Submit an Academic Petition or Appeal

Petition Letter: Dear Associate Dean,

I am writing this letter in request to late-drop PHIL 240 from the winter term of 2013 and PHIL 318 from the winter term of 2014. I am also requesting that the cost of these courses be refunded to me given my inability to complete them.

During that calendar year, my academic performance was compromised by an illness and I was unable to achieve the results that I am capable of. From the winter term of 2013 to the winter term of 2014, extreme physical pain resulted in low concentration and difficulty attending class on a consistent basis.

Due to their lighter workloads, my other courses during the winter semester of 2013 were manageable. However, I was unable to dedicate adequate attention to PHIL 240, which required numerous essays throughout the course. My absence from class isolated me from the course material, and I was unable to submit the required assignments.

I was able to complete a 500 level guided reading course, which I started in the fall semester of 2014, due to ongoing support from my professor as well as numerous and flexible extensions. This course did not require class attendance, which I found helpful given my circumstance. However, during the winter semester of 2014, my condition worsened. I dropped Philosophy of Religion before the deadline, and attempted to focus my attention on PHIL 318 alone. Unfortunately, my illness prevented me from completing that course as well.

Since my failed winter semester of 2014, I have taken two years off to focus on my health. As of May, 2014 I began a position with a company called Oxford Seminars. I started there as a part-time employee in the Customer Service department, and as my health improved, I was promoted to a full time role in a senior position.

My medical situation has now been addressed. The ongoing medical support and supervision of Dr. Jennifer Rae will allow me to remain proactive about my health. I have been working with David Youssef to devise an academic plan. I feel ready to re-approach my academic career in hopes of graduating with a General Arts Degree. Experience has taught me to avoid undertaking more than I am capable of. In an effort to remain in control of my course load, I will take no more than two courses per semester.

I would like to conclude my time at Queen¿¿s with the degree I set out to obtain. Your understanding in the form of an approved appeal would greatly assist me in achieving my goals.

I appreciate your consideration of my request.

Sincerely,

Lisa Cameron