Submit an Academic Petition or Appeal

Petition Letter: Alexander Aston
20025631



I am appealing to drop film 110 late, and a credit standing for ECON 110, PSYC 100, and POLS 101 (fall 2016/winter 2017)

(I plan on retaking PSYCH 100 to achieve a better grade and to potentially choose PSYC as a major.)

Dear Associate Dean,

During the start of my 2016 academic year, my OCD became more pronounced due to my intense hygiene issues (germ phobia) which was exacerbated by a new environment. Historically, I have managed this anxiety by ensuring I am home during an acute onset. My mother was aware this was extreme and was able to obtain a note from our family physician. This form confirmed the anxiety issue and was submitted to Queens during the month of October 2016. I am very grateful Queens was accommodating during this time and switched my residence.

Living in residence, being away from home, having to share bathroom facilities for the first year was intensifying my excessive fear of germs. The pervasive and anticipatory anxiety left me feeling powerless. During the first few months, I went home every other weekend as a reprieve from the anxious build up. Being in my own home with access to familiar facilities, was calming. Because of this, I was hindered from fully participating and focusing on classes. Some days it was difficult to complete simple tasks such as showering, brushing my teeth, or even finishing meals. I felt perpetually anxious, fatigued and too overwhelmed to function normally. It was an unfortunate start to the school year, however, after a few months, I found some coping skills which helped to allay my anxieties. On that note, I would like to also take this opportunity to express my gratitude to Student Services for accommodating my needs and switching me to a more private room. This, also, was instrumental in making it possible to continue living in a residence environment and completing first year.

I am now feeling very settled and happy to be back at Queens University. It is a supportive institution and I plan on working diligently to make the next few years meaningful and successful. Living in a house now as opposed to residence has also made my transition in to university life much easier. I am now able to cook from home, have my own shower/bathroom and also a quiet living/working space which makes all the difference for my academic future. Moving forward, I have found coping mechanisms along with the continued support from my family, I have embarked on a rigorous, regimented health regime which includes proper nutrition and daily exercise. All of which have contributed to my recovery which in turn has given me renewed confidence and peace of mind in my everyday life which undoubtedly includes academics.

In closing, I would like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank the Queens administration for their support and understanding. It is because of this environment, I was adamant on a confident return for the 2017-18 academic year at Queens University. Please note Queens has a doctors form on file regarding this anxiety, however contact me through my school email if you require further documentation.

Attached is a note from my mother in regards to my anxiety in first year.