Submit an Academic Petition or Appeal

Petition Letter: Hello,
I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to formally request that a course I failed be removed from my transcript due to significant extenuating circumstances that deeply impacted my academic performance during the Fall 2023 semester. Throughout my entire undergraduate studies, I have faced numerous challenges, including the deaths of loved ones, severe anxiety, and depression. These struggles have persisted over multiple semesters, with the 2023-24 year (specifically Fall) being the hardest to deal with.

During this period, I experienced intense mental health problems, including heightened anxiety and worsening depression, despite efforts to manage it through medication adjustments. Because of these issues, I was granted a 7-day extension for all assignments by QSAS, which helped me immensely, and I am truly grateful.

However, in my PHIL 330 course, taught by Professor Derek Beamer, I faced an unfortunate situation that severely impacted my final grade. I submitted one assignment late, and despite explaining my accommodations and circumstances to the professor, he initially gave me a zero. After further communication from my QSAS advisor, Christina, who explained the situation in more detail, Professor Beamer seemed open to adjusting the grade and indicated he would remove some of the late penalties. However, when I followed up, he reversed this decision and maintained the zero, which ultimately led to me failing the course.

Receiving a zero on that assignment, rather than even a low passing grade, made the difference between passing and failing the course. This has had an affect on my GPA, which is now around 2.0, and I fear it may hinder my chances of graduating and pursuing future academic opportunities.

I want to emphasize that these few failed courses do not reflect my true capabilities as a student. I have faced and overcome many challenges throughout my academic journey, and in courses where I have been able to fully apply myself, I have consistently performed well.

I am willing to provide any necessary documentation to support this appeal, including a doctor’s note. However, I must note that due to delays in Ontario’s public healthcare system, I have recently switched psychiatrists, and it may take some time to obtain the required documentation.

I kindly ask for your understanding and consideration in this matter, as the removal of this failed course would make a significant difference in my academic standing and future prospects.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I am more than willing to discuss this further or provide any additional information you may need.

Sincerely,
Jake Kleiner