Manage Appeals
Petition Type: New
ID: 13240
Submitted: May 27, 2025 at 12:19:16 AM
First Name: Akshithaa
Last Name: Devaraj
Pronoun: She her
Preferred Name: Akshithaa
Student Number: 20477680
Email: 23fc58@queensu.ca
Degree Program: BScH
Plan: KINE-BSH
Level of Study: 1
Petition Categories
Petition Categories: Waive the requirement to withdraw for one year
Petition Letter
Petition Letter: May 26th 2025
To the Associate Dean,
I am writing to respectfully appeal the recommendation that I take a gap year from my studies at Queen's University. I understand that this recommendation may be based on my academic performance, and I take full responsibility for not meeting the GPA requirements.
However, I am asking for an opportunity to continue my studies without interruption, as I believe that doing so is
essential for both my academic and personal development.
As an international student, my transition to university life has been especially difficult. I experienced deep loneliness, isolation and terrible homesickness during my first year, leading to me struggling to form connections. I have never felt that way before, and it impacted my studies negatively. These challenges took a toll on my mental health and, in turn, affected my academic performance.
Since then, I have taken active steps to improve my situation. I have begun attending counseling to help me manage my mental health and build stronger coping strategies. I have also secured a
stable and supportive living environment that will allow me to focus more effectively on my studies. I now feel more prepared, emotionally and practically, to handle the demands of university life.
Taking a gap year at this stage would interrupt the progress I've made and set me back just as I am beginning to find my footing. I am eager to return to Queen's, apply what I've learned, and work with
available academic and personal support systems to succeed. I am also willing to accept any conditions or academic support plans the university may offer. Please consider giving me the opportunity to continue my education without a break. I am fully committed to making positive changes and taking responsibility for my academic success moving forward.
Thank you very much for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Akshithaa Devaraj
To the Associate Dean,
I am writing to respectfully appeal the recommendation that I take a gap year from my studies at Queen's University. I understand that this recommendation may be based on my academic performance, and I take full responsibility for not meeting the GPA requirements.
However, I am asking for an opportunity to continue my studies without interruption, as I believe that doing so is
essential for both my academic and personal development.
As an international student, my transition to university life has been especially difficult. I experienced deep loneliness, isolation and terrible homesickness during my first year, leading to me struggling to form connections. I have never felt that way before, and it impacted my studies negatively. These challenges took a toll on my mental health and, in turn, affected my academic performance.
Since then, I have taken active steps to improve my situation. I have begun attending counseling to help me manage my mental health and build stronger coping strategies. I have also secured a
stable and supportive living environment that will allow me to focus more effectively on my studies. I now feel more prepared, emotionally and practically, to handle the demands of university life.
Taking a gap year at this stage would interrupt the progress I've made and set me back just as I am beginning to find my footing. I am eager to return to Queen's, apply what I've learned, and work with
available academic and personal support systems to succeed. I am also willing to accept any conditions or academic support plans the university may offer. Please consider giving me the opportunity to continue my education without a break. I am fully committed to making positive changes and taking responsibility for my academic success moving forward.
Thank you very much for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Akshithaa Devaraj
Academic Plan
Academic Plan: Academic Plan: Akshithaa Devaraj, Bachelor of Kinesiology, Queen's University
A. Course of Study
Am I registered in my desired degree plan?
Yes, I am currently registered in the Bachelor of Kinesiology program. This is the field I am
passionate about, and I am committed to completing my degree within this plan.
Actions Taken:
I have reviewed my Academic Advisement Report in SOLUS and understand my degree
requirements and outstanding courses.
I will meet with an academic advisor to discuss feasible course loads and strategies to rebuild my
GPA.
B. Full-time vs. Part-time Load
Planned Load:
I am requesting to continue my studies without taking a gap year, with a slightly reduced course load
if necessary to ensure academic success while I address personal and academic challenges.
- I have taken concrete steps to manage the issues that contributed to my low GPA.
- I believe continued engagement in my studies will help me stay focused and motivated.
- I am creating a balanced plan that supports both my academic recovery and mental well-being.
