Submit an Academic Petition or Appeal

Petition Letter: Academic Appeal Request

To Dr. Johanné Bernard and/or Dr. Hugh Horton
Request
I am appealing to have the grades of my entire fall semester course load removed from my student transcript, which includes RELS 237, RELS 217, DRAM 220, FILM 240, and ENGL 100 (online).

Explanation of extenuating circumstances
The reason for my appeal is to have the grades of my Fall courses listed removed from my transcript due to poor academic performance in them. The cause of this is that I was dealing with heavy depression throughout the fall term, and as such it severely limited my ability to attend class and my ability to focus on completing course work and assignments. Initially, I was unaware of the severity of the state of my depression and felt that I could eventually reconcile the situation and pass the semester. Instead, my condition worsened to the point where I not only suffered from depression but also with physical health complications. Eventually, my problems compounded to the point where I could no longer bear continuing on, and I sought help from my classmates and friends, who referred me to the on-campus clinic for depression counselling.
On November 10th, I attempted to seek help from the LaSalle building. Unfortunately, the on-campus clinic was unable to accept me, as they were reportedly booked solid until the month of December for depression counselling. I could not possibly wait any longer, so I reached out for help from my parents and immediately left for home to seek local help and medical assistance. Upon returning home, I sought help immediately from my family doctor, who after examining and assessing my mental and physical health, felt it necessary for me to seek counselling.

Future Plan
Presently, I am seeing a psychological therapist on a weekly basis to help me overcome my depression and other mental health issues. I know that this therapy is important in solving my problems and improving my well-being. With the support of my family, friends and therapist, I am learning to deal with these issues better and improve my mental well-being.
As for my academics, I was originally planning to partake in the Winter 2015 semester, but have decided not to do so as I feel I am not yet able to continue my academic studies. However, I am hoping to re-take the online English 100 course in the spring of 2015 as I feel this is a goal I would like to be able to accomplish. Looking forward, it is my desire to continue my academic career in Arts and Science in the Fall of 2015.