Submit an Academic Petition or Appeal

Petition Letter: Dear Associate Deans (Studies),

I am writing this letter to have PHIL 361 + PHIL 347 expunged from my transcript as due to extenuating circumstances, the outcome of these courses have brought down my overall GPA as my circumstances have impeded upon my capabilities.While planning for my fourth year courses yesterday, I notified Katherine that I was unsuccessful in PHIL 361 + PHIL 347 last year in my fall term, primarily due to severe health issues I experienced last fall and which were diagnosed early into the Winter term, at which point I received treatment and experienced improved health. For your information, I am also in the process of speaking with the Undergraduate Chair, in order to retake PHIL 361 + PHIL 347, alongside my fourth year courses starting this fall.

I will explain my situation now.

In the summer of 2017 before my 3rd year, after experiencing severe headaches, black-outs and the occurrence of a brain bleed, I was diagnosed with a pituitary adenoma, leading to multiple Doctor appointments, MRI's, blood tests and ongoing check-ups. I made the decision to start school in September in spite of this. My adenoma is a manageable condition, under intermittent medical observation. During the fall term, I also became very ill due to a separate condition that was ultimately diagnosed during the beginning of the winter term in January 2018, at which point I received significant medical treatment from Student Wellness Services and CDK.

I did receive Academic Accommodations from Student Wellness Services as well as supporting notes to offer my professors in the winter term, which I attach for completeness. The result of my ill health in the fall term, however, was that I did not pass PHIL 361 + PHIL 347. As noted above, I did receive medical help in the winter term, and my situation improved somewhat. My winter term professors were made aware of my issues and they were able to assist me, for which I am grateful. I was successful in completing all of my winter term courses. Unfortunately, my illness had not yet been diagnosed and therefore didn't receive the assistance I needed in the fall term. My family does not live in Canada at this time and I was largely on my own during this time.

I did receive academic counseling in January and February 2018, but at no time was I made aware that I could appeal to have PHIL 361 + PHIL 347 removed from my transcript. I only became aware of that possibility during my counseling session with Katherine this week. She felt I had strong case to appeal to the department to have these courses removed.

I am currently in reasonably good health and ready to begin this upcoming year, which will include re-taking PHIL 361 + PHIL 347. My plan is to take one additional semester in 2019 to complete my four-year Queens degree.

I would be most grateful for your consideration in having PHIL 361 + PHIL 347 removed from my transcript. If you require any more information from me, I would be more than happy to provide it and/or arrange a call with you to discuss.

Thank you and Kind Regards,

Syrena Powell