Submit an Academic Petition or Appeal

Petition Letter: Dear Associate Dean (Academic),

I am petitioning to late drop BIOL 350 and BIOL 300 from Fall 2022.

During my time at Queen??s, I have experienced numerous circumstances that have impacted my physical and mental health. I experienced a difficult transition from high school to university and connected with supports on campus to help with managing my symptoms and my academics. However, part way through Fall of 2022, my symptoms worsened significantly. I was having difficulty attending classes, submitting assignments and preparing for and writing quizzes and tests. I found it particularly challenging to complete in person participation, which is why BIOL 350 and BIOL 300 were impacted most in the Fall 2022 term. Near the drop deadline, I dropped BIOL 339 because I recognized that the course was being impacted by my circumstance. I felt the remaining courses would be manageable to complete and I had significant family pressure to stay in my remaining classes. Unfortunately, as the term continued my symptoms became progressively worse and continued into the Winter 2023 term. When my symptoms worsened, I found it extremely difficult to leave my house and meet my basic needs (for example: eating, sleeping, etc.).

For the Winter 2023 term, initially I had planned to talk to Student Wellness more and to figure out a study plan with Student Academic Success Services for my classes from this term and that fell through due to the continued decline of my health and worsening of my circumstances. Now that things that worsened I have decided that it would be better for my health to take a year off from academics. I am currently in the process of organizing this now by working with contacts in the Faculty of Arts and Science as well as the Faculty of Education. When I return to academics in future, I will renew my registration with Accessibility Services (as I am already registered now). I will connect with Student Wellness to support my health and wellness. Also, I plan to enroll in a reduced course load during the year and take courses over the summer.