Submit an Academic Petition or Appeal

Petition Letter: Dear Associate Dean,

I am writing to respectfully request approval for a late withdrawal from my course.

This request arises from a misunderstanding regarding my academic standing and the advice I received from my instructor. During the semester, I experienced significant disruption due to my circumstances living and working in Bahrain, particularly given the regional conflict at the time. After discussing my situation with my professor, she advised me that a late drop would be appropriate and indicated that she would support such a petition. Based on this guidance, my understanding was that withdrawing from the course would be the best course of action, and that I could simply complete another course to fulfill my remaining degree requirement.

Following this advice, I enrolled in another course to replace the original one, believing that I would be able to withdraw. However, when I attempted to process the late drop, I discovered that I had in fact already passed the course. As a result, I now find myself enrolled in an additional course that is no longer required for my degree.

Had I known that I had successfully completed the original course, I would never have enrolled in another. Unfortunately, by the time this became clear, I had already committed to the additional course and was beyond the normal withdrawal deadlines.

Since then, my circumstances have changed considerably. I have recently relocated to Doha, Qatar, to begin a new position. This role is demanding and requires a significant time commitment as I establish myself in a new organization and country.

In addition, living in the Gulf region during ongoing geopolitical tensions has created an added layer of stress and uncertainty. While I remain committed to my professional responsibilities, these external circumstances have made it more challenging to dedicate the time and focus that an additional university course deserves.

I have worked diligently throughout my degree and have always intended to complete my studies responsibly. This situation was not the result of a lack of commitment, but rather an honest misunderstanding that arose after following my instructor’s advice. My intention was simply to complete the final requirement for my degree in the manner I believed had been recommended to me.

I respectfully ask that the Faculty consider granting a late withdrawal from this unnecessary additional course. Doing so would allow my academic record to accurately reflect the coursework required for my degree, while also recognizing the unique circumstances that led to this situation.

Thank you very much for taking the time to consider my request. I sincerely appreciate your understanding and would be grateful for any consideration you are able to provide. If any further documentation or clarification would be helpful, I would be pleased to provide it.

Kind regards,

Caroline White