Submit an Academic Petition or Appeal

Petition Letter: Petition Letter – Late Drop Request for CHEM 222 (Winter 2026)

To the Associate Dean,
Faculty of Arts and Science
Queen’s University

I am writing to request approval for a late drop from CHEM 222 for the Winter 2026 term. I understand that this request is being submitted after the official deadline, but I experienced significant and unexpected circumstances that directly affected my academic performance and prevented me from initiating a drop or seeking accommodations in time.

In the period immediately before and during the CHEM 222 midterm, I experienced a sudden and severe decline in my mental health. This decline was abrupt and far more intense than anything I had previously encountered. It affected my ability to concentrate, study effectively, retain information, and complete even basic academic tasks. These functional impairments persisted for several weeks following the midterm, during which I struggled to complete assignments, keep up with weekly content, and engage meaningfully with the course.

At the same time, I was unexpectedly removed from the varsity soccer team, a team I had been committed to for three years. This was a sudden and destabilizing event that occurred without warning and had a profound impact on my mental well‑being. The timing of this event coincided directly with the CHEM 222 midterm period, compounding the mental health challenges I was already experiencing. As a result, I was unable to prepare adequately for the midterm and performed far below my usual academic standard. The subsequent labs, assignments, and post‑midterm material were also affected, as I remained unable to function academically at my normal level.

These circumstances were acute, unforeseeable, and beyond my control. Because the decline in my mental health was so sudden and overwhelming, I was not in a functional state to navigate the formal processes required to request accommodations or initiate a course drop before the deadline. At the time, I did not fully understand the severity of what I was experiencing, and I attempted to manage on my own until it became clear that I could not.

After this period, I sought support to stabilize my situation, including speaking with a counsellor and meeting with an academic advisor to ensure I could manage my remaining coursework. My academic performance in other courses has been consistently strong, and the difficulties I faced in CHEM 222 do not reflect my typical capabilities or commitment to my studies.

Given the severity, timing, and impact of these events, I respectfully request approval for a late drop from CHEM 222 so that my academic record accurately reflects my abilities and the exceptional circumstances I faced. I am prepared to provide any additional documentation or clarification if required.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,
Samuel