Submit an Academic Petition or Appeal

Petition Letter: To whom it may concern,

I am writing to formally petition for the removal of a failing grade from my transcript for PHIL 259, taken in the Fall 2024 semester. I am requesting this consideration due to severe mental health challenges and a situational crisis at home that directly and significantly affected my academic performance during that period.

During that semester, I was facing a serious crisis at home. A close family member was struggling with alcoholism and suicidal thoughts, and I took on the responsibility of supporting them and ensuring their safety. Balancing these overwhelming caregiving responsibilities with my academic obligations proved extremely difficult, and I was unable to complete the coursework successfully. The effects of this situation extended throughout the academic year, further compounding the challenges I faced.

This failing grade does not reflect my abilities, work ethic, or commitment to my studies at Queen’s University. Since that time, I have worked diligently to stay on top of my courses, and my recent grades demonstrate both my improvement and my true academic potential. I believe this shows that the failing grade was an isolated result of extraordinary circumstances, rather than an accurate reflection of my capabilities.

I have also taken meaningful steps to prioritize my well-being, including counselling and family therapy, which have allowed me to better manage my responsibilities and maintain my academic performance.

I deeply value my education and the opportunities Queen’s has provided me, and I am committed to continuing my studies with integrity and perseverance. However, the permanent presence of this failing grade on my transcript, given the unique and severe challenges surrounding it, would cause lasting and disproportionate harm to my academic and professional future.

I respectfully ask the Board to grant my petition and remove this grade from my transcript, recognizing both the extraordinary challenges I faced during that time and the progress I have made since. I am prepared to provide supporting documentation from my family doctor and therapist to verify these circumstances.

Thank you for considering my request with compassion and understanding. I am grateful for your attention and for the support systems available to students at Queen’s.

Sincerely,
Anita Nadarajah
20234592