Manage Appeals
Petition Type: New
ID: 14399
Submitted: May 25, 2026 at 12:17:48 AM
First Name: Akshithaa
Last Name: Devaraj
Pronoun: She/ Her
Preferred Name: Akshithaa
Student Number: 20477680
Email: 23fc58@queensu.ca
Degree Program: BASc
Plan: KINE
Level of Study: 3
Petition Categories
Petition Categories: Waive the requirement to withdraw for one year
Petition Letter
Petition Letter: Dear Members of the Academic Appeals Committee,
I am writing to formally appeal the decision requiring me to withdraw from Queen’s University due to my academic standing. I understand the seriousness of this decision and I take full responsibility for my academic performance. I recognize that my grades did not meet the expectations of the university, and I sincerely regret reaching this point. However, I respectfully request that the committee consider the significant personal and external circumstances that affected my ability to perform at my usual academic level during this period.
During the semester, my academic performance was negatively affected by the severe flooding and national disruption that occurred in Sri Lanka. Although I was studying in Canada, the situation created constant stress and anxiety as my family and home environment were impacted. When I returned home during the winter break, I experienced the situation directly, and it was extremely difficult to focus on academics or prepare properly for the upcoming term. The instability caused by flooding, power cuts, shortages, and uncertainty created an overwhelming environment, and I found myself struggling emotionally and mentally while also trying to manage my coursework responsibilities. Even after returning to Canada, I continued to feel the effects of this disruption. The worry for my family and the stress of being far away from home affected my concentration, motivation, and ability to manage my time effectively.
I acknowledge that I should have taken stronger steps earlier to address these difficulties, including reaching out for academic assistance and student support services. I understand that personal circumstances do not remove my responsibility as a student, but they contributed greatly to the decline in my academic performance. This experience has made me realize that I must take a more structured and proactive approach to my studies and seek help immediately when challenges arise. I am committed to improving, and I am fully prepared to follow a clear academic plan to ensure that I meet the required standards moving forward. I value my education at Queen’s University, and I genuinely want the opportunity to continue in my program and demonstrate that I am capable of succeeding academically.
I respectfully request that the committee grant my appeal and allow me to continue my studies under academic probation or any conditions the university finds appropriate. I am determined to improve my GPA, rebuild my academic standing, and prove that I can meet the expectations of the university. Thank you for your time and consideration of my appeal.
Sincerely,
Akshithaa Devaraj
20477680
I am writing to formally appeal the decision requiring me to withdraw from Queen’s University due to my academic standing. I understand the seriousness of this decision and I take full responsibility for my academic performance. I recognize that my grades did not meet the expectations of the university, and I sincerely regret reaching this point. However, I respectfully request that the committee consider the significant personal and external circumstances that affected my ability to perform at my usual academic level during this period.
During the semester, my academic performance was negatively affected by the severe flooding and national disruption that occurred in Sri Lanka. Although I was studying in Canada, the situation created constant stress and anxiety as my family and home environment were impacted. When I returned home during the winter break, I experienced the situation directly, and it was extremely difficult to focus on academics or prepare properly for the upcoming term. The instability caused by flooding, power cuts, shortages, and uncertainty created an overwhelming environment, and I found myself struggling emotionally and mentally while also trying to manage my coursework responsibilities. Even after returning to Canada, I continued to feel the effects of this disruption. The worry for my family and the stress of being far away from home affected my concentration, motivation, and ability to manage my time effectively.
I acknowledge that I should have taken stronger steps earlier to address these difficulties, including reaching out for academic assistance and student support services. I understand that personal circumstances do not remove my responsibility as a student, but they contributed greatly to the decline in my academic performance. This experience has made me realize that I must take a more structured and proactive approach to my studies and seek help immediately when challenges arise. I am committed to improving, and I am fully prepared to follow a clear academic plan to ensure that I meet the required standards moving forward. I value my education at Queen’s University, and I genuinely want the opportunity to continue in my program and demonstrate that I am capable of succeeding academically.
I respectfully request that the committee grant my appeal and allow me to continue my studies under academic probation or any conditions the university finds appropriate. I am determined to improve my GPA, rebuild my academic standing, and prove that I can meet the expectations of the university. Thank you for your time and consideration of my appeal.
Sincerely,
Akshithaa Devaraj
20477680
Academic Plan
Academic Plan: Academic Plan – Petition to Continue Studies Following Required Withdrawal
Student Name: Akshithaa Devaraj
Student Number: 20477680
Program: Bachelor of Arts and Science
Institution: Queen’s University
1. Academic Goal
Long-Term Goal - Successfully complete my Bachelor of Arts and Science degree at Queen’s University
Academic Objective - Return to good academic standing and maintain consistent academic progress
Focus of Study - Continue in my current program while strengthening academic habits and study strategies
Performance Goal - Achieve grades that meet or exceed faculty academic expectations
2. Factors That Contributed to Academic Difficulties
Severe flooding and national disruptions affecting Sri Lanka - Increased stress, anxiety, and difficulty concentrating while studying abroad, External circumstances affected focus and emotional wellbeing
Family concerns while studying internationally - Reduced concentration and motivation, Worry regarding family circumstances impacted academic engagement.
Time management and study structure difficulties during periods of stress - Falling behind on coursework and preparation, Earlier intervention and stronger structure were needed.
