Manage Appeals
Petition Type: New
ID: 13300
Submitted: June 9, 2025 at 1:29:38 AM
First Name: JIAHAO
Last Name: CUI
Pronoun: he
Preferred Name: Tristan
Student Number: 20288248
Email: 20jc149@queensu.ca
Degree Program: BAH
Plan: PSYC
Level of Study: 1
Petition Categories
Petition Categories: Waive the requirement to withdraw for a minimum of three years
Petition Letter
Petition Letter: Please see details in my attachments. Thank you for your understanding.
Academic Plan
Academic Plan: I recognize the importance of actively using university resources to support both my academic
progress and personal well-being. I plan to regularly attend workshops and tutoring sessions
offered by Student Academic Success Services to enhance my time management, exam
strategies, and study habits (https://sass.queensu.ca/). Additionally, I will proactively work with an
academic advisor to carefully plan my course load and ensure I stay on track. I am continuing
psychological treatment and will regularly utilize support from Student Wellness Services at
Queen's,
including
counselling
and
mental
health
services
(https://www.queensu.ca/studentwellness/mental-health). I will also strengthen my body and
actively participate in various fitness programs to shift my emotions through exercise and make
my physical and mental health more stable (https://rec.gogaelsgo.com/sports/intramurals). I now
have a clear and determined plan for the future, and I hope to prove—through concrete
action—that I still have both the ability and the commitment to continue my undergraduate
studies at Queen's University.
1. Retake Math Courses and Strengthen My Foundations
The main courses I failed were math-related (MATH110 and MATH120). Although the results
were disappointing, I've already gone through the full content of both courses and have a solid
grasp of the basics. If I'm given the chance to continue my studies, I intend to retake these
courses in the upcoming term. During the vacation, I've already enrolled in one-on-one math
tutoring here in China. I've also purchased multiple sets of textbooks and online course materials
and created a detailed plan for review and preparation. Several friends of mine have successfully
completed these courses with high marks, and I plan to learn from them and actively form study
groups. I've set a personal goal to achieve at least a B+ when I retake them.
2. Focus on My Strengths and Dive Deeper into Computer Science
In the 2025 Winter term, I performed well in my computer science courses (CISC 121 and CISC
102), and that success has been the most fulfilling part of my academic journey so far. Moving
forward, I plan to focus on computer science as my primary academic direction, with the goal of
delving deeper into topics such as data structures, algorithms, and software development. I'm
currently self-studying Python and Java, and I've been learning how to use GitHub to manage
projects. During my vacation, I also plan to attend a computer science boot camp here in China
to improve my programming skills further. I'm working on a small software project to build my
portfolio and prepare for more advanced study in the field.
In addition, to prevent emotional distress from interfering with my academics again, I will continue
with regular therapy sessions. I've learned the importance of recognizing early warning signs and
seeking timely support. I also plan to actively use the university's academic support services to
improve my time management, task planning, and exam preparation skills. For every term
moving forward, I will create a detailed personal study plan with clear goals and checkpoints and
hold myself accountable for consistent improvement.
I'm not satisfied with my academic performance from 2024 to 2025, but I sincerely hope the
university can understand that these grades do not truly reflect my abilities. They are the result of
an extremely difficult period in my life, during which I was struggling to cope with an unexpected
family crisis and serious mental health challenges. I fully understand the high standards and
academic excellence that Queen's University upholds, and I know how fortunate I am to be a part
of this institution. All I ask for is another chance to continue my studies here. I am determined to
prove my potential and demonstrate my genuine commitment to the university.
progress and personal well-being. I plan to regularly attend workshops and tutoring sessions
offered by Student Academic Success Services to enhance my time management, exam
strategies, and study habits (https://sass.queensu.ca/). Additionally, I will proactively work with an
academic advisor to carefully plan my course load and ensure I stay on track. I am continuing
psychological treatment and will regularly utilize support from Student Wellness Services at
Queen's,
including
counselling
and
mental
health
services
(https://www.queensu.ca/studentwellness/mental-health). I will also strengthen my body and
actively participate in various fitness programs to shift my emotions through exercise and make
my physical and mental health more stable (https://rec.gogaelsgo.com/sports/intramurals). I now
have a clear and determined plan for the future, and I hope to prove—through concrete
action—that I still have both the ability and the commitment to continue my undergraduate
studies at Queen's University.
