Submit an Academic Petition or Appeal

Petition Letter: To: Associate Dean (Studies),

I am appealing to drop courses after the deadline.

I attended Queen¿¿s University from 2009-2013 as a student in the Arts and Science Faculty. I pursued a Bachelor¿¿s of Science in Psychology, showing a strong interest and academic aptitude. During my fourth year at Queen¿¿s my academic performance and mental health began to suffer due to extenuating circumstances.

In Fall 2012 a close friend attempted suicide. I was distraught and blamed myself for not preventing it. I worried constantly during classes discussing mental illness, and felt powerless to help. This stressor contributed to my insomnia and eating disorders. I worried about relapse and felt responsible for her wellness and safety, so I prioritized helping her over my academics responsibilities. I was chronically distracted, exhausted and unable to focus or think clearly.

I contacted Dr. Atkinson to discuss my academic concerns. With guidance I dropped PSYC323 and PSYC300; a mandatory requirement of the psychology program. This meant I would not graduate that year, and was unable to meet the basic academic requirements for my program. This holds strong merit as this was authorized by the Undergraduate Chair for the Department of Psychology upon seeking academic counsel. I received an F grade in Advanced Abnormal Psychology(PSYC435) despite receiving an A- grade in Abnormal Psychology(PSYC235) my previous semester. This shows a significant decline in overall academic achievement for comparable courses, belying the severity of the circumstance. I was embarrassed and disappointed in my efforts to get help.

My living situation and mental health worsened during the 2013 Winter semester. I was lacking support and stability, becoming increasingly depressed and anxious. My roommate struggled with alcohol and drug abuse, and I repeatedly found her in an intoxicated state with visible self-harm wounds. I would try to help; providing first-aid and encouraging her to seek professional help. I struggled to eat or sleep normally, and fought substance abuse as a method of self-medicating. My brain felt foggy and I regularly began experiencing debilitating migraines. My grades suffered, incomplete work piled up and I fell further behind in my classes. I worried my parents would be disappointed and angry, and was embarrassed so I isolated myself from friends and family. I became sedentary, neglected personal hygiene and cleanliness. I stopped attending class and completing my school work. I was unable to care for myself or complete my work.

I made a mistake not seeking professional help at this time. Mental illness often goes undiagnosed and untreated, resulting in significantly impaired functioning, increased distress and decline in those suffering. I did not graduate from Queen¿¿s and left without giving notice. I did not complete my assignments or exams and received an F grade for PSYC355, PSYC455, and PSYC471. I completed PSYC342 Psychology of Social Influence and received a C+ grading, scoring significantly below my grade of A+ for Social Psychology the previous year.

Months later I admitted my struggle with mental illness and through my own actions and determination I helped myself. I contacted the Canadian Mental Health Association and organized a fundraiser for mental health awareness. I spent 3 months solo-hiking 850km on the Appalachian Trail to prove to myself I could be strong, symbolic of my fight with mental illness. I became a certified yoga teacher and spent several hundred hours studying, practicing, and volunteering; helping others and finding peace and health within this dedication. I am currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in September 2016. I intend to use this nursing degree towards become a Nursing Officer with the Canadian Forces.

I am appealing to drop courses after the deadline because I want to fix my mistakes. My mental health was problematic, I displayed marked signs of distress and inability to function, both personally and academically due to extenuating circumstances. My grades during that time are NOT an accurate representation of my true academic abilities or potential. I am concerned this will seriously harm my chances of acceptance into university for nursing and a future career with the Canadian Forces.

I am requesting to drop courses PSYC435, PSYC355, PSYC455, and PSYC471 after the deadline. I have used my time away from university to learn to effectively deal with obstacles and mental illness. I am healthy, mature and ready to make the most of a second chance. I acknowledge the mistakes I¿¿ve made and accept full responsibility for my actions and the consequences. I have worked diligently to improve myself and to create a solid support network. I have a clear vision for my future and am motivated to reach my goals.

Thank you for taking the time to consider my request. Please contact me if you have any questions.

Sincerely,

Natasha Serbin

0 612 8550
n_serbin@hotmail.com
613-836-3602
20 Pullman Ave, Ottawa, ON,
K2S 1C4