Submit an Academic Petition or Appeal

Petition Letter: Dear Dr. Johanne Bénard,

I am applying for Aegrotat standing in the courses Chem 112 and Math 121 in which I have completed all the required course work for both semesters up until and excluding the final exams in the winter semester.

I was unable to confidently write my final exams in these courses due to becoming ill with mononucleosis. This illness had a debilitating effect on my academic performance throughout the duration of my sickness leading up to and during final exams. This sickness left me confined to my bedroom, too lethargic and fatigued to make it to morning classes towards the end of the semester and largely impacted my studies leading up to exams. My inability to concentrate and study due to the physical symptoms of my illness was also a detriment to my mental wellness and further exacerbated an already stressful period for a first year student. I sought the advice from guidance councillors and as the exam date approached I ultimately realized my sickness had left me unprepared for the final exam. I would not have been able to function at an optimal level during the time of the exam, unreflective of how I felt my understanding of the course material was during the school year and during the fall term exam.

I realize that exam periods are stressful periods for all students and that mental health and physical health can be hand in hand. In the future I will take steps to ensure I prevent sickness during the school year and especially during exams by ensuring I eat healthily, take lots of vitamins, and wash my hands frequently. I have also taken steps to protect and enhance my mental health in times of stress by seeing a psychologist in Halifax over the summer who specializes in cognitive behavioral therapy. I have received support from both my professors to apply for AG standing and I have a scheduled appointment with my physician on September 24th to have supporting documentation sent to your office.

I appreciate your time and consideration.

Shaun Lund
10177325