Submit an Academic Petition or Appeal

Petition Letter: Associate Dean of Studies: Sue Blake,

I am appealing to receive aegrotat standing (AG) in MATH 126 (Winter, 2017) because of mental health issues I am currently suffering from. I have a note from my doctor indicating specifically what I am undergoing currently.

My academic performance has been directly affected by some mental health issues that I have been experiencing this year and specifically this semester. I am suffering from depression and anxiety and have recently have been to the doctor concerning a possible Attention Deficit Disorder diagnosis. This diagnosis is still being looked at as of right now. This has been ongoing most of the year and has affected my academic performance in a negative way. Because of my depression, I have experienced a severe lack of motivation, have not been sleeping properly and I am having a very hard time getting out of bed. Because of my anxiety, I am not able to focus, I have anxiety attacks weekly and I am constantly stressed out and anxious. I have not been able to keep up with my work, attend lectures and simply function properly because of my current state of mental health. I have always struggled with attentiveness and focus however I never considered that there may have been a problem present. This is because I, like many first year students, have realized how much different the university environment is and how much more work has to be put in to succeed. As well, last exam season I had immense difficulty. As a result of a probable Attention Deficit Disorder diagnosis, I failed 3/4 of my exams because I could not focus in a room with that many people. I am regularly a very motivated and intellectual individual however my current state of mental health has severely affected my academic performance. Obviously, this is all beyond my control until I receive a prescription that works well for me and brings me back to my normal state of being.

In order to achieve academic success, I have a plan in mind that I know will help me strive towards and achieve academic success. I am still seeing my doctor and considering options towards the recovery of my mental health. I have finally reached out to my parents and I am receiving support at home. I am scheduled to receive testing in order to find out whether I have Attention Deficit Disorder. Upon finding out what the issue may be, my doctor is willing to help me cope and receive support. As well, I have looked into what possible accommodations I will be able to receive in my upcoming years at Queen¿¿s when writing exams; my doctor is on board to support me and ensure I have all of the documents necessary in order for these accommodations to be granted by QSAS. As well, I am planning to take a lighter course load throughout the year and maybe consider staying on track by taking courses during the summer if possible. These plans will support my academic goals because I know that when I get the help I need I will be able to be in a regular routine where I do not have to worry about having mental health issues. My doctor has indicated that he will ensure I will be able to focus, pay attention during lectures and not be so anxious about school. When I am feeling better, I know that I will be able to achieve my academic goals and get back to my usual self: a successful and motivated student. I know what I am capable of and do not plan to let something that can be controlled, with help of my doctor, to get in my way.

I ask that you take my appeal into consideration and I thank you for taking the time to read and consider my situation.

Patrice Oliveira