Submit an Academic Petition or Appeal

Petition Letter: To the Academic Appeals Committee,

I am writing to respectfully request that my withdrawal from the University be reconsidered.

My withdrawal occurred because, at the time my academic standing was reviewed, several of my courses still had deferred examinations outstanding. As a result, my final grades and cumulative GPA were not yet available, and the review was conducted using incomplete academic information.

Once my deferred examinations were completed and graded, my academic record changed significantly. My final grades were much stronger, and my cumulative GPA increased accordingly. Following the release of these grades, I received an email from the University confirming that I was no longer on academic probation. This demonstrates that the original withdrawal decision was based on incomplete information rather than my final academic performance.

I would also like to provide some context regarding the circumstances that affected my earlier academic performance. Last semester, I was in the process of registering with QSAS due to my documented disability. Unfortunately, because of long wait times, I was unable to obtain my intake appointment until approximately one week before the December examination period. As a result, I was unable to access accommodations throughout the semester when I needed them most, which had a significant impact on my academic performance.

This past semester was different. I was registered with QSAS from the beginning of the term, allowing me to receive appropriate accommodations throughout the semester. In addition, after working closely with my healthcare provider, I was finally prescribed the appropriate medication, which substantially improved my ability to focus, manage my coursework, and perform academically.

The improvement in my academic results this semester reflects my true capabilities when I have access to the proper supports. My recent grades and updated GPA demonstrate that the challenges affecting my previous performance have been addressed and that I am capable of succeeding at Queen's University.

I respectfully ask the Committee to consider my updated academic record and the circumstances surrounding my withdrawal. Since the withdrawal decision was made before my deferred examination grades were available, I hope my case can be reassessed using my complete academic record.

Thank you very much for your time and consideration. I sincerely appreciate the opportunity to have my petition reviewed, and I hope to continue my studies at Queen's University.

Sincerely,

Yasseen Madi