Submit an Academic Petition or Appeal

Petition Letter: January 10, 2017
RE: Christine Holloway, Student 10123953

To Associate Dean (Studies),

I am submitting a request to appeal a decision made in my ARTH 250 class. My request is to apply for a credit standing in this course, so the final mark does impact my cumulative GPA. I require a strong GPA for a Master of Science in Education program I am currently completing an application for.

I took ARTH 250 online with Professor Corbett. The subject matter was challenging for me and out of my comfort zone. I selected this course for this very reason. I made a grave mistake when preparing my final exhibition essay (30). I lost sight of the assignments instructions during my struggles to find a research topic I felt confident in presenting. After spending days researching concepts and artists to feature that I felt confident in presenting, I unintentionally selected an artist that was not within the era outlined in the instructions. I was truly proud of my final piece and submitted early. The TA refused to read the paper due to the error. I received a failing grade. I approached Professor Corbett, who in turn said there was nothing further she could do. Fully admitting this was my mistake, I asked for a chance to rewrite a new paper and/or to be docked severely for this error if the original paper could be read. Professor Corbett denied my request. In my last communication with Professor Corbett, I asked for one last consideration given my final grade would negatively impact my GPA and my Masters application. I did not receive any further communication from Professor Corbett.

This appeal process requires us to explain the reason for the request and to state any extenuating circumstances that may have impacted my actions. I lead a demanding personal life: juggling my young family (10 month old and 3 year old), private home daycare business, and a mature student with a goal of becoming a teacher. We had some family situations during this time period (illness and funeral) that pulled me away from my studies. I do not share this as an excuse, just background information. I made a human error. I participated in all aspects of the course. I prepared all my requested items on time. I was doing my personal best at a difficult time and with a subject matter that I find challenging.

It would be an understatement to suggest that in the future I will better read and be aware of the instructions for an assignment. I have been deeply impacted by these events. It has provided an opportunity to look at my personal and professional obligations, to devise a plan to better master everything for my next four courses at Queens.

I thank you very much in advance for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,
Christine Holloway