Manage Appeals
Petition Type: New
ID: 12732
Submitted: January 29, 2025 at 1:07:09 PM
First Name: Sarah
Last Name: Nitert
Pronoun: she/her
Preferred Name: Sarah
Student Number: 20277878
Email: nitertsarah@gmail.com
Degree Program: BAH
Plan: SOCY
Level of Study: 4
Petition Categories
Petition Categories: Add a course after the academic deadline
Appeal Category Detail: Course Overload
Code: Adding
Term: Winter
Year: 2025
Petition Category: Add a course after the academic deadline
Instructor's Name: n/a
Section/Class Number: n/a
Province / Region: Other
Exam Centre: Online Proctor
Petition Letter
Petition Letter: Dear To Whom It M ay Concern,
I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to formally appeal the decision regarding my request for a course overload in my final semester. I understand that the standard maximum course load is 16.0 units, but due to my unique circumstances, I am respectfully requesting approval to take 21.0 units. These additional 3.0-unit courses (three in total) is the only remaining requirement preventing me from completing my degree on time, and I am prepared to take all necessary steps to ensure my academic success.
This past year, I have worked diligently to stay on track for graduation. I previously met with an academic advisor who confirmed that, based on my academic plan, I was set to graduate in Spring 2025. However, unexpected medical challenges this semester forced me to request a compassionate course drop, which was granted by the Dean’s Office due to two serious physical injuries that required surgery. Despite these setbacks, I have remained committed to my coursework, maintained close communication with my professors and teaching assistants, and taken proactive steps to ensure my academic progress was not derailed.
I have already applied to post-graduate programs, including a Master of Teaching program, with the expectation that I would complete my undergraduate degree this term. A delay in graduation would have significant consequences, including postponing my career trajectory and requiring me to take an additional semester for just one course. This would not only be financially and logistically burdensome but would also create unnecessary complications for my graduate school applications.
I have structured my semester carefully to ensure that I can manage the increased workload. My current GPA in my Sociology major is 2.931, which exceeds the 1.9 requirement, and my cumulative GPA continues to improve. Based on my current course schedule and anticipated grades, I am confident that I will maintain strong academic standing. Additionally, I have sought guidance from Michelle Underhill in the Sociology Department, who has thoroughly reviewed my transcript and confirmed that my graduation plan is sound and achievable.
Given my demonstrated commitment to academic success, my ability to handle a full course load, and the substantial personal and professional impact of delaying my graduation, I respectfully ask for your reconsideration of this request. I am fully prepared to handle the additional workload and have selected an elective that aligns with my strengths and interests.
I sincerely appreciate your time and consideration and would be happy to meet with you to further discuss my academic plan. This decision is critical to my ability to graduate as planned and move forward with my post-graduate goals. Thank you for your time, and I look forward to your response.
I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to formally appeal the decision regarding my request for a course overload in my final semester. I understand that the standard maximum course load is 16.0 units, but due to my unique circumstances, I am respectfully requesting approval to take 21.0 units. These additional 3.0-unit courses (three in total) is the only remaining requirement preventing me from completing my degree on time, and I am prepared to take all necessary steps to ensure my academic success.
This past year, I have worked diligently to stay on track for graduation. I previously met with an academic advisor who confirmed that, based on my academic plan, I was set to graduate in Spring 2025. However, unexpected medical challenges this semester forced me to request a compassionate course drop, which was granted by the Dean’s Office due to two serious physical injuries that required surgery. Despite these setbacks, I have remained committed to my coursework, maintained close communication with my professors and teaching assistants, and taken proactive steps to ensure my academic progress was not derailed.
I have already applied to post-graduate programs, including a Master of Teaching program, with the expectation that I would complete my undergraduate degree this term. A delay in graduation would have significant consequences, including postponing my career trajectory and requiring me to take an additional semester for just one course. This would not only be financially and logistically burdensome but would also create unnecessary complications for my graduate school applications.
I have structured my semester carefully to ensure that I can manage the increased workload. My current GPA in my Sociology major is 2.931, which exceeds the 1.9 requirement, and my cumulative GPA continues to improve. Based on my current course schedule and anticipated grades, I am confident that I will maintain strong academic standing. Additionally, I have sought guidance from Michelle Underhill in the Sociology Department, who has thoroughly reviewed my transcript and confirmed that my graduation plan is sound and achievable.
Given my demonstrated commitment to academic success, my ability to handle a full course load, and the substantial personal and professional impact of delaying my graduation, I respectfully ask for your reconsideration of this request. I am fully prepared to handle the additional workload and have selected an elective that aligns with my strengths and interests.
