Submit an Academic Petition or Appeal

Petition Letter: To Dr. Jenn Stephenson,
Associate Dean (Academic),

I am petitioning to drop GPHY 310 and BIOL 335 (Fall, 2023).

Going into the fall 2023 term I enrolled in the courses required to complete my degree. Due in significant part to my living environment, I struggled with sleep and severe anxiety. Up until recently I still had hope that I would be able to successfully complete all my courses. However, to begin resolving my core issues, it became apparent that I needed to physically remove myself from my situation and seek professional help. Unfortunately, all my courses are attendance and lab-based courses that require full in-person participation. I have returned to my family’s house, so class and lab attendance has become impossible for me. I initially attempted to reduce the number of courses that I was enrolled in and return to Kingston for short periods, thinking this would be manageable. However, it soon became apparent that this was not helpful. I addition to returning home, I have made significant positive lifestyle changes.

Based on discussions with Academic Advising, I have changed my degree plan from a specialized honours 4-year degree to a 3-year degree. Within my new degree plan, I have satisfied all my core course requirements. I still need 4 elective courses. I am able to complete these requirements remotely, and at a slower pace. I am also hoping to take two courses from my hometown university. I have reached out to this university to determine which courses are available. Once I determine this, I plan on asking for a Letter of Permission to have these courses counted towards my Queen’s degree. I plan on continuing to use academic advising as a resource to assist me with difficult decisions. Similarly, I am continuing to meet with my counsellor from Student Wellness Services. In addition to this, I am beginning to meet with a recommended counsellor from AMHS-KFLA that will support me in addressing my core issues. I believe that with my plan outlined above I will be successful. I fully intend to continue living with healthier lifestyle choices and remain in counselling.

Thank you for your consideration.

Hillary Drenth
20183144