Submit an Academic Petition or Appeal

Petition Letter: Dear Associate Dean (Academic),

I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to formally request academic consideration due to ongoing medical issues that have significantly impacted my ability to fully engage in my studies.

Since the summer of 2022, I have been diagnosed with a right knee meniscus injury and left knee synovitis. I have attached notarized translations of my medical diagnosis and treatment records to support my request. The condition causes persistent pain, swelling, and limited mobility, particularly when walking outdoors. On my doctor’s advice, I must avoid exposure to cold weather to prevent worsening my symptoms. Given Canada’s climate, this has directly affected my ability to attend in-person classes and participate in campus activities.

As a result, I have reduced my on-campus attendance and limited my course load to four courses per term, prioritizing online classes where possible to manage my condition.

In the Fall term of 2023, my condition worsened, causing me to fall short of the prerequisites for two advanced courses, which I therefore had to retake. Later, in November 2024, while I was in China attending my grandfather’s funeral, my symptoms suddenly intensified, and I received medical treatment during that time. My medical records from 2022 to 2025, including those from this period, are included in my submission.

The chronic nature of my knee condition has meant frequent flare-ups, persistent pain, and prolonged recovery times, all of which have limited my participation, particularly in courses requiring in-person attendance during the Fall and Winter terms.

Throughout this time, I have actively sought medical care, followed treatment plans closely, and adjusted my academic schedule accordingly to reduce strain. Despite these efforts, my condition continues to impact my academic performance.

Currently, I need to complete 36 units to graduate, but the standard maximum of 30 units over two terms means I cannot finish on time under usual circumstances. Therefore, I respectfully request permission to complete an additional 9 units off-campus during the Winter 2026 term.

This specific request arises because, for Winter 2026, I was only able to identify one suitable online course. For comparison, in Fall 2025, I took five courses, two of which were online, allowing me to attend only three courses on campus. Being able to complete four courses on campus and three courses off-campus in Winter 2026 would enable me to meet graduation requirements while managing my health.

Thank you very much for considering my request. I am happy to provide any further information or documentation you may require.

Sincerely,
Yichi Zheng