Submit an Academic Petition or Appeal

Petition Letter: December 24, 2020


To Whom It May Concern:

I hope that you and your loved ones are doing well during these unprecedented times.
I would like to begin by expressing my sincerest gratitude for taking the time to read my appeal letter and consider my request. My earnest request is for the prorating of my final grades (Aegrotat Standing) for the Fall 2020 Term in the following two courses; POLS 243: States, Diversity & Conflict and POLS 261: International Politics. Upon review of the learning objectives/outcomes for each course, I believe that I have satisfied the criteria.

My ability to focus and perform at my best has been significantly impacted due to serious mental health challenges that I have been facing. I have been suffering daily with intrusive thoughts that have disrupted my ability to concentrate and has adversely affected my academic performance by prohibiting me from actively engaging in my studies. Although I recognize the transition to remote learning has been a challenge for us all, it has considerably impacted me. This has only exacerbated my stress and the issues that I am facing. I respectfully ask that I be excused from providing specific details as they are incredibly personal, and I do not feel comfortable sharing them. I have only confided with a health care professional through Student Wellness Services.

I engaged in counselling on an irregular basis during First Year (2019-2020) and throughout the summer, as well as connected with an Occupational Therapist during that time. Admittedly, I stubbornly stopped for a few months which was a huge mistake that I take full responsibility for. On Thursday, December 10th, 2020 I reached out to Student Wellness Services and made an urgent appointment with a counsellor as I finally recognized that I needed professional help as my situation was rapidly deteriorating. The Occupational Therapist that I was previously meeting with is on leave. Therefore, I was connected with another counsellor who has been incredible. He has been very understanding and helpful. I am thankful to be connecting with him as I am hopeful that I will soon be on the road to recovery.

My plan for achieving academic success includes making personal adjustments in order to succeed in my studies. I will accomplish this by exercising more accountability and consistency in seeking counselling on a regular basis. Through counselling, I will find the help that I need in order to recover and restore my mental health. I will be taught how to reframe my thoughts and challenge my negative internal dialogue. In terms of my recovery, I will dedicate myself to seeking help and being proactive. I am optimistic that I will soon experience a renewal of my mental health.

Once again, I would like to sincerely thank you for taking the time to read my appeal letter. Your time is appreciated and valued. If you have any questions, comments, or concerns, please feel free to contact me by email at 18nvw1@queensu.ca or by phone at 647-270-1340. Furthermore, please do not hesitate to reach out to my father, Darren Widdis, who may also provide some insight in relation to my current condition. He can be reached at 416-576-3639. I hope that you will seriously consider my earnest request for accommodation during this time and I look forward to hearing back from you.

Wishing you a safe, healthy, and prosperous Holiday Season.


Kind regards,

Natally Widdis