Submit an Academic Petition or Appeal

Petition Letter: I am writing to formally request approval for a late withdrawal from seven courses this year due to severe and ongoing health challenges that have directly impacted my ability to continue my coursework.
I have struggled with chronic depression since 2019, and substance abuse issues have compounded these challenges since 2024. These conditions have severely compromised my physical health, mental stability, and academic performance. In December 2024, I made the decision to take a semester off from school and enrolled in a rehabilitation program (May-June 2025) to address these issues. However, the program did not adequately resolve my underlying conditions. Following my discharge, I experienced severe exacerbations of my depression and other health complications related to medication adjustments. As a result, I required three emergency hospital visits due to crises over the past six months.
After taking time off last year to attend the rehabilitation program, I attempted to return to school this term. However, my health challenges have persisted and intensified. The seven courses I enrolled in across these two terms have been severely affected in the past six months. Each hospitalization resulted in missed classes, missed exams, and inability to complete coursework. My focus and cognitive function have been compromised by medication adjustments and ongoing medical appointments. The repeated crises have left me physically and emotionally depleted, and I am unable to manage the demands of a full course load or even a reduced course load while addressing these medical emergencies.
I have actively sought professional help to address these circumstances. In addition to the rehabilitation program, I am currently working with my healthcare providers, including psychiatric and medical specialists, to stabilize my conditions. I am committed to my long-term recovery and to completing my degree. I am requesting the late withdrawal not as a sign of giving up, but as a necessary and responsible step to prioritize my health and set a foundation for future academic success.
I am grateful for your consideration of this petition and welcome the opportunity to provide any additional information you may need.