Submit an Academic Petition or Appeal

Petition Letter: My name is Olivia Mcgahern (student number #20399540). I just finished my first year at Queen's, and I am writing to formally appeal for the opportunity to return to Queen's University this fall. This past academic year, I experienced extreme circumstances beyond my control that significantly impacted my academic performance. However, given the chance, I am sure that I can demonstrate my true academic abilities and successfully continue my studies.

In October, I experienced a major personal crisis that severely affected my ability to focus on my studies. As mentioned by my therapist in the attached document, I had a significant falling out with my father, which resulted in the complete breakdown of our relationship. This sudden and traumatic change left me without the parental support that had always been a crucial part of my life. The emotional distress from this estrangement was overwhelming, and I found myself struggling to cope with my intense feelings of loss and abandonment.

The impact of this event was exacerbated by my pre-existing struggle with anxiety, a condition I have been trying to manage for several years with the help of two different therapists. I have attached the invoices from my previous time in therapy. The heightened anxiety I experienced during this time was debilitating. I was constantly on edge, unable to concentrate, and overwhelmed by even the simplest of tasks. This state of heightened anxiety was so severe that I sought medical attention from the on-campus doctor due to an elevated heart rate. The doctor confirmed that my symptoms were anxiety-related, further highlighting the significant impact my father's estrangement had on my physical and mental health. At the time, being in a new and unfamiliar place in the state I was in, I was unable to access any on-campus mental health supports or resources. I felt unsupported and isolated, unable to find the same level of support and comfort I had previously relied upon.

However, I have since been rebuilding my support system, and despite these challenges, I am committed to taking control of my mental health and academic future. I am currently seeing a therapist for one-on-one sessions to address my anxiety and take charge of my emotional well-being. Additionally, I am in group therapy sessions with my father in an effort to reconcile our relationship and heal from the past. These therapeutic interventions have already made a significant difference in my mental health, allowing me to regain a sense of stability and focus.
Further demonstrating my commitment to my education, I have enrolled in two online courses with the goal of improving my GPA. These courses have provided me with a structured and supportive learning environment, and I am already performing significantly better. This improvement is a clear indication of my academic capabilities when I have the necessary support and stability.

It is crucial for my mental and emotional well-being to stay with my cohort and return to Queen's University this fall. As my therapist states in her letter, should I be forced to take a year off and be separated from my academic community, my mental health would suffer greatly, and it would be extremely detrimental to my well-being. I am committed to continuing my therapy remotely in Kingston this fall and to taking all necessary steps to ensure that I remain on track academically and personally.

I am confident that this past year did not reflect my true academic potential. I know that with the support I am now receiving and my renewed focus on my studies, I can succeed at Queen's University. I respectfully request the opportunity to return this fall and to demonstrate my commitment to my education. Thank you for considering my appeal. I am eager to prove my dedication and ability to succeed academically at Queen's University. Attached, you will find a support letter from my current therapist as well as documentation of my previous therapy sessions.

Sincerely,
Olivia McGahern