Limited use of university support resources - Challenges were managed independently rather than proactively seeking assistance, I recognize the importance of accessing support earlier
3. Changes I Have Made / Will Make
Academic Strategies
• Attend all lectures consistently
• Begin assignments earlier to avoid last-minute pressure
• Develop a weekly study schedule with dedicated review periods
• Break large assignments into smaller deadlines
• Review course material weekly rather than only before exams
• Monitor academic progress regularly throughout the semester
Support Systems I Will Use
Academic Advising - Degree planning and academic monitoring as needed each semester
Professors and Teaching Assistants Clarify course concepts and seek guidance - regular office hours
Peer study groups, improve understanding and accountability Weekly
Student Academic Success Services Time management and study strategies Ongoing
Wellness supports when needed - Managing stress and maintaining wellbeing as needed
4. Course Load Management Plan
Course Load - Maintain a realistic and manageable academic workload
Scheduling - Use structured calendars and semester planning tools
Balance Prioritize academics while maintaining healthy personal routines
Early Intervention - Seek help immediately if academic concerns develop
5. Accountability and Progress Monitoring
I will monitor my progress by:
• Reviewing grades and course performance throughout the semester
• Adjusting study methods when performance concerns appear
• Meeting academic supports before challenges become significant
• Maintaining a consistent weekly study schedule
• Reflecting regularly on what strategies are working effectively
6. Statement of Commitment
I fully acknowledge my academic performance did not meet university expectations. I take responsibility for my results and recognize that I should have sought support earlier. The challenges I experienced helped me understand the importance of structure, proactive help-seeking, and consistent academic habits.
I am committed to implementing this academic plan fully and demonstrating that I can succeed academically at Queen’s University. I respectfully request the opportunity to continue my studies and demonstrate meaningful improvement.
Student Name: Akshithaa Devaraj
Student Number: 20477680
Program: Bachelor of Arts and Science
Institution: Queen’s University
1. Academic Goal
Long-Term Goal - Successfully complete my Bachelor of Arts and Science degree at Queen’s University
Academic Objective - Return to good academic standing and maintain consistent academic progress
Focus of Study - Continue in my current program while strengthening academic habits and study strategies
Performance Goal - Achieve grades that meet or exceed faculty academic expectations
2. Factors That Contributed to Academic Difficulties
Severe flooding and national disruptions affecting Sri Lanka - Increased stress, anxiety, and difficulty concentrating while studying abroad, External circumstances affected focus and emotional wellbeing
Family concerns while studying internationally - Reduced concentration and motivation, Worry regarding family circumstances impacted academic engagement.
Time management and study structure difficulties during periods of stress - Falling behind on coursework and preparation, Earlier intervention and stronger structure were needed.
Limited use of university support resources - Challenges were managed independently rather than proactively seeking assistance, I recognize the importance of accessing support earlier
3. Changes I Have Made / Will Make
Academic Strategies
• Attend all lectures consistently
• Begin assignments earlier to avoid last-minute pressure
• Develop a weekly study schedule with dedicated review periods
• Break large assignments into smaller deadlines
• Review course material weekly rather than only before exams
• Monitor academic progress regularly throughout the semester
Support Systems I Will Use
Academic Advising - Degree planning and academic monitoring as needed each semester
Professors and Teaching Assistants Clarify course concepts and seek guidance - regular office hours
Peer study groups, improve understanding and accountability Weekly
Student Academic Success Services Time management and study strategies Ongoing
Wellness supports when needed - Managing stress and maintaining wellbeing as needed
4. Course Load Management Plan
Course Load - Maintain a realistic and manageable academic workload
Scheduling - Use structured calendars and semester planning tools
Balance Prioritize academics while maintaining healthy personal routines
Early Intervention - Seek help immediately if academic concerns develop
5. Accountability and Progress Monitoring
I will monitor my progress by:
• Reviewing grades and course performance throughout the semester
• Adjusting study methods when performance concerns appear
• Meeting academic supports before challenges become significant
• Maintaining a consistent weekly study schedule
• Reflecting regularly on what strategies are working effectively
6. Statement of Commitment
I fully acknowledge my academic performance did not meet university expectations. I take responsibility for my results and recognize that I should have sought support earlier. The challenges I experienced helped me understand the importance of structure, proactive help-seeking, and consistent academic habits.
I am committed to implementing this academic plan fully and demonstrating that I can succeed academically at Queen’s University. I respectfully request the opportunity to continue my studies and demonstrate meaningful improvement.
Documentation
Professional Letter Detail: NO DOC
Document: supporting document .pdf
Decision Letters
History
Originally submitted May 25, 2026 at 12:17:48 AM.
| Field | Reference | Old Value | New Value | Note | User | Date/Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| status | N/A | Received | In Review | Kerri Andrews | 2026-05-28 11:04:48 AM | |
| status | N/A | In Review | Granted | Kerri Andrews | 2026-06-29 2:29:11 PM | |
| associate_dean | N/A | Dorit Naaman (Associate Dean Academic) | Kerri Andrews | 2026-06-29 2:29:11 PM | ||
| decision_letter | N/A | N/A | Decision letter sent | Kerri Andrews | 2026-06-29 2:29:44 PM |