Submit an Academic Petition or Appeal

Petition Letter: To the Faculty of Arts and Science Academic Standing Committee,

I am writing to formally petition for academic consideration for the 2024–2025 academic year (Fall and Winter Terms) due to serious extenuating circumstances that were beyond my control. During this period, I experienced significant mental health challenges related to my diagnosed Major Depressive Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder. These conditions severely interfered with my ability to maintain consistent academic performance throughout the year.

Although I have managed these conditions for some time, my symptoms intensified substantially beginning in October 2024 and continued to affect me through the end of the Winter 2025 term. During this time, I experienced persistent difficulty with concentration, motivation, sleep, and intrusive thoughts, which made it extremely challenging to complete coursework, attend lectures regularly, and perform effectively on evaluations. I also experienced repetitive actions and compulsions that made it difficult to complete schoolwork in a timely manner, as well as intrusive thoughts related to particular topics covered in some of my classes, which often caused distress and avoidance that interfered with studying and assignment completion. Tasks that I would normally manage with ease became overwhelming, and my ability to keep pace with academic expectations deteriorated despite my best efforts.

The impact of these mental health struggles was evident across several of my courses. I fell behind on assignments and, in some cases, was unable to submit required work or prepare adequately for exams. My reduced focus, fatigue, and emotional distress also affected my participation and overall academic engagement. These challenges were not a reflection of a lack of effort or interest, but rather the direct result of the psychological difficulties I was facing during this academic year.

Throughout this period, I made every effort to manage my conditions responsibly. I have been actively engaged in treatment through medication and regular psychotherapy appointments, and I have also been in regular communication with my general physician to monitor my symptoms and treatment progress. Despite these ongoing efforts, the severity and persistence of my symptoms continued to interfere with my academic performance.

I am now continuing consistent treatment and have been working to implement stronger coping strategies and academic support systems to ensure greater stability moving forward. I am deeply committed to my education and to maintaining the progress I have made in both my mental health and academic goals.

I respectfully ask that the Committee consider these extenuating circumstances in reviewing my petition for the 2024–2025 academic year. I am registered with Queen’s Student Accessibility Services (QSAS) for these disabilities, which has allowed me to access ongoing support and accommodations to manage my conditions more effectively. Thank you very much for your time, understanding, and consideration of my situation.

All the best,
Holly