Submit an Academic Petition or Appeal

Petition Letter: Dear Associate Dean,

I am writing to request a late drop for the following courses:

• ANAT 100 – Winter 2025
• BIOL 103 – Winter 2025
• ENGL 100 – Summer 2025
• MATH 121 – Summer 2025

In February 2026, I was diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). This diagnosis helped me understand the challenges I faced during the 2024–2025 academic year and how they affected my coursework.

During Winter 2025 and Summer 2025, I struggled to start and complete assignments. I often wanted to begin my work but couldn't get started. As deadlines approached, I felt overwhelmed and fell behind in several courses. At the time, I thought that if I just tried harder, I would be able to catch up and finish the work. I experienced similar difficulties during high school as well, but at that time I had a stronger support system while living with my family in Nova Scotia. The additional structure and support made it easier for me to keep up with my schoolwork.

I didn't realize that my difficulties were symptoms of ADHD. I didn't understand why I was having trouble focusing and starting tasks. As a result, I kept trying to complete the courses instead of dropping them before the deadline. Unfortunately, my struggles with starting tasks, focusing, and managing my time prevented me from completing the coursework, and I failed the four courses listed above.

I tried to get help through Queen’s resources during this time. I met with an advisor and a campus therapist. However, I still didn't understand what was going on. I began exploring ADHD and researching strategies to help manage my symptoms and improve my productivity. I started applying some of these strategies, which helped improve my academic performance, as seen in my Fall semester grades. I later received an official ADHD diagnosis in February 2026. This diagnosis helped me understand why I had struggled so much with starting work, meeting deadlines, and keeping up with my academic responsibilities.

Since receiving my diagnosis, I have taken steps to manage my ADHD and improve my performance. I am currently taking medication, Vyvanse, and have been working on new strategies to manage my time and complete my coursework.

If this petition is granted, I plan to continue my studies in the Faculty of Arts and Science while maintaining the strategies and treatment that are helping me manage my ADHD. I will also continue working with advising and using the strategies I have developed to stay organized and complete my coursework successfully.

I have attached my ADHD treatment contract as supporting documentation, and I would be happy to provide any additional information if needed.

Thank you for taking the time to review my petition to drop ANAT 100, BIOL 103, ENGL 100, and MATH 121.

Sincerely,
Chloe MacDonald
20489741