Submit an Academic Petition or Appeal

Petition Letter: Dear Associate Dean,

I am writing this appeal to enrol in Indigenous Perspectives on the Environment and Health (Geography 309) after the official deadline to add a course, with the support of the course instructor Dr. Heather Castleden.

Heather and I have developed a relationship over the past year through my volunteer work and research assistantship at the Health, Environments and Communities Lab. This summer I am working under her supervision as an Undergraduate Summer Research Fellow on her project; Indigenous Women in Renewable Energy. On several occasions I discussed enrolling in GPHY 309 with Heather, as the content is highly relevant to my summer research work, as well as my major in Global Development and Minor in Indigenous studies.

Due to a period of recovery from a traumatic incident and poor mental health, I was unsure of my ability to successfully balance GPHY 309 with my work, and chose not to enrol in the course. However, after further conversation with Heather and my doctor I am confident in my ability to participate in GPHY 309, and believe it will be highly beneficial to my personal and academic growth. Heather is aware of my personal circumstances and has agreed to work with me to accommodate my needs in meeting various deadlines. Moreover, I am following a treatment plan with the support of my doctor, therapist and counsellor. With these supports I feel confident in my ability to take on this course and balance it with maintaining my health and wellbeing.

Thank you so much for taking the time to consider my appeal. Please let me know if it is necessary for me to provide further explanation of my circumstances.

Kind Regards,

Melody