Petition Letter
May 26th 2025
To the Associate Dean,
I am writing to respectfully appeal the recommendation that I take a gap year from my studies at Queen's University. I understand that this recommendation may be based on my academic performance, and I take full responsibility for not meeting the GPA requirements.
However, I am asking for an opportunity to continue my studies without interruption, as I believe that doing so is
essential for both my academic and personal development.
As an international student, my transition to university life has been especially difficult. I experienced deep loneliness, isolation and terrible homesickness during my first year, leading to me struggling to form connections. I have never felt that way before, and it impacted my studies negatively. These challenges took a toll on my mental health and, in turn, affected my academic performance.
Since then, I have taken active steps to improve my situation. I have begun attending counseling to help me manage my mental health and build stronger coping strategies. I have also secured a
stable and supportive living environment that will allow me to focus more effectively on my studies. I now feel more prepared, emotionally and practically, to handle the demands of university life.
Taking a gap year at this stage would interrupt the progress I've made and set me back just as I am beginning to find my footing. I am eager to return to Queen's, apply what I've learned, and work with
available academic and personal support systems to succeed. I am also willing to accept any conditions or academic support plans the university may offer. Please consider giving me the opportunity to continue my education without a break. I am fully committed to making positive changes and taking responsibility for my academic success moving forward.
Thank you very much for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Akshithaa Devaraj
To the Associate Dean,
I am writing to respectfully appeal the recommendation that I take a gap year from my studies at Queen's University. I understand that this recommendation may be based on my academic performance, and I take full responsibility for not meeting the GPA requirements.
However, I am asking for an opportunity to continue my studies without interruption, as I believe that doing so is
essential for both my academic and personal development.
As an international student, my transition to university life has been especially difficult. I experienced deep loneliness, isolation and terrible homesickness during my first year, leading to me struggling to form connections. I have never felt that way before, and it impacted my studies negatively. These challenges took a toll on my mental health and, in turn, affected my academic performance.
Since then, I have taken active steps to improve my situation. I have begun attending counseling to help me manage my mental health and build stronger coping strategies. I have also secured a
stable and supportive living environment that will allow me to focus more effectively on my studies. I now feel more prepared, emotionally and practically, to handle the demands of university life.
Taking a gap year at this stage would interrupt the progress I've made and set me back just as I am beginning to find my footing. I am eager to return to Queen's, apply what I've learned, and work with
available academic and personal support systems to succeed. I am also willing to accept any conditions or academic support plans the university may offer. Please consider giving me the opportunity to continue my education without a break. I am fully committed to making positive changes and taking responsibility for my academic success moving forward.
Thank you very much for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Akshithaa Devaraj