Submit an Academic Petition or Appeal

Petition Letter: Sue Blake
Associate Dean (Studies)
Faculty of Arts & Science
Queen¿¿s University

Dear Ms. Blake,

I am writing to request Aegrotat Standing in Professor Rosanne Currarino¿¿s HIST 216 for the Fall 2016 semester. I have completed 65 of the coursework, leaving one assignment (worth 35) unfinished. I am applying to waive this assignment.

I experienced a mental health issue this past fall (September to December 2016) that made studying and completing course work challenging. I was able to attend most classes but had great difficulty completing assignments and papers on time. Near the end of the term, I was overwhelmed with unfinished work and upcoming exams. At this point, I finally began to address my mental health issue with myself, my family, my doctor and Queen¿¿s.

The end of this semester acted as a wake up call for me, as I realized I needed help. While I have struggled with mental health issues for years, life these past few months grew increasingly challenging. Working became more and more difficult, and I ended up getting far behind in all of my courses. With exams fast approaching and several papers to complete, I felt overwhelmed. When I began the process of addressing these mental heath issues, I was encouraged to contact my professors in order to communicate my situation. I was able to work out a plan with each of my professors concerning the work for each class. They were supportive and accommodating, offering various solutions. With extensions granted, I was able to complete some of these assignments and all of my exams.

For HIST 216, my professor suggested an AG application as one possible solution after she received the initial email on my situation. Her suggestion of an AG was a huge help during a stressful time, allowing me to prepare for and complete my exams and other assignments, without having to worry about the HIST 216 paper. I had initially planned on completing the HIST 216 assignment after the exam period. However, I desperately needed a break from school, and a period to relax and prepare for next semester. Thus, I made the decision to apply for AG standing, as professor Currarino had initially offered.

While I am still struggling, I have taken steps to improve my situation and get support. In November, I spoke to my doctor about my mental health. She and I formulated a plan to treat my mental illness. I have since seen a more specialized professional to help with my diagnosis and treatment plan. I will be attending counseling at Queen¿¿s starting in January. In addition, next semester, as I continue to work on my mental health, I will be taking fewer classes. With both familial and medical support, as well as regular counseling, I feel I can successfully handle 3-4 courses. I will continue to meet regularly with my doctor and QSAS to ensure I have the plan and support needed.

I have appreciated Queen¿¿s University¿¿s support (QSAS and my professors) during this time. I also appreciate your consideration of this AG application.

Regards,
Hannah Williams