Submit an Academic Petition or Appeal

Petition Letter: Dear Associate Dean Stephenson,

I am petitioning to drop CISC 102 (Winter, 2024). I understand that the deadline for dropping courses has passed, but I believe that my circumstances warrant an exception.

In January 2024, I faced an unforeseen personal event that significantly impacted my academic performance, particularly in CISC 102. Right before the beginning of the second semester, I was unfortunately incapacitated and sexually assaulted by someone I trusted. The trauma resulted in severe anxiety, depression, and a subsequent decline in my mental health throughout the semester. It left me emotionally distraught and struggling to cope with the aftermath. I resorted to various unhealthy coping mechanisms, and emotionally retreated into myself. Furthermore, in February 2024, I witnessed a close friend being taken to the hospital several times throughout the month for suicide attempts. This further worsened my mental health, and triggered my own self harm.

The weight of these circumstances combined made it incredibly challenging to engage with my coursework in CISC 102, as the grading scheme primarily consists of tests that require extensive studying. Due to my struggles, I found it challenging to devote sufficient time and energy towards preparing for these assessments. I struggled to balance my academic responsibilities with my emotional wellbeing. This differs from my other courses, as their grading schemes were more balanced. Though there were also tests in some courses, I was able to work together with my peers and use their support on assignments in order to sufficiently maintain my grades. The lack of peer support in CISC 102’s coursework caused its grade to be uniquely affected.

I suffered through my experiences in silence throughout March 2024. I hesitated until mid-April to seek assistance for my assault out of fear of not being believed, particularly as a male survivor, hence why I did not drop this course earlier. As the deadline for course dropping approached, I was preoccupied with beginning to seek out mental health resources to address my ongoing struggles. Dropping this course was not something I had considered until after I came forward and realized how far behind I had fallen.

It is not viable for me to finish CISC 102, as tests have already been graded and returned making it impossible for me to catch up. Additionally, I have deferred all my exams to mid-May and I am currently occupied with studying for them.

In terms of addressing these extenuating circumstances, I have begun to take steps towards healing and recovery. I have initiated counselling sessions with a licensed therapist from Student Wellness Services, and actively began to engage in discussions with my peers about what transpired. Additionally, I have several meetings with a counsellor in my hometown throughout the summer to work through and process my experience. This will ensure a successful return to my studies.

I intend to retake CISC 102 during the Summer 2024 term, where I can benefit from completing the coursework with constant access to resources and a supportive environment. It is crucial for me to drop CISC 102, as major selection is coming up at the end of May and maintaining a certain GPA is essential for qualification into my desired program. I am committed to overcoming this setback and remain dedicated to my academic pursuits, as I am really passionate about my studies in Computing.

Thank you for considering my petition. I appreciate your understanding and support in this matter.

Sincerely,
Hashim Iftikhar