Submit an Academic Petition or Appeal

Petition Letter: If this appeal is approved, I can continue my studies at Queens as a full-time student and meet the course load eligibility for full-time OSAP applicants. Only full-time applicants are assessed for a living allowance through OSAP and this will allow me to focus entirely on my academic commitments rather than balance work and school at the same time. As a distance student I have great flexibility on when I can participate in my coursework and distance learning is an incredible option for students like myself. I am a mother to a 6-year-old and pursuing my degree online gives me the opportunity to reach my academic goals while being a caretaker. I am extremely excited to be starting my journey with Queens this semester. I was previously a distance student at Laurentian university and have just transferred this fall term. I have been through a difficult time in recent years due to being diagnosed with major depressive disorder after the passing of my grandmother. However, I think it's crucial to point out how this has strengthened me and how I have made incredible progress in my recovery since then. After the sudden passing of my grandmother, I have come to understand that life moves fast and it's vital to pursue your ambitions and goals by actively working towards them every single day no matter how challenging circumstances may be. I have completed many sessions of therapy, am not on any medication, had no depressive episodes or needed to be hospitalized since my diagnoses. I have a strong foundation of family and friends who provide me with consistent support. Additionally, I have reached out to the student wellness center when highly stressed and felt reassured that such amazing services are available to Queens students. I am very enthusiastic in completing my degree at Queens and would greatly benefit from approval of this appeals request. I understand that deadlines are in place for a reason, but I respectfully ask you to consider my circumstances when making your decision. Full-time studies is the best option for me to move forward and I would need this course to meet the minimum 9 credits required for full-time OSAP applicants. Thank you kindly for your time and consideration.