Submit an Academic Petition or Appeal

Petition Letter: Dear Associate Dean,

I am appealing to drop two courses this summer semester, May to June 2020. These courses are CHEM 281 and CISC 101. I have undergone an extenuating circumstance beyond my control that has greatly impacted my ability to succeed academically. I have had an ongoing struggle with mental health which has been unbearable in the last couple months.

My pursuit for mental wellness began in November, 2019 where I visited the Arts & Sciences counsellor to discuss my inability to focus on schoolwork due to overwhelming anxious thoughts. Until January, 2020 I had seen a therapist in Kingston and used the online service TAO to better my mental health. March and April were very difficult for me to focus on schoolwork, as I was adjusting to a lack of social interaction and isolation in quarantine. After enrolling in the two courses, May was a new low for me. Due to relationship pressures and overwhelming anxiety, I was unable to focus on schoolwork because my mind was preoccupied with worry, I was emotionally exhausted and could not bring myself to complete any studying. This took a toll on my physical health as well - I suffered from insomnia, loss of appetite, trouble breathing, irritated skin and panic attacks (which I have never experienced in my life). In June, symptoms were slowly calming down but are still present. Once I began to improve, it had already been too late to redeem myself academically as I had missed too much work and assignments. The fear of failing more courses than I already have is worsening my anxiety and anything to prevent that from lowering my GPA any more would ease my worries.

I have already begun with my path to mental wellness. Recently, I had a medical appointment to seek treatment. I will be visiting a therapist regularly and maintaining a healthy routine. If my appeal is to be granted, I have created a plan for academic success. My first step is to request a change in major; from Environmental Biology to Environmental Science. I have been having difficulty with the Biology portion of my degree, and believe that I will benefit due to my strength and passion for other areas of my program. Secondly, I would like to take CISC 101 again during the Fall semester as I had found that course very interesting and would like to complete it at a more appropriate time. Lastly, I will be taking a lighter course load until my mental health improves and I have established solid study habits.

Thank you for taking the time to consider my appeal.