Submit an Academic Petition or Appeal

Petition Letter: 09/14/2020
Dr. Jenn Stephenson
Associate Dean (Academic)
Dunning Hall - Queen¿¿s University
94 University Ave
Kingston, ON K7L 3N9

Dear Dr. Jenn Stephenson:

I am appealing to return to Queen¿¿s as my requirement to withdraw for three years has lapsed. It has always been my intention to return to university in order to complete my degree. Please allow me to explain the experience I have gained during my time away, why I¿¿m motivated to return, and my plan for achieving academic success.

During my time away from Queen¿¿s University I attended Algonquin College for a compressed two-year Diploma in Illustration and Concept Art. This program focused heavily on digital art. I learned how to use software such as Photoshop, Maya, Premiere Pro, and Illustrator. I excelled in this program and while honing my artistic talents I simultaneously learned many valuable skills such as accountability, organization, time management, team leadership, and attention to detail.

Immediately after graduation I was hired to work as an Art Educator within the company 4Cats. Shortly thereafter, I was promoted to Studio Director. The following year the company proposed opening a second location in the Kingston area and I was given the opportunity to oversee the operations at both studios. 4Cats is a private art school for children with studio locations across Canada. It follows Montessori teaching methods and strives to captivate creativity through projects inspired by famous artists while simultaneously incorporating art history into the curriculum. Aside from teaching art theories and techniques through projects of various mediums, my role is to oversee that the daily operations of each studio are running smoothly. Furthermore, upon reopening during the Covid-19 pandemic I was able to practice and implement new safety procedure and protocols as well as lead the renovations that needed to take place in order to meet Ontario¿¿s Health and Safety Guidelines. During my time at 4Cats I have gained valuable management, communication, and administrative skills, as well as a proven ability to work under pressure and adapt to a changing environment.

Unfortunately, as the pandemic continues, I have now been temporarily laid-off for the second time. While I have been actively looking for more stable employment during the past few weeks, it has always been my intention to complete my degree and I believe that this is a great opportunity to invest in my future. I am very motivated to return to studies as soon as possible. I hope to further my education, experience, and make valuable connections in order to manifest success.

While I am still researching which specific degree plan to follow it is my hope to return to Queen¿¿s University for the Fall semester of 2020 to pursue Art History and/or Philosophy. In order to achieve academic success, I plan to enroll in the Fall semester as a part-time student with the intention of creating a smooth transition towards an increased course load and if possible, full-time status beginning the following semester.

I understand that courses have already begun and hope that the decision to allow me to return to my studies will be made promptly. I look forward to hearing from you.

Sincerely,

Kaylie Rose Gill