Submit an Academic Petition or Appeal

Petition Letter: Dear Associate Dean (Studies):

My name is Piper Southward and I am a third-year Kinesiology student here at Queen¿¿s University. I am appealing to drop ANAT 315 (The Human Musculoskeletal System) this term (Fall 2019).

This semester I have been struggling with unforeseen personal health conditions beyond my control, in which they have directly impacted my academic performance. My health status has deteriorated since September and has impacted my overall wellbeing on a daily basis, as I was diagnosed with an autoimmune condition as well as other systemic health issues in very early September. I submitted extenuating circumstances earlier this term for a 4 day-3month request regarding my health and had 2 of my midterms moved to a later date to accommodate this. I also have registered accommodations with Accessibility Services and have met with my advisor who is aware of the circumstances and have updated some of my accommodations to best support me in my other courses for the remainder of the term. I knew going into the school year in September that my health, both physical and mental was not ideal. I am seeing specialists, a few different doctors and speak to a therapist weekly to help with regaining optimal health status for coming back strong and healthy for next semester (Winter 2020). I have been trying my absolute best in my courses this term, but when health is compromised, it has a large effect on overall wellbeing, and not just academic performance. I am kindly asking you that my appeal by granted, so that I can finish this semester strong, mitigate stress by reducing course load, and focus on healing. I did not drop this ANAT 315 course at an earlier date as I most recently met with my physician on November 8th to touch base about my health status, and it was not until then that she made it apparent I need to take actions to reduce both mental and physical stress immediately. I have been taking my health very seriously and it is of top priority for me right now, which is why I believe that dropping this particular class would help; it is the most academically demanding of all my courses this term, as well as the most number of hours of class and labs per week.

With regards to my future plans, I plan to take this course next year in the first term, as it is a required course for my degree plan. I will take the holiday break to evaluate my health, continue to work with my medical specialists and determine if I should take 4 or even 3 courses next term. I am continuing to work with my amazing health team to get my health back on track, so I can successfully complete my courses next term. I am continuing to prioritize my health, and in doing so I need to set myself up in a way that helps me manage my health conditions, as not to worsen my symptoms and current state of health. I greatly appreciate your time and consideration.

Thank you.
Sincerely,

Piper Southward Bachelor of Science (Honours), Kinesiology
School of Kinesiology and Health Studies Queen¿¿s University