Submit an Academic Petition or Appeal

Petition Letter: Dear Board of Appeal,

I am writing to you with a request for your consideration regarding my academic performance this year. I have faced significant emotional challenges that have severely impacted my ability to perform academically. Despite making a substantial effort to overcome academic probation, my living conditions have prevented me from thriving in an academic setting.

At the beginning of this academic year, I was placed on academic probation. Determined to improve my situation, I dedicated myself to my studies and made significant strides in overcoming this challenge. This achievement was a huge step for me, and I felt hopeful about my academic future. However, my living conditions soon became a major obstacle that I could not have anticipated.

I had a roommate with untreated mental health illnesses who threatened violence against me on multiple occasions and even attempted suicide. This created an environment of constant fear and instability, making it extremely difficult for me to focus on my studies. The stress of this situation was overwhelming, and I found it impossible to maintain the level of academic performance I had achieved earlier.

Throughout the second semester, I sought help from Student Wellness to find coping strategies. I was in constant touch with my landlord, attempting to address the issues with my roommate. Despite these efforts, the stress from my living situation continued to take a toll on my mental and emotional well-being. My academic performance suffered as a result, and I was unable to complete my work effectively.

Despite these challenges, I managed to achieve good grades in my full-year courses, thanks to the stability I had during the first semester. However, by the second semester, I was completely burnt out by my living conditions, and my grades dwindled significantly. The stress and emotional turmoil I experienced made it difficult to concentrate on my studies, and I struggled to keep up with my coursework.

I understand the importance of maintaining a high academic standard, especially as my current grades play a crucial role in my ability to attend Queen's University. I am committed to becoming an exemplary student and have been working hard to make strides towards this goal. However, my performance this semester does not reflect my true potential, and I believe that the extenuating circumstances I faced should be taken into consideration.

I have documentation of all the times I needed academic consideration throughout the semester due to these circumstances. This documentation includes records of my visits to Student Wellness, communications with my landlord, and other relevant information that demonstrates the impact my living conditions had on my academic performance.

Given these circumstances, I kindly request your consideration in allowing me to arrogate two courses and receive credit for one. I believe that this accommodation will provide me with the opportunity to recover from the setbacks I faced this semester and continue to pursue my academic goals with renewed focus and determination.

The challenges I faced this year have taught me valuable lessons about resilience and the importance of seeking help when needed. Despite the difficulties, I am determined to overcome these obstacles and achieve my academic goals. I am committed to making the necessary changes to ensure that my living conditions do not continue to negatively impact my studies.

In addition to seeking help from Student Wellness, I have also taken steps to address my living situation. I am currently living in a new place where I can focus on my studies without the constant stress and fear that I experienced this semester. I believe that these changes will provide me with the stability and peace of mind I need to succeed academically.

I am confident that with your support and understanding, I can overcome the challenges I faced this year and continue to make progress toward my academic goals. I am eager to demonstrate my true potential and show that I am capable of achieving great things when given the opportunity.

Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
Diya