Submit an Academic Petition or Appeal

Petition Letter: I am submitting this petition to request permission to drop CISC 235 without academic penalty, due to extenuating medical circumstances beyond my control that have directly and seriously affected my academic performance.

Last year, I experienced a seizure that significantly disrupted my health and studies and led me to take a semester away from university. Since that time, I have been under medical treatment and have taken several prescribed medications related to seizure management, mood stabilization, depression, ADHD, and bipolar symptoms. Although I returned to my studies with the intention of continuing normally, my health has again become unstable during this examination period.

At present, I am experiencing severe withdrawal-related symptoms associated with changes in my medication use and tapering. These symptoms have included persistent vomiting, dehydration, inability to eat properly for several days, insomnia, severe emotional instability, depression, and thoughts of self-harm. Even while trying to manage these symptoms as best as I can, they have made it extremely difficult to function normally on a daily basis. I have struggled to sleep, maintain nutrition, focus, study effectively, regulate my mental state, and physically cope with academic demands. In addition, I underwent a rapid taper off one of my medications and had fully come off it by the beginning of last week. Since then, I have lost 7 pounds and have been vomiting daily, to the point that blood vessels in my eyes have burst. I have also been experiencing the symptoms described above, most notably severe migraines, mania, memory problems, and thoughts of self-harm.

I have attended therapy in the past and may seek that support again after the examination period. At present, however, I am trying to manage this situation on my own and focus on getting through my other exams at least.

These circumstances have had a direct effect on my academic performance, especially in relation to today’s CISC 235 exam. My condition has worsened at a critical time, and I do not believe I am medically or mentally able to perform in a way that reflects my true effort or understanding of the course. I am not petitioning because of ordinary academic difficulty or lack of preparation. Rather, I am petitioning because my ability to write this exam has been seriously impaired by health issues that are beyond my control.

The timing and severity of these symptoms have made this course particularly difficult to manage. While I am still attempting to continue with my other courses and exams where I feel I may still have some opportunity to pass, I do not believe I have a fair or realistic chance of succeeding in CISC 235 under my present condition. In this course, the impact of my medical situation is such that writing the exam would not be an accurate reflection of my academic ability.

I have supporting documentation for these circumstances, including a doctor’s letter, medication receipts, and relevant health history. Student Wellness also has documentation relating to my medical and mental health history. These materials support both the seriousness of my circumstances and the fact that they are ongoing and directly connected to my academic difficulties.

I have made efforts to manage my condition and continue my studies despite these challenges. However, there has come a point where I cannot reasonably cope with the demands of this exam without serious risk to my wellbeing and without unfairly compromising my academic record. I am therefore requesting compassionate consideration of my circumstances and permission to drop CISC 235 without academic penalty. And I will retake this course during the Fall semester of 2026.

Thank you for taking the time to consider my petition. I appreciate your understanding and consideration during a period that has been extremely difficult for me medically and personally.

Sincerely,
Ayaan Tariq
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