Submit an Academic Petition or Appeal

Petition Letter: Dear Associate Dean,

Request:
I am appealing to drop my HLTH200 course.

Explanation of Extenuating Circumstances:

I am appealing to drop HLTH200 because I believe it is in my best interest to protect and work on my mental health at this point in time. COVID19 presented a variety of barriers in my learning process, and after spending some time evaluating the pros and cons of staying in the course, I discovered that by doing so I would be putting my health at risk. I am also concerned that by forcing myself to complete the course, I will not be able to put my best effort forward and my GPA will suffer due to circumstances that are out of my control. I am writing this letter of appeal because it took myself, my therapist and my parents a little longer to determine what the best way to move forward was for both my personal and academic life. There was a lot of consideration in terms of dropping the semester or lightening the load but I would really appreciate the opportunity to continue as a student at Queen¿¿s just with a minor adjustment to my load. Extensions and academic consideration have proven to be no help in my process of trying to complete the course so I think the best thing to do is reduce my course load, and focus on my remaining classes while working on my health. I continue to struggle with the barriers my mental health poses in both my academic and personal life, and I recognize that I need to take action so dropping this course is one of the many steps I am taking to ensure better success and health for myself.

I have taken the initiative to get the help I need after consultation with numerous academic advisors such as Spring as well as registered psychologist Dr. Farah Nanji. I am receiving mental health treatment and I agree with the recommendation that I should take a lighter course load in order to find a healthier work routine and balance in my life. I have attempted to complete the course despite my own difficulties but doing so is becoming more of a challenge everyday. As my mental health worsens, I have worked harder to adopt measures that can offer a safe transition to living a healthier life. Mental health treatment in itself is a stressful and significantly heavy burden to take on, which is unfortunate because it is the only option I can take in attempting to treat my mental health concerns. This course is affecting my ability to function in my everyday life. I see no point in overwhelming myself and putting myself at risk when I should be focusing on taking action to make positive changes in my life.

Thank you so much for taking the time to consider my circumstances and I am more than happy to answer any questions or concerns. I have also attached a letter of support from my therapist Dr. Farah Nanji, and she is willing to address any additional queries the administration may have in regard to my appeal.

Best,
Ocean Andersen