Submit an Academic Petition or Appeal

Petition Letter: To the Academic Review Committee,

I am writing to submit a petition for a late drop of my courses from the Fall/Winter 2025–2026 term. My academic performance during this period was significantly affected by a series of extenuating circumstances beyond my control, which are supported by documentation from my healthcare provider.

From November 2025 to the present, I have been managing medically documented health-related complications associated with a pregnancy. These physical health challenges affected my ability to consistently attend classes, complete coursework on time, and maintain a high level of academic performance. During this period, I was also required to continue working, which further limited the time available to devote to my studies and compounded the impact on my academic responsibilities.

In addition to the physical health impacts, I experienced significant psychological distress related to the same situation. These challenges were closely connected to family and relationship stressors arising from the circumstances of the pregnancy. Together, these factors contributed to ongoing emotional strain throughout the Fall and Winter terms.

Furthermore, I was involved in a legal housing issue with my landlord, which resulted in an unexpected requirement to vacate my residence prior to the end of my lease. This caused significant disruption to my living situation and created additional instability and stress during an already difficult period.

These circumstances had a direct impact on my academic performance, particularly affecting my ability to maintain consistent coursework completion and academic engagement later in the Fall term and significantly during the Winter term, after a strong academic start in the Fall semester.

During this time, I sought medical support and followed the guidance of healthcare professionals, as reflected in the attached documentation. I also took steps to stabilize my housing situation and continue managing my academic responsibilities to the best of my ability, given the circumstances.

I respectfully request approval for a late course drop for the affected courses in light of these circumstances.

Sincerely,
Caitlin Tesluk-Servos