1. Retake Math Courses and Strengthen My Foundations
The main courses I failed were math-related (MATH110 and MATH120). Although the results
were disappointing, I've already gone through the full content of both courses and have a solid
grasp of the basics. If I'm given the chance to continue my studies, I intend to retake these
courses in the upcoming term. During the vacation, I've already enrolled in one-on-one math
tutoring here in China. I've also purchased multiple sets of textbooks and online course materials
and created a detailed plan for review and preparation. Several friends of mine have successfully
completed these courses with high marks, and I plan to learn from them and actively form study
groups. I've set a personal goal to achieve at least a B+ when I retake them.
2. Focus on My Strengths and Dive Deeper into Computer Science
In the 2025 Winter term, I performed well in my computer science courses (CISC 121 and CISC
102), and that success has been the most fulfilling part of my academic journey so far. Moving
forward, I plan to focus on computer science as my primary academic direction, with the goal of
delving deeper into topics such as data structures, algorithms, and software development. I'm
currently self-studying Python and Java, and I've been learning how to use GitHub to manage
projects. During my vacation, I also plan to attend a computer science boot camp here in China
to improve my programming skills further. I'm working on a small software project to build my
portfolio and prepare for more advanced study in the field.
In addition, to prevent emotional distress from interfering with my academics again, I will continue
with regular therapy sessions. I've learned the importance of recognizing early warning signs and
seeking timely support. I also plan to actively use the university's academic support services to
improve my time management, task planning, and exam preparation skills. For every term
moving forward, I will create a detailed personal study plan with clear goals and checkpoints and
hold myself accountable for consistent improvement.
I'm not satisfied with my academic performance from 2024 to 2025, but I sincerely hope the
university can understand that these grades do not truly reflect my abilities. They are the result of
an extremely difficult period in my life, during which I was struggling to cope with an unexpected
family crisis and serious mental health challenges. I fully understand the high standards and
academic excellence that Queen's University upholds, and I know how fortunate I am to be a part
of this institution. All I ask for is another chance to continue my studies here. I am determined to
prove my potential and demonstrate my genuine commitment to the university.
Documentation
Professional Letter: Petition Letter-6.pdf
Document: Petition Letter-7.pdf
Documentation Detail: Petition Letter
Documentation Detail: Evidence 1_Hospitalization Certificate
Document: Evidence 2_Death Certificate.pdf
Documentation Detail: Evidence 2_Death Certificate
Document: Evidence 3_Depression Certificate.pdf
Documentation Detail: Evidence 3_Depression Certificate
Decision Letters
Level 1 Status
Status: DeniedLevel 2
Appeal Type: Level 2
ID: 328
Submitted: July 17, 2025 at 4:27:55 AM
Relevant Petition: 13300
Decision(s) Being Appealed: Waive the requirement to withdraw for a minimum of three years
Appeal Grounds
Appeals to the Board of Studies must include a letter based on one or more of the Grounds for Appeal (Appeal Regulation 3.4). What are the grounds you are basing your appeal on?
- The Associate Dean's decision did not follow the rules of procedural fairness. A breach of procedural fairness includes such things as the Associate Dean failed to:
- Follow the university rules and regulations in a way that supported your right to a fair process.
- Make a reasonable decision in your appeal. A “reasonable” decision is one that is based on evidence, thought out and supported by facts and logical inferences from the facts. To be reasonable, the decision must contain adequate reasons for the conclusions.
Appeal Grounds Details: I am appealing the decision on the grounds that it was not fully reasonable, as it did not sufficiently consider updated documentation regarding my recovery and readiness to resume studies. In my initial petition, I may have failed to provide comprehensive evidence that I had overcome the extenuating circumstances. However, since then, I have attended follow-up medical assessments, and on July 12, 2025, my physician confirmed that I have made significant progress and am fit to return to academic life.
While the Associate Dean’s decision acknowledged the strength of my academic plan and showed understanding by reducing the withdrawal to one year, it relied on the initial perception that I had not yet demonstrated readiness. That conclusion was made without the benefit of updated medical documents, which I now provide. I believe this makes the original decision incomplete and therefore not fully reasonable.
I also wish to highlight that I was unable to meet certain documentation requirements earlier due to the severe impact of grief, cultural stigma around mental health, and lack of immediate support while studying abroad. I believe a fair process should take into account these barriers and allow students the opportunity to clarify and supplement their case, especially when mental health is involved.
I respectfully request the Board to consider my current condition, verified recovery, and concrete academic preparation, and grant me the opportunity to continue my studies this fall.
While the Associate Dean’s decision acknowledged the strength of my academic plan and showed understanding by reducing the withdrawal to one year, it relied on the initial perception that I had not yet demonstrated readiness. That conclusion was made without the benefit of updated medical documents, which I now provide. I believe this makes the original decision incomplete and therefore not fully reasonable.
