Submit an Academic Petition or Appeal

Petition Letter: Dear Associate Dean,

(a) The Request:
I am appealing to have the following courses dropped on my academic transcript due to extenuating circumstances: (1) PHYS 315 (Physical Processes in Astrophysics); and (2) PHYS 372 (Thermodynamics).

(b) Explanation of Extenuating Circumstances:
I have been experiencing a severe psychological challenge (depression, co-diagnosed with anxiety and social anxiety) since early September 2016. The depression worsened significantly during the Fall term and continued throughout the entire academic year of 2016-2017. It has affected my sleeping, eating, thought processes and mood patterns, and the prescribed medications have various side effects with which I am learning to cope. The depression has affected my ability to concentrate on my academic studies. Specifically, this condition has affected my ability to attend classes on a regular basis, my ability to concentrate on course readings, and the completion of course assignments/projects, tests and exams. It has lessened the amount of time per day that I am able to study. My ability to complete such a simple thing as this appeal letter in a timely manner has also been affected by the depression; this is why I am appealing the be granted an extension to the deadline. This seemingly negligent behaviour is uncharacteristic of me as I have been on the Dean's List for academic excellence my first two years.

I have taken the following steps, noted in chronological order, to deal with this situation: (1) Talked to friends and family for guidance and support; (2) Contacted Student Wellness Services (discussed my situation and possible solutions); (3) Consulted with Dr. Farnworth (Queen's Health Clinic); (4) Referred to and worked with Dr. Barb Campbell (Psychiatry); (5) Discussed my situation with Dr. Chen, the Undergraduate Chair for Physics regarding make-up courses; (6) Consulted my doctor in Mississauga for continued care and follow up during the summer months, and (7) Presently I am making use of Queen's Student Accessibility Services to assist with the current semester of courses.

(c) Action Plan:
My efforts directed at dealing with my present, continued psychological challenges include a slightly more manageable and lightened workload this academic year - I am taking four courses; and the necessary supports and academic accommodations have been put in place to ensure more consistent class attendance and course assignment completion.

In summation, for the academic year 2017-18, I am: (1) taking a lighter course load of four classes during both the Winter and Spring terms; (2) attending meetings with Dr. Campbell as needed; (3) maintaining bi-weekly contact with my family doctor; (4) and lastly, Academic Accommodations are in place, as of October 2017. These supports are currently benefiting me a productive and successful semester.

Having last year's marks removed from my transcript would stand me in better stead for continued academic success and help me realize my goals of continued academic pursuits in the future.
Your attention to this matter is greatly appreciated.

Thanking you in advance,

Sincerely,


Jeremy Favaro (10143483)