Submit an Academic Petition or Appeal

Petition Letter: Queen's University
ATTN: Dr. Johanne Benard, Associate Dean (Studies)

January 5, 2016

RE: Academic Appeal FILM 240

Dear Dr. Benard,

Please accept this letter as an appeal for credit standing in FILM 240. After discussing the matter with my academic advisor, and on the advice of my professor, it was suggested that I submit this appeal.

I experienced extenuating circumstances this fall, which adversely affected my academic performance. During the month of October 2015, my grandfather became ill, and passed away November 9th. One of the major course projects due during this time period resulted in a failing grade. FILM 240 does not allow for extensions. The course outline indicates that no extensions will be granted except in the case of documented medical emergency or disability accommodation. Therefore, I felt I had no choice but to submit the project, which was due the day of my grandfather's funeral. I received a failing mark on the project because my citations all came from academic sources, rather than incorporating half from course notes. This mark should have accounted for 20 of my final grade. I did not participate in online discussions at this time, which also resulted in a low grade.I was, however, granted extensions on projects in several other courses by other instructors who were very accommodating and kind.

This was a very difficult time for me. I had many days of tears and a number of sleepless nights. I had difficulty concentrating on my work. I spent a lot of time with my Grandma so she wouldn't have to be alone.

After appealing my grade with my professor of FILM 240, she decided that she would prorate my final mark and exclude this project. Although I accepted this offer, I was disappointed it did not take into account my hard work on the project, especially under such difficult circumstances.

Additionally, because of technical difficulties, the final exam for the course, for which I felt well prepared, was abandoned with only about 25 minutes remaining. The final exam should have accounted for 25 of my final grade. These circumstances beyond my control have resulted in a disappointing C grade in this class.

December 4th would have been my Grandpa's birthday. Christmas was hard this year without him, but I am feeling better now than I did in the fall. I don't believe I need to seek extra counseling to deal with his death; it will just take time. I try to eat well and get enough sleep so I'm able to handle all of my academic challenges.

I hope to graduate this year with an English Degree and a Certificate of Academic Writing. Excluding this low final course mark would mean that my GPA will not be adversely affected. I hope to apply to a Master's Program in the future, so my marks will be important for that reason.

I will include a copy of my grandfather's death certificate and his obituary for your reference.

Please let me know if you do require any further information for this appeal.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,
Connie Rossitter
Student ID 10166182