I also wish to highlight that I was unable to meet certain documentation requirements earlier due to the severe impact of grief, cultural stigma around mental health, and lack of immediate support while studying abroad. I believe a fair process should take into account these barriers and allow students the opportunity to clarify and supplement their case, especially when mental health is involved.
I respectfully request the Board to consider my current condition, verified recovery, and concrete academic preparation, and grant me the opportunity to continue my studies this fall.
Appeal Letter
Appeal Letter: I am writing with deep sincerity to appeal the one-year required withdrawal decision. I want to thank the Associate Dean for reviewing my initial petition and reducing the withdrawal period from three years to one. I truly appreciate this compassion. However, I now hope to respectfully request the opportunity to resume my studies without further delay.
This past year has been the most difficult period of my life. I underwent surgery in June 2024 and was hospitalized for nearly two months, followed by the unexpected passing of my grandfather—who raised me and was my greatest emotional support—early this year. I was devastated both physically and emotionally, and my mental health declined rapidly into a state of severe depression, which left me unable to function academically. I struggled to ask for help due to cultural barriers, emotional paralysis, and shame. At that time, I felt too broken to reach out.
Since returning to China, I have been receiving weekly therapy and medical support. I now have an updated medical statement (dated July 12, 2025) confirming that I have substantially recovered and am ready to resume full academic responsibilities. I’ve rebuilt a healthy daily routine, established academic goals, and regained the confidence and structure that I previously lacked. I’ve also proactively prepared to retake key courses and have enrolled in tutoring and coding programs during the summer to ensure I am ready for a successful return.
I understand the university’s concern about students needing time away to address personal challenges. But for me, that time has already happened. I have not only reflected on what went wrong but taken serious steps to change my life. I am no longer the person I was during that crisis. I have grown, sought help, and built the tools I need to succeed.
I ask only for a chance to continue my education this fall, to rebuild my academic path with the full intention of meeting and exceeding expectations. I believe in Queen’s University and the values it upholds, and I am committed to contributing positively as a student and member of this community.
Thank you for considering my appeal.
This past year has been the most difficult period of my life. I underwent surgery in June 2024 and was hospitalized for nearly two months, followed by the unexpected passing of my grandfather—who raised me and was my greatest emotional support—early this year. I was devastated both physically and emotionally, and my mental health declined rapidly into a state of severe depression, which left me unable to function academically. I struggled to ask for help due to cultural barriers, emotional paralysis, and shame. At that time, I felt too broken to reach out.
Since returning to China, I have been receiving weekly therapy and medical support. I now have an updated medical statement (dated July 12, 2025) confirming that I have substantially recovered and am ready to resume full academic responsibilities. I’ve rebuilt a healthy daily routine, established academic goals, and regained the confidence and structure that I previously lacked. I’ve also proactively prepared to retake key courses and have enrolled in tutoring and coding programs during the summer to ensure I am ready for a successful return.
I understand the university’s concern about students needing time away to address personal challenges. But for me, that time has already happened. I have not only reflected on what went wrong but taken serious steps to change my life. I am no longer the person I was during that crisis. I have grown, sought help, and built the tools I need to succeed.
I ask only for a chance to continue my education this fall, to rebuild my academic path with the full intention of meeting and exceeding expectations. I believe in Queen’s University and the values it upholds, and I am committed to contributing positively as a student and member of this community.
Thank you for considering my appeal.
Documentation
Document: _Personal Statement.pdf
Document: Medical Certificate-3.pdf
History
Originally submitted June 9, 2025 at 1:29:38 AM.
| Field | Reference | Old Value | New Value | Note | User | Date/Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| status | N/A | Received | In Review | Kerri Andrews | 2025-06-10 12:27:08 PM | |
| status | N/A | In Review | Denied | Kerri Andrews | 2025-07-07 1:15:09 PM | |
| associate_dean | N/A | Scott-Morgan Straker (Acting Associate Dean) | Kerri Andrews | 2025-07-07 1:15:09 PM | ||
| decision_letter | N/A | N/A | Decision letter sent | Kerri Andrews | 2025-07-07 1:15:56 PM | |
| new_appeal_level_2 | N/A | Level 2 | Level 2 Appeal ID: 328 | 20jc149 | 2025-07-17 4:27:55 AM | |
| status | N/A | Received | In Review | Kathrine Scott | 2025-07-25 3:14:16 PM | |
| status | N/A | In Review | ADA Amended Decision | Kathrine Scott | 2025-09-10 2:00:59 PM |