Submit an Academic Petition or Appeal

Petition Letter: I am submitting this letter of appeal asking for a credit standing in DEVS 100 and COMM 251. I completed this course in the summer term of 2014 and received a B- mark in each class.

In June of 2014, I experienced a recurrent meningitis episode. I suffered from significant pain and confusion, which made completing my academic work very challenging. It took three weeks until my symptoms had settled, and I was able to return to most daily activities. Since the spring term covers material at an accelerated pace, I quickly fell behind in both courses during my recovery. Since I was headed into my fourth year of university, it was crucial to complete each course so I wouldn¿¿t have to take an additional course load each semester. My professors were extremely accommodating when I explained the circumstances I was facing. They allowed me to hand in the assignments that were past due to the best of my ability. Since I also missed participation in online discussions and quizzes, they changed the weight of my participation mark to result in a better course mark.
Although my mark suggests I sufficiently met course expectations, I still believe this mark does not accurately reflect my academic ability. If I had not been faced with such a debilitating medical condition, I believe my performance in both of these classes would have improved.

Since I am in fourth year, I am in the process of applying for a masters program in Occupational Therapy. This program uses the mark in my most recent 10 courses to calculate my average GPA. Therefore, the two B- marks are included to determine my admission average. They are the two lowest marks out of my last 10 credits and lower my GPA average to a 3.4. By receiving a credit standing in these courses, these marks are not included and raise my average to a 3.7. Although this may not seem like a significant difference, this program is extremely competitive and has an admission average around an A- or 3.7. By having these two courses included, I would not be considered a competitive applicant with a 3.4 GPA.

I have spoken to advisors at the universities in hopes that they would consider an extenuating circumstances letter to explain how my medical challenges in the spring of 2014 affected my academic performance. However, they have explained that without a letter from Queen¿¿s University or a credit standing, these marks have to be included. I have worked incredibly hard throughout my undergraduate studies to continue my education in an Occupational Therapy Master¿¿s Program. It would be very discouraging to have these marks jeopardize my acceptance into this program.

I recognize that this appeal has been submitted past the 21 days of these marks on my transcript. It has taken considerable time and communication with these schools to determine what my best option would be. I wanted to assure that receiving a credit standing in these courses would not further decrease my chances of being accepted into the program. I also felt that my appeal would be stronger after being able to prove my strong academic capability. The marks I have received in my most recent courses show my potential and dedication as a student.

Please let me know if you have any alternative options. I greatly appreciate your time and consideration in this matter.

Lindsay McFarland
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