Manage Appeals
Petition Type: New
ID: 14203
Submitted: April 23, 2026 at 1:56:30 PM
First Name: Arvind
Last Name: Jassal
Pronoun: he/him
Student Number: 20458261
Email: arvind.j@queensu.ca
Degree Program: BAH
Plan: PPE
Level of Study: 2
Petition Categories
Petition Categories: Request credit (CR) standing in a course or courses
Code: PSYC 100
Term: Fall/Winter
Year: 2024
Petition Category: Request credit (CR) standing in a course or courses
Instructor's Name: Meghan Norris
Petition Letter
Petition Letter: To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing to formally petition regarding my performance in PSYC 100B and to respectfully request consideration for a CR grade. The period surrounding this course was significantly affected by extenuating personal circumstances beyond my control, which had a direct and substantial impact on my academic performance.
In the time leading up to my first exam, my household was experiencing considerable financial stress. A planned home closing was unexpectedly unable to proceed, creating uncertainty about our housing situation and placing ongoing pressure on my family. This instability caused significant stress regarding where we would live and weighed heavily on me during an already academically demanding period.
At the same time, there were serious familial tensions within my home. My aunt was temporarily residing with us, which contributed to the ongoing conflict between my parents. These conflicts frequently escalated into intense arguments, and I was often placed in the middle, with both parents expressing their concerns to me. I felt a strong sense of responsibility to mediate and support both sides, which became emotionally overwhelming. Despite my efforts, I was limited in how much I could do to resolve these issues, which added further stress and a sense of helplessness.
Although it was not as significant as the family and financial challenges described above, I was also going through a breakup in my personal life during this period, which added to the emotional strain I was already experiencing.
These circumstances occurred in the days leading up to my first PSYC 100B exam, making it especially difficult to focus, prepare effectively, and perform to my usual academic standard. This exam ultimately became my lowest grade of the year. As it was also my first university-level final exam experience in this class, the result created additional pressure and anxiety to improve, which further affected my well-being.
Given the toll these circumstances were taking on me, I also sought medical support from my doctor. This step reflected the seriousness of the stress I was experiencing during that period.
Shortly afterward, my aunt moved out, and the level of conflict within my household decreased significantly. Although some financial stress persisted, the most intense familial tensions subsided, and I was better able to regain focus in my academic work.
During this time, I did make efforts to seek support. However, access to instructional assistance was somewhat limited due to the TA strike, which resulted in longer response times and reduced availability of help. I also reached out to peers and sought guidance where possible. In addition, I tried to support my family by encouraging communication and acting as a mediator, particularly with my mother, although this often added to my own emotional strain.
Overall, the combined effects of financial instability, family conflict, limited academic support, and the emotional burden I was carrying significantly impacted my ability to perform on my first exam. I do not believe this outcome accurately reflects my true academic capabilities, particularly as my performance improved once these circumstances became more stable.
I respectfully ask that my situation be considered in light of these extenuating circumstances. Thank you very much for your time and consideration. I would be happy to provide further information regarding the depth of my situation, and I would prefer to do so over the phone or via Zoom if needed.
Sincerely,
Arvind Jassal
I am writing to formally petition regarding my performance in PSYC 100B and to respectfully request consideration for a CR grade. The period surrounding this course was significantly affected by extenuating personal circumstances beyond my control, which had a direct and substantial impact on my academic performance.
In the time leading up to my first exam, my household was experiencing considerable financial stress. A planned home closing was unexpectedly unable to proceed, creating uncertainty about our housing situation and placing ongoing pressure on my family. This instability caused significant stress regarding where we would live and weighed heavily on me during an already academically demanding period.
At the same time, there were serious familial tensions within my home. My aunt was temporarily residing with us, which contributed to the ongoing conflict between my parents. These conflicts frequently escalated into intense arguments, and I was often placed in the middle, with both parents expressing their concerns to me. I felt a strong sense of responsibility to mediate and support both sides, which became emotionally overwhelming. Despite my efforts, I was limited in how much I could do to resolve these issues, which added further stress and a sense of helplessness.
Although it was not as significant as the family and financial challenges described above, I was also going through a breakup in my personal life during this period, which added to the emotional strain I was already experiencing.
These circumstances occurred in the days leading up to my first PSYC 100B exam, making it especially difficult to focus, prepare effectively, and perform to my usual academic standard. This exam ultimately became my lowest grade of the year. As it was also my first university-level final exam experience in this class, the result created additional pressure and anxiety to improve, which further affected my well-being.
Given the toll these circumstances were taking on me, I also sought medical support from my doctor. This step reflected the seriousness of the stress I was experiencing during that period.
Shortly afterward, my aunt moved out, and the level of conflict within my household decreased significantly. Although some financial stress persisted, the most intense familial tensions subsided, and I was better able to regain focus in my academic work.
During this time, I did make efforts to seek support. However, access to instructional assistance was somewhat limited due to the TA strike, which resulted in longer response times and reduced availability of help. I also reached out to peers and sought guidance where possible. In addition, I tried to support my family by encouraging communication and acting as a mediator, particularly with my mother, although this often added to my own emotional strain.
Overall, the combined effects of financial instability, family conflict, limited academic support, and the emotional burden I was carrying significantly impacted my ability to perform on my first exam. I do not believe this outcome accurately reflects my true academic capabilities, particularly as my performance improved once these circumstances became more stable.
I respectfully ask that my situation be considered in light of these extenuating circumstances. Thank you very much for your time and consideration. I would be happy to provide further information regarding the depth of my situation, and I would prefer to do so over the phone or via Zoom if needed.
Sincerely,
Arvind Jassal
Documentation
Professional Letter: DR NOTE.pdf