C. Strategies for Success
1. Challenges I Faced:
- Transition difficulties as an international student.
- Struggles with anxiety, which affected my academic performance and social connections.
- Isolation and difficulty forming a support network.
2. How I Will Address These:
- I will contact the Student Wellness Services and begin working with a counsellor to
manage my anxiety.
- I will participate in Peer Mentoring and study groups to build connections and accountability.
- I plan to use Student Academic Success Services (SASS) for academic skill-building, including
time management, study techniques, and exam preparation.
3. Additional Steps I'm Taking:
- Regular meetings with an academic advisor to review my academic plan and progress.
- Applying for support through Academic Consideration if future personal issues arise.
- Prioritizing self-care and setting healthy boundaries between work, study, and rest.
Personal Circumstances
As an international student, I initially struggled with adapting to a new academic and social
environment. These challenges, combined with anxiety, led to a drop in my performance. However, I
have taken concrete steps to address my mental health and build a strong support system. I now
feel more prepared and confident to manage my responsibilities effectively.
Financial and Workload Considerations
- I currently do not have any financial problems.
Evaluation of Progress
- I will meet regularly with an academic advisor to assess my progress and revise my plan as
needed.
- I will track my academic goals and reflections weekly to stay accountable.
- I will seek ongoing support from SASS, counselling, and peer mentors throughout the term.
Request Summary
I respectfully request permission to continue my studies without taking a gap year. I acknowledge
the challenges I've faced, but I am actively working to overcome them and have developed a clear
plan for academic success. I am committed to improving my performance and making full use of the
resources available at Queen's.
A. Course of Study
Am I registered in my desired degree plan?
Yes, I am currently registered in the Bachelor of Kinesiology program. This is the field I am
passionate about, and I am committed to completing my degree within this plan.
Actions Taken:
I have reviewed my Academic Advisement Report in SOLUS and understand my degree
requirements and outstanding courses.
I will meet with an academic advisor to discuss feasible course loads and strategies to rebuild my
GPA.
B. Full-time vs. Part-time Load
Planned Load:
I am requesting to continue my studies without taking a gap year, with a slightly reduced course load
if necessary to ensure academic success while I address personal and academic challenges.
- I have taken concrete steps to manage the issues that contributed to my low GPA.
- I believe continued engagement in my studies will help me stay focused and motivated.
- I am creating a balanced plan that supports both my academic recovery and mental well-being.
C. Strategies for Success
1. Challenges I Faced:
- Transition difficulties as an international student.
- Struggles with anxiety, which affected my academic performance and social connections.
- Isolation and difficulty forming a support network.
2. How I Will Address These:
- I will contact the Student Wellness Services and begin working with a counsellor to
manage my anxiety.
- I will participate in Peer Mentoring and study groups to build connections and accountability.
- I plan to use Student Academic Success Services (SASS) for academic skill-building, including
time management, study techniques, and exam preparation.
3. Additional Steps I'm Taking:
- Regular meetings with an academic advisor to review my academic plan and progress.
- Applying for support through Academic Consideration if future personal issues arise.
- Prioritizing self-care and setting healthy boundaries between work, study, and rest.
Personal Circumstances
As an international student, I initially struggled with adapting to a new academic and social
environment. These challenges, combined with anxiety, led to a drop in my performance. However, I
have taken concrete steps to address my mental health and build a strong support system. I now
feel more prepared and confident to manage my responsibilities effectively.
Financial and Workload Considerations
- I currently do not have any financial problems.
Evaluation of Progress
- I will meet regularly with an academic advisor to assess my progress and revise my plan as
needed.
- I will track my academic goals and reflections weekly to stay accountable.
- I will seek ongoing support from SASS, counselling, and peer mentors throughout the term.
Request Summary
I respectfully request permission to continue my studies without taking a gap year. I acknowledge
the challenges I've faced, but I am actively working to overcome them and have developed a clear
plan for academic success. I am committed to improving my performance and making full use of the
resources available at Queen's.
Documentation
Professional Letter: Doctors notice .pdf
