADHD, I was also dealing with significant domestic stress due to my parents’ separation, which placed a great deal of emotional strain on me throughout the academic year. This situation was beyond my control and contributed to persistent anxiety, emotional exhaustion, and an unstable home environment, all of which further disrupted my focus and ability to perform academically.

I was also a member of the Queen’s varsity soccer team during this time, which, rather than providing support, became a source of psychological strain. The environment was emotionally taxing and did not foster healthy development during a time when I was already vulnerable. As a result, I made the difficult decision to leave the team in later years in order to prioritize my academic and personal wellbeing.

Compounding these issues was a misdiagnosis of depression and anxiety in my first year, which led to inappropriate pharmacological treatment. The side effects of this treatment were severe and destabilizing, including manic episodes, mood instability, and cognitive disturbances, which further impaired my academic engagement and performance. I have since been placed on a more accurate and appropriate treatment plan for ADHD, which has significantly improved my functionality, focus, and academic motivation.

Together, these overlapping challenges created an environment in which it was simply not possible to perform to my potential in PHYS 115 and CHEM 112. Despite my best efforts at the time, my grades in these courses are not reflective of my academic abilities or work ethic, but rather of a period marked by undiagnosed neurodevelopmental disability, medical mismanagement, and family distress.

Since receiving my diagnosis, I have taken proactive steps to manage my condition and rebuild my academic foundation. This has included consistent treatment with appropriate medication, the development of executive functioning strategies, and the reduction of external commitments such as stepping away from the varsity soccer team that previously hindered my academic progress. As a result, I am now better supported, properly medicated, and have made meaningful lifestyle adjustments to prioritize my academic success and personal well-being.

I am confident in my ability to move forward successfully, and I respectfully request that my first-year grades in PHYS 115 and CHEM 112 be changed to Credit standing in recognition of the exceptional and documented circumstances that affected my performance. I am more than willing to provide supporting documentation, including medical records and letters from healthcare professionals. Additionally, I would be happy to provide evidence of my improved academic performance, such as confirmation that I have achieved at least a 3.0 GPA during my third year as a reflection of the progress I have made and the stability I have since attained. I am also on track to continue as an undergraduate TA for ANAT 100 and ANAT 215 in the fall semester under Dr. Mackenzie's supervision.

Thank you very much for your time, consideration, and understanding.