Submit an Academic Petition or Appeal

Petition Letter: Vinessa McPherson
79 Essex Point Drive
Cambridge, Ontario N1T 1W5

Monday, August 23, 2021

Associate Dean (Academic)
Queen??s University
94 University Avenue
Kingston, ON K7L 3N6

Re: Credit Standing Request for DEVS 220 and HIST260
Student Name: Vinessa McPherson
Student ID: 20197210

I am requesting to receive Credit Standing (CR) in the following courses:

Course Name: DEVS 220 ?? Introduction to Indigenous Studies, Summer 2021
Instructor: Dr. Ian Fanning

Course Name: HIST260 ?? Canada from the Conquest to the Present, Summer 2021
Instructor: Shannon Brown

I was recently diagnosed with Generalized Anxiety Disorder and panic attacks which have significantly impacted my overall performance. My course load was a contributing factor, as HIST260 is a 6-credit course which increased my full-time workload from 60% to 80%. Unfortunately, I was not able to drop any courses without academic or financial penalty by the time I received treatment on June 29. I receive OSAP to support my studies and any changes in my workload could affect my funding and cause undue financial hardship.

I completed LAW 202 Aboriginal Law with a satisfactory grade because the course assessments were significantly different from DEVS 220 and HIST 260. Over 60% of the weight were quizzes and oral presentations, as opposed to writing and heavy research-based assignments. As noted in the enclosed Mental Health Verification Form from my doctor, Difficulty Concentrating and Writing Assignments are Serious to Severe Limitations that impacted my academic functioning.

I am currently receiving medical treatment which will support my progress towards graduation in December 2021. I have enrolled in a 60% course load for Fall 2021 which will complete the degree requirements for the Global Development Studies program.

Thank you for attention to my request. I appreciate your discretion concerning this matter. Please reach out to me if you have any questions or need additional information.

Sincerely,
Vinessa McPherson