Submit an Academic Petition or Appeal

Petition Letter: Dear Associate Dean (Studies),
I am appealing for an Aegrotat (AG) standing in ANAT 100 (Summer, 2017).

My request is due to ongoing mental health struggles beyond my control that have effectively impacted my academic performance during my time at Queen's. These extenuating circumstances have significantly impacted my academic ability to perform adequately in my Anatomy Course.

I have worked diligently to perform well in ANAT 100 - which I attempted twice in past semesters - but unfortunately I have failed to pass the courses because of the serious anxiety and panic attacks I experienced.

These panic attacks were triggered by aspects of the course. This particular anatomy course brought to my mind traumatic experiences prior to and during my study at Queen's, especially those related to the tragedy of my father's death. The explicit images of human cadavers in the Anatomy courses disrupted my concentration and ability to perform well. My academic results in ANAT 100 thus do not represent my academic ability or potential.

The triggers have directly impacted my ability to complete some parts of the course, and I completed other assignments poorly because of the psychological distress I experienced. I mentioned these experiences during the ongoing Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) sessions I have had with Dr. Alexandra Soliman, psychologist. She suggested that I appeal for an exemption for the Anatomy course; however, the Anatomy course is a core course of my degree plan, so an exemption from the course is not an option. Therefore, Dr. Soliman suggested that I appeal for an AG standing in Anatomy Course (Summer, 2017).

I have been working regularly on improving my mental health, and continue to take steps to deal with these post-traumatic extenuating circumstances with Dr. Soliman. I have enclosed supporting documentation from Dr. Soliman that outlines in detail the psychological challenges I have been experiencing.

Regarding to my future plan, I am planning to maintain my regular Cognitive Behaviour Therapy with Dr. Alexandra Soliman. As well, I am regularly taking SSRI medication. I am waiting on a referral to meet with a new psychiatrist. I believe these ongoing sessions with health care professionals will help improve my mental health. In addition, I have completed all other required courses and credits to apply for graduation, yet this particular Anatomy course is the only remaining credit I require. This missing credit has stopped me from moving forward both academically and professionally. It therefore is my sincere hope that you will grant an AG standing in ANAT 100 (Summer, 2017).

I appreciate your time and effort to read my appeal letters. Please contact me if there is any additional information that you need to clarify details regarding my extenuating circumstances.

Sincerely yours, Candy Kuo