Submit an Academic Petition or Appeal

Petition Letter: Dear Dr. Jenn Stephenson,

I am petitioning to drop PHGY 215 (Summer, 2021) and BIOL 321 (Summer, 2021) from my transcript.

During my second year, I was sexually assaulted by someone I had considered my friend. When I tried to tell two of our other friends about it, they did not believe me and went on to say horrible things to me and make me feel as though I was in the wrong. So, I tried my best to move on from it and not think about it as I did not wish to cause more issues. However, in June 2021, one of those friends that did not believe me was sexually assaulted by the same guy. She came to me, told me the details of what had happened (nearly identical to me), and apologized. This caused me to relive what had happened, to know that I was not a horrible person and that it was not my fault and commenced my struggles with multiple panic attacks a day. I had never dealt with anything so severe and debilitating, and as such, I completely shut down as I was incredibly overwhelmed by anxiety and stress. As my state was increasing in severity, I reached out to Student Wellness and was put into contact with Susannah Ireland, who helped me immensely over the next several months. Unfortunately, this event took place after the drop date and I did not regain the ability to focus and prioritize my classes by the time the summer term was over, resulting in failing grades in both courses. Nonetheless, I have worked incredibly hard, both with Susannah Ireland and individually, to ensure I do not fail another course ?? which is evident by the rest of my transcript.

To aid in me dealing with my trauma, I sought out help from Susannah Ireland and she provided me with varying resources and techniques to aid in future panic attacks/moments of distress. Additionally, when I would be feeling overwhelmed, I reached out to her to set up meetings, discuss how I was feeling, and set up academic considerations if we both felt they were necessary to my success. Fortunately, and I am happy to say, I have not sought out academic considerations during my fourth year as I have not felt the need for them. I additionally retook BIOL 321 as I was interested in taking the course and received a passing grade. The plan I curated involved being gentle with myself, seeking help when I felt it would be beneficial (not just when it was necessary), making scheduled meetings with a counsellor, and curating a technique ?? alongside Susannah Ireland ?? to help me when I begin feeling overwhelmed or the beginnings of a panic attack coming on.

Additionally, I realize some time has passed since the failing of these courses and now, but I simply could not bring myself to think about the situation more than necessary for my own well-being and was told I could appeal these courses anytime during my academic career. Since I wish to apply to graduate programs in the future and do not want these marks on my official transcript as they are not reflective of my work ethic and determination in becoming a successful graduate student.

Thank you very much for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

Hannah Lavallee