Submit an Academic Petition or Appeal

Petition Letter: May 16, 2016

Dr. Johanne Benard
Associate Dean (Studies)
Arts and Science Faculty
Queen's University

Dear Dr. Johanne Benard (Associate Dean (Studies)),

I am writing for a Credit Standing (CR) request in appealing my final grades for the following three courses; BIOL 103, MATH 121, and PSYC 100.

I came to Queen's University in September involved in a long distance relationship, by the end of the month it quickly developed into a toxic relationship and break up. As time went on I was emotionally and verbally abused by this individual. He took control of my thoughts and mentally manipulated my decisions. It affected my ability to focus in class, follow my course outlines, and apply my usual effort into my assignments and studies. In November and December this further developed into being incapable of getting out of bed, attending classes, and eating regularly. My mind and body were physically and mentally in a depressed state by the time I finished first semester.

When I returned in January I continued to struggle with getting myself back on track, which resulted in me reaching out for extra help. While I waited to see a counsellor on campus, I had two over the phone counselling appointments through my parent's employee and family assistance program. In early February I started seeing Arunima Khanna at the Student Wellness Centre on campus. She diagnosed me situational depression and expressed concerns about my grades. Arunima taught me ways to cope with this situation and advised me to not engage in the negative or worrisome thoughts I was experiencing. By the middle of March I successfully put this toxic relationship behind me and was able to regain my happiness. Unfortunately by this time it was too difficult to catch up on all of my readings, along with getting my BIOL 103, MATH 121, and PSYC 100 grades up to my full potential. However, I was tutored in CHEM 112 throughout the year and most of my major assignments in PHAR 100 were due at the end of the term.

Thankfully I have overcome this state of depression and I am confident that I will be able to focus and concentrate on my studies during the next academic year. My personal goal is to fully engage in my courses, and recover my grades to the level I have consistently achieved throughout my academic career. If required I will seek guidance from academic counsellors and peer tutors.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

Alexandra Biniaris