I sincerely appreciate your time and consideration and would be happy to meet with you to further discuss my academic plan. This decision is critical to my ability to graduate as planned and move forward with my post-graduate goals. Thank you for your time, and I look forward to your response.
Academic Plan
Academic Plan: In preparation for my final semester, I have developed a structured and proactive academic plan that goes beyond standard strategies to ensure my success in managing a 21.0-unit course load. This plan incorporates academic advising, accessibility services, personal health strategies, and structured accountability measures to guarantee I meet my graduation requirements while maintaining my well-being.
1. Continued Engagement with QSAS (Queen’s Student Accessibility Services)
Given my past challenges with mental health and recent medical circumstances, I will remain actively engaged with my QSAS advisor to ensure I have the necessary accommodations and support systems in place. I will book bi-weekly check-ins to discuss workload management and any necessary academic accommodations that could assist me in maintaining performance across all courses. These meetings will allow me to track progress, address potential challenges in real time, and ensure I remain on track to complete my coursework successfully.
2. Academic Advising Checkpoints with Faculty and Departmental Advisors
I will continue meeting with Michelle Underhill from the Sociology Department throughout the term to ensure that my course selections align with my graduation plan and that I am making appropriate progress. Additionally, I will schedule a follow-up meeting with an academic advisor from my faculty early in the term to reassess my workload and discuss any concerns regarding my ability to manage the overload. These regular touchpoints will serve as a built-in accountability system to keep me aligned with my goals.
3. Targeted Use of On-Campus Learning Support Resources
Beyond attending office hours and seeking faculty support, I will take advantage of specialized academic resources that cater to my specific needs:
Queen’s Learning Strategies & Academic Coaching: I will enroll in personalized coaching sessions to refine time management strategies tailored to my increased workload, ensuring I can balance coursework effectively.
The Writing Centre: I will utilize the Writing Centre’s consultation services for major written assignments, particularly for my seminar courses, where I need to produce high-level academic work.
Library Research Consultations: I will book one-on-one research support sessions with the library team to improve efficiency in finding and integrating sources, helping me work smarter rather than harder.
4. Commitment to Therapy and Ongoing Medical Follow-Ups
Recognizing that my academic success is tied to my physical and mental well-being, I will continue attending weekly therapy sessions to manage my mental health effectively while balancing academic stress. I will also follow through with all scheduled medical follow-ups related to my injuries, ensuring that my recovery does not become a barrier to my academic performance.
5. Dedicated Study and Work Structure to Optimize Efficiency
Instead of relying on self-imposed discipline alone, I will implement structured, accountability-driven study methods that include:
Peer Study Groups: I will create or join a structured study group with classmates in my SOCY and WRIT courses to ensure consistent engagement and knowledge retention.
External Accountability Partnerships: I will set up weekly progress check-ins with a study mentor (such as a tutor, professor, or peer mentor) to review coursework, discuss deadlines, and refine my workload distribution.
Time-Blocking Strategy: I will integrate a weekly task scheduling system in collaboration with QSAS to ensure that my assignments, readings, and studying are systematically planned to prevent last-minute stress.
6. Emergency Contingency Plan in Case of Unexpected Challenges
To safeguard against any unforeseen difficulties, I will establish a contingency plan that includes:
Early Communication Protocol: If I anticipate any academic struggles, I will immediately contact my professors and advisors for support, rather than waiting until a crisis arises.
Alternative Course Adjustments: If necessary, I will explore Credit/No Credit options or alternative course substitutions with my academic advisors if a specific course presents unexpected difficulties.
Mental Health & Accessibility Intervention Plan: In collaboration with QSAS, I will have an actionable support plan in place to ensure that my mental health remains a priority while still completing my coursework.
Final Considerations
This academic plan is designed not just to accommodate a heavier course load, but to optimize my academic performance and well-being in a way that ensures I complete my degree successfully. I have carefully curated strategies that extend beyond generic study habits, integrating personalized academic support, mental health resources, faculty mentorship, structured accountability, and contingency planning.
I am confident that, with these measures in place, I will not only manage the increased workload but also perform strongly in my final semester. I sincerely appreciate your consideration of my request and would welcome the opportunity to discuss any additional steps I can take to reinforce my success.
Why This Works:
- Beyond the basics – This plan presents concrete, personalized, and proactive strategies instead of generic study habits.
