Submit an Academic Petition or Appeal

Petition Letter: To the Associate Dean of Studies,

I am appealing to the Faculty of Arts and Science for a Credit Standing Academic Adjustment, for the following courses: BIOL103 (Winter 2018), CHEM112 (Fall 2017/Winter 2018), MATH121 (Fall 2017/Winter 2018), and PHYS117 (Fall 2017/Winter 2018).

The Extenuating Circumstances beyond my control were the Stage 4 Cancer diagnosis (since then downgraded) of my boyfriend and the associated stress, insomnia and fear that followed. The stress of this diagnosis was further exacerbated by the fact that I have lost other loved ones (family members) to this disease in the recent past.

My boyfriend's cancer diagnosis, after months of appointments, came right before the Fall exam period. The shock surrounding his diagnosis left me unable to sleep or focus and the fear of losing him to cancer was overwhelming. I suffered from anxiety and experienced a sense of loss as he immediately moved out of Residence to go home for chemotherapy treatment.

My academic performance was in turn affected by my anxiety surrounding his illness, and my lack of sleep associated with this. I have always been incredibly focused on academics, maintaining an A average in high school, but found myself unable to concentrate on the task at hand despite all of my efforts. My worry and exhaustion were so impactful that I sought medical advice via counselling, and also went to see a doctor through student wellness services at LaSalle. Dr. Welihinda proceeded to prescribe me with sleep aids to help manage my day to day. Unfortunately, due to the associated side effects, I was unable to continue with this treatment plan and was sent to a Sleep Clinic for further assessment. I did my best to manage my anxiety through nutrition and exercise, including yoga, meditation, and breathing techniques, and although I passed all of my courses, I know that my grades are no where near reflective of my true academic abilities and passion for Biochemistry.

I chose to not drop these courses as it was recommended that I do my best to maintain my daily routine as I work to process and manage my anxiety level. Although my exam grades were well below expected, I had hoped that my course assignments, for which I received good grades, would be enough to undo the challenges I had faced in my exams.

My boyfriend is still in Ottawa and receiving Chemotherapy treatment. His treatments are going well and he is expected to return to Queens in the Fall.

Although I certainly look forward to Nick's return. I am confident that I have learned, and continue to learn, valuable coping mechanisms over the course of the last 5 months that will allow me to be successful in my future studies regardless of what challenges are thrown my way. In this process, I have also been made aware of additional resources such as The Learning Commons and Writing Centre, which I look forward to utilizing in the future. I will work to proactively discuss any future challenges I may have with my professors and/or TAs when applicable.

I appreciate and value your time and consideration of this request.

Danielle Mexner