Submit an Academic Petition or Appeal

Petition Letter: March 25, 2019

Dr. Jenn Stephenson
Associate Dean (Studies)
Queen¿¿s University
Kingston, Ontario

Dear Dr. Stephenson,

My name is Katherine Maine and I am in my third year of a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology. I writing to formally request to drop 2 courses, BCHM 270 and KNPE 429 from the winter semester.

I have been a professional cyclist riding for Rally UHC Cycling based in Minnesota for the past three years. In addition, I am a part of Cycling Canada¿¿s National Team pool and competed at the 2018 World Championship in Innsbruck, Austria. Although I have been successful balancing the demands of professional cycling and academics, I am currently struggling to complete this semester¿¿s classes. On March 7th, one of my teammates, Kelly Caitlin took her own life. Cycling teams are like family and, the death of Kelly was like losing a sister and a great friend. Our team was together when we were told, having arrived in California to race in a 5-day stage race starting on March 12th. At this point, I could no longer concentrate on my studies or complete assignments as I was grieving the loss of such an incredible person. We returned to Minnesota this weekend to attend her funeral.

Upon return to Queen¿¿s, I have reached out for support from the Student Wellness Services. My plan is to continue my studies in the fall on a full-time basis. As my current transcript indicates, I am on the Dean¿¿s list and fully intend on finishing my degree and pursuing a graduate degree.

I trust that you understand that the suicide of one of my teammates and mentors has had a profound impact on my ability to focus and complete my workload this semester. Should you require further information, please do not hesitate to contact me.


Kind Regards,

Katherine Maine
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