Submit an Academic Petition or Appeal

Petition Letter: I am writing to formally request an exception to the university's policy regarding course additions after the deadline. Specifically, I am petitioning to add RELS 131 and WRIT 125 for the Summer 2024 term, despite the deadline having passed. I understand the importance of adhering to academic policies and deadlines; however, I am seeking this exception due to extenuating circumstances related to short-term family challenges that adversely affected my mental well-being and decision-making process during the relevant period.
 
During the week of May 5-11 was the death anniversary of my late grandfather. This week was filled with preparations for the anniversary ritual on Thursday (May 9) which is very important in my culture. This whole situation was also detrimentally affected by some mental health issues I have been facing for some time now, leaving me unable to make timely decisions regarding my academic schedule. Specifically, I missed the deadline to add the courses because I was overwhelmed by my condition and unable to manage the administrative requirements effectively. At that time, my priority was to get through the day and stabilize my mental health, which regrettably led to a delay in addressing my academic responsibilities. 
 
The significance of adding these courses to my schedule cannot be overstated. I believe that being able to take these courses is crucial to my future academic prospects. Both courses are needed to fulfill requirements for a conditional offer from another academic institute. Given the circumstances, I believe that allowing me to add these courses post-deadline would not hinder my ability to succeed in these courses. I have spoken with course instructors and made ample preparations to catch up on missed course content and assessments.
 
To address my mental health challenges, I have taken several steps to ensure that my condition is managed effectively moving forward. I am utilizing the university’s counselling services and have also scheduled regular therapy sessions via my primary care physician for throughout the summer. Additionally, I have developed a support system that includes close communication with family, friends, and academic advisors to ensure I am able to go succeed in my academic responsibilities.
 
I am committed to my academic success and despite the setbacks caused by the situation and my mental health challenges, I will work diligently to catch up on my coursework and maintain my academic standing. I am confident that with continued support, I can successfully complete the courses and continue my academic journey.
 
I respectfully request that the committee consider my petition favourably, given the extenuating circumstances and the documented impact on my academic performance. I am more than willing to provide any additional information or documentation that may assist in the review of my request.
 
Thank you for taking the time to consider my petition.