Submit an Academic Petition or Appeal

Petition Letter: To whom it may concern,
I, Emily Obal, would like to place an appeal to add the course BIOL 102 Section 3 after the add deadline for the fall semester 2014. I have sought and been given the support of the course instructor Dr. W. Snedden and the Undergraduate Chair for the department Dr. W. Nelson.

The reason I did not add this course sooner was that it conflicted with courses that were mandatory for my completion of the BA-G-LING. My intention this academic year was to finish that degree and return to Queen¿¿s next academic year and begin pursuit of a BSc. In the biology major. After meeting with Cindy Butts I learned that I am restricted from doing that. The best option for me is to forfeit the completion of my BA and continue from where I am straight into biology.

Given that I had the intent to graduate this year and could not take the open BIOL 102 course, it follows that until I was given more information regarding my options I could not justify adding that course. Biology is not open to students wishing to do a second degree, therefore I must change my track as soon as possible in order to be successful.

The decision to switch into science came after a year of working and studying high school math and science which I had missed out on previously. I found that I excel in these subjects beyond what I considered possible for myself academically. I can provide references from those who taught me that I am capable of being successful in these courses if I am afforded the opportunity.

If I am unable to begin studying biology this year then I am not using my time effectively any more. The suggestion was offered to me that I should take these courses in the summer in order to expedite my entry into the biology department of Queen¿¿s. This is not a good option for me as I work in Algonquin Park from early May well into August with unreliable internet access depending on what exactly I am doing.

In conclusion, I am appealing to add BIOL 102 sec. 3 after the deadline in order to pursue my goals in education at Queen¿¿s. Additionally, there are seats available in the classes and tutorial for which I am applying. Their course numbers are 6446 and 6572 respectively. I have the approval of the instructor Dr. Snedden and I have contacted department head Dr. Moyes. He is aware of what I am trying to do.
Thank you for your consideration,
Emily Obal