Submit an Academic Petition or Appeal

New Information: Subject: Request for Permission for Early Return to Studies – Fall 2026
Dear Members of the Academic Petitions Committee,
I am writing to respectfully request permission to return to studies in the Faculty of Arts and Science in Fall 2026, prior to the completion of my withdrawal period scheduled to end on April 30, 2027.
I fully accept responsibility for the academic integrity violations that led to my withdrawal following multiple Notices of Investigation. I understand that the repeated nature of these incidents raises serious concerns about my readiness to return, and I accept that I must demonstrate not only reflection, but a fundamental and sustained change in how I approach academic work under pressure.
Since my withdrawal, I have engaged in sustained and structured self-directed learning and reflection focused on identifying the behavioural patterns that contributed to past misconduct. I recognize that the core issue was not a lack of understanding of academic integrity rules, but inconsistent application of those standards under academic pressure, time constraints, and uncertainty.
To address this, I have implemented structured and long-term changes to my academic process. I have established a fixed weekly study schedule with defined learning objectives and consistent self-assessment to maintain structure and accountability. I have maintained this system continuously during my time away from studies.
I have also rebuilt foundational knowledge in computing and mathematics through independent study focused on complete solution tracing and independent problem-solving, ensuring that all work is fully understood and reproducible without reliance on external solutions. In addition, I have introduced a formal verification step before completing any academic task, where I check for independent work, proper attribution, and compliance with academic integrity standards.
I have also consulted with academic advising regarding my study structure and return planning, and have incorporated their guidance into my current academic routine. In addition, I have implemented a structured self-monitoring system to track weekly academic progress and ensure consistent adherence to academic integrity expectations over time.
I understand that in cases involving repeated academic integrity concerns, the primary consideration is whether there is a credible and sustained reduction in risk of recurrence under academic pressure. I take this concern seriously, and the systems I have implemented are designed specifically to address the conditions that previously led to poor decision-making.
If granted an early return, I would begin with a reduced course load and prioritize foundational courses such as CISC 121. I would continue engaging with academic advising and student support resources to maintain accountability and ensure appropriate academic planning. I am also willing to comply with any additional conditions the Committee deems necessary, including structured monitoring or academic restrictions.
I respectfully ask the Committee to consider whether the changes I have implemented provide sufficient assurance of reduced risk to permit an early return. I appreciate your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Ryan Gao
Student ID: 20349935