Submit an Academic Petition or Appeal

Petition Letter: Dear Ms. Everson,

It was very nice to speak with you recently . Thank you once again for all of your guidance over the past two years .

As you are aware I am appealing to withdraw from course RELS 239 on medical grounds .

Last year was a very difficult year as I struggled with severe anxiety and depression. This is a very personal topic and I find it very difficult to discuss. Due to my mood issues my medications were changed prior to Christmas break (2014) as my symptoms were overwhelming. I returned after the break and hoped that things would get easier. Unfortunately, my symptoms did not abate and the term was emotionally very difficult. I had already reduced my course load going into the term and stayed in touch with my physician and psychologist in Toronto with regular visits back to the city. It was very challenging going back and forth but I am very strongly rooted in Kingston and wanted to continue my studies with the help of my care team.

During this period I was unable to complete an assignment on time and was given an extension and then missed an exam and the makeup due to uncontrolled anxiety. I discussed this with you at the time but no resolution was found. It only came to my attention more recently that I could not make up any of the work and would have a fail registered on my transcript. This is devastating to me. I am working very hard to continue my studies at Queens University and give back to the Kingston community. I even won an award at the end of the school year for my individual efforts at Queen¿¿s.

I have continued to follow up with medical care and have support in returning to school this fall. I have taken summer courses again this year and continue to be committed to completing my studies at Queen¿¿s.

Had I understood earlier that nothing could or would be done regarding this course, I certainly would have dropped the course to avoid this situation.

Thank you for your understanding.

Yours truly,
Marlee Satok