Submit an Academic Petition or Appeal

Petition Letter: Dear Associate Dean,

I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to formally request a late drop for my courses for winter term (CISC 102, 101, MATH 124 and MUSC 104). Although I understand that the deadline to drop the courses has passed, I believe that there were extenuating circumstances that significantly impacted my ability to learn and complete assignments.

On November 30, 2022, I was diagnosed with ADHD. While I have experienced symptoms for as long as I can remember, it was only during the last academic year that my symptoms started to significantly affect my academic performance. Alongside my ADHD, a prolonged period of social isolation and the absence of a support network led to my failure in courses during the first semester.

During the second half of the year, I approached the situation with a fresh mindset. I explored different medications, which introduced additional stress due to side effects and my body adapting to them. Additionally, I sought the help of a therapist specializing in my condition, which proved beneficial in improving my ability to handle various situations. Despite these efforts, during the time I started being able to manage my symptoms, I realized that catching up with my current and an incomplete course from the previous semester's studies was unrealistic at that time as I have already missed out on a lot of course work. As a result, I was unable to manage my courses and make significant progress. I initially believed that I could find a way to catch up on my academic backlog, so I made the decision not to drop my courses on March 1. However, I soon realized that I was mistaken.

Furthermore, I faced external emotional stress stemming from certain interpersonal relationships throughout the academic year. These challenges compounded the difficulties I already faced due to my recent diagnosis. Despite my best efforts to balance these issues with my academic responsibilities, they had a significant impact on my ability to focus and perform well in my courses.

In addition, on April 15 of last semester, my father, a humanitarian worker, was working in Khartoum when the Sudanese Civil War began. I had to put my family's needs ahead of my academic obligations because of the seriousness of the situation and my concern for my father's safety. As a result, I was unable to adequately study for and finish the exams for the courses in which I was enrolled. My ability to concentrate on my studies was severely hampered by the ongoing conflict's emotional turmoil and unpredictability.
To support my request, I have attached documents from my therapist and physician regarding my condition. If any additional documents are required, I am more than willing to provide them.

In light of these circumstances, I kindly request that you consider granting a late course drop for all the courses I was enrolled in during the previous academic year. This action would provide me with an opportunity to start afresh and ensure that my academic record accurately reflects my capabilities. It would also alleviate some of the academic pressure and enable me to concentrate on my studies in the upcoming academic year.

I am now in a much better position to perform well academically. With the support of my therapist, I have developed personalized strategies that allow me to focus, concentrate, and stay organized. These coping mechanisms have proven to be substantial in enhancing my academic abilities. I am confident that with a fresh start and the continued implementation of these strategies, I can excel in my courses and demonstrate my true capabilities.
Thank you for your attention and understanding.

Sincerely,
Arpit Burgess