- Shows initiative – Demonstrates that you have already planned and scheduled support systems to help you succeed.
- Addresses potential concerns in advance – Includes a backup plan in case of unexpected challenges, which strengthens your case.
- Balanced approach – Integrates mental health, academic support, and structured accountability, making it realistic and sustainable.
1. Continued Engagement with QSAS (Queen’s Student Accessibility Services)
Given my past challenges with mental health and recent medical circumstances, I will remain actively engaged with my QSAS advisor to ensure I have the necessary accommodations and support systems in place. I will book bi-weekly check-ins to discuss workload management and any necessary academic accommodations that could assist me in maintaining performance across all courses. These meetings will allow me to track progress, address potential challenges in real time, and ensure I remain on track to complete my coursework successfully.
2. Academic Advising Checkpoints with Faculty and Departmental Advisors
I will continue meeting with Michelle Underhill from the Sociology Department throughout the term to ensure that my course selections align with my graduation plan and that I am making appropriate progress. Additionally, I will schedule a follow-up meeting with an academic advisor from my faculty early in the term to reassess my workload and discuss any concerns regarding my ability to manage the overload. These regular touchpoints will serve as a built-in accountability system to keep me aligned with my goals.
3. Targeted Use of On-Campus Learning Support Resources
Beyond attending office hours and seeking faculty support, I will take advantage of specialized academic resources that cater to my specific needs:
Queen’s Learning Strategies & Academic Coaching: I will enroll in personalized coaching sessions to refine time management strategies tailored to my increased workload, ensuring I can balance coursework effectively.
The Writing Centre: I will utilize the Writing Centre’s consultation services for major written assignments, particularly for my seminar courses, where I need to produce high-level academic work.
Library Research Consultations: I will book one-on-one research support sessions with the library team to improve efficiency in finding and integrating sources, helping me work smarter rather than harder.
4. Commitment to Therapy and Ongoing Medical Follow-Ups
Recognizing that my academic success is tied to my physical and mental well-being, I will continue attending weekly therapy sessions to manage my mental health effectively while balancing academic stress. I will also follow through with all scheduled medical follow-ups related to my injuries, ensuring that my recovery does not become a barrier to my academic performance.
5. Dedicated Study and Work Structure to Optimize Efficiency
Instead of relying on self-imposed discipline alone, I will implement structured, accountability-driven study methods that include:
Peer Study Groups: I will create or join a structured study group with classmates in my SOCY and WRIT courses to ensure consistent engagement and knowledge retention.
External Accountability Partnerships: I will set up weekly progress check-ins with a study mentor (such as a tutor, professor, or peer mentor) to review coursework, discuss deadlines, and refine my workload distribution.
Time-Blocking Strategy: I will integrate a weekly task scheduling system in collaboration with QSAS to ensure that my assignments, readings, and studying are systematically planned to prevent last-minute stress.
6. Emergency Contingency Plan in Case of Unexpected Challenges
To safeguard against any unforeseen difficulties, I will establish a contingency plan that includes:
Early Communication Protocol: If I anticipate any academic struggles, I will immediately contact my professors and advisors for support, rather than waiting until a crisis arises.
Alternative Course Adjustments: If necessary, I will explore Credit/No Credit options or alternative course substitutions with my academic advisors if a specific course presents unexpected difficulties.
Mental Health & Accessibility Intervention Plan: In collaboration with QSAS, I will have an actionable support plan in place to ensure that my mental health remains a priority while still completing my coursework.
Final Considerations
This academic plan is designed not just to accommodate a heavier course load, but to optimize my academic performance and well-being in a way that ensures I complete my degree successfully. I have carefully curated strategies that extend beyond generic study habits, integrating personalized academic support, mental health resources, faculty mentorship, structured accountability, and contingency planning.
I am confident that, with these measures in place, I will not only manage the increased workload but also perform strongly in my final semester. I sincerely appreciate your consideration of my request and would welcome the opportunity to discuss any additional steps I can take to reinforce my success.
Why This Works:
- Beyond the basics – This plan presents concrete, personalized, and proactive strategies instead of generic study habits.
- Shows initiative – Demonstrates that you have already planned and scheduled support systems to help you succeed.
- Addresses potential concerns in advance – Includes a backup plan in case of unexpected challenges, which strengthens your case.
- Balanced approach – Integrates mental health, academic support, and structured accountability, making it realistic and sustainable.
Documentation
Professional Letter: Letter For Sarah Nitert.pdf
Document: My Academic Plan.pdf
Documentation Detail: My academic plan