Submit an Academic Petition or Appeal

Petition Letter: Dear Associate Dean (Academic),

I am writing to request an Incomplete (IN) for PSYC 343 in Fall 2025 due to extenuating circumstances beyond my control that have directly affected my academic performance and prevented me from completing one remaining course requirement by the deadline. While I am extremely grateful for the generosity of the instructor for the extensions I have already received, I am still facing barriers in handing this in today.

For approximately the past three years, I have experienced ongoing depression and anxiety symptoms. During this period, I also received an ADHD diagnosis. While I have worked to manage these challenges over time, my functioning has significantly worsened recently, and I am currently experiencing a period of severe burnout. This has had a direct impact on my ability to sustain concentration, organize tasks, and complete longer written work within deadlines. The situation has become especially difficult because my family has also been affected by a serious illness, which has added significant emotional strain and reduced my capacity to complete work efficiently despite continued effort.

Given these circumstances, I made efforts to remain engaged in PSYC 343 throughout the term. I attended every class and completed all required exams, including the midterm and final. I also completed all other coursework, including the other essay. The only remaining requirement is one outstanding essay, Paper 2 (worth 10%), which I was not able to complete by January 31st due to the factors described above.

I have taken active steps to address these challenges and support my academic functioning. I have been using supports through QSAS and Student Wellness Services, and I work with an external therapist.

I have tried my best to practice mindfulness consistently and consulted with a physician. These steps have helped me maintain attendance and complete exams, but my current burnout and family situation have made it difficult to finish the remaining written requirement on time.

In addition, I have been maintaining three part-time student jobs to meet essential expenses, which limits my flexibility during periods of worsened symptoms. I reduced shifts where possible and used available supports, but the combined impact of my health challenges and my family member’s illness significantly reduced my capacity for sustained written work.

I am currently working on obtaining a letter from a treating professional that confirms the timeline, functional impact, and current management of these circumstances. I will submit this documentation as soon as it is available.

I am requesting an Incomplete (IN) so I can complete and submit the remaining PSYC 343 essay while continuing my winter course load. I am committed to finishing the outstanding work and propose a realistic completion plan as soon as possible. I am prepared to coordinate with Dr. Hauser to confirm expectations and the final deadline for submission.

Thank you for your time and consideration of my request.

Julia