Submit an Academic Petition or Appeal

Petition Letter: To the Academic Petition Committee,
I am respectfully writing to request reconsideration of my academic petition regarding CISC 101 (Fall 2022) and CISC 121 (Winter 2023).

I understand that I have previously submitted a petition concerning these courses. However, I am asking the Committee to review my circumstances once again because the difficulties I experienced during that period had a much deeper and longer-lasting impact on my academic performance than I was able to properly communicate at the time.

When I began my studies at Queen's University, I was adjusting not only to a new academic environment but also to life as an international student living thousands of kilometers away from my family and support network. The transition was significantly more difficult than I anticipated. I struggled with isolation, emotional stress, financial concerns, and the pressure of adapting to a completely different educational system while trying to meet high expectations for academic success.

During the period in which I was enrolled in CISC 101 and later CISC 121, I experienced a series of personal hardships that affected my ability to concentrate, study effectively, and perform academically. One of the most difficult events was the passing of one of my closest uncles. His death had a profound impact on me and my family. Being so far from home during a period of grief was incredibly painful, as I was unable to be physically present with my loved ones or properly participate in mourning and supporting my family. The emotional burden remained with me for an extended period and significantly affected my mental well-being and academic focus.

At the same time, I was struggling to adapt to university life in Canada. As a first-year international student, I often felt overwhelmed and did not fully understand the academic resources and support systems available to me. Rather than seeking help early, I attempted to manage everything on my own. Looking back, I recognize that this was a mistake, but at the time I felt immense pressure to succeed while dealing with circumstances that were beyond my control.

These challenges directly affected my performance in CISC 101 and CISC 121. My ability to attend classes consistently, stay engaged with course material, complete assignments effectively, and prepare for assessments was significantly impaired. The grades I received during this period do not accurately reflect my academic ability or commitment to my education.

The reason I am applying again is not simply because I am dissatisfied with the outcome of my previous petition. Rather, it is because I continue to feel that the full extent of the hardships I experienced during that period was not adequately conveyed. Over the years, I have matured considerably, reflected on those experiences, and developed stronger coping strategies and support systems. I have continued my studies despite numerous challenges and remain committed to completing my degree successfully.
As I approach the completion of my university education, I respectfully ask the Committee to consider the extraordinary circumstances that affected me during Fall 2022 and Winter 2023. Those semesters occurred during one of the most difficult periods of my life, and the academic outcomes from that time continue to affect my record today.

I am not seeking special treatment. I am simply asking for understanding and consideration of circumstances that were beyond my control and that had a genuine and substantial impact on my academic performance. I would be deeply grateful for any consideration the Committee can provide.

Thank you for your time, compassion, and careful review of my petition.

Sincerely,
Safwan Bin Sadek
Student Number: 20369815