Submit an Academic Petition or Appeal

Petition Letter: To whom it may concern:

My name is Alexandra Arrizza and I am in my 3rd year of studies here at Queen??s. I am writing to request a late-drop of my courses. I ask this currently due to extreme stress and duress I have been under. This semester, my depression has worsened along with my anxiety. Since February, I have experienced worsening depression, panic attacks and have found it extremely difficult to focus. I have struggled to keep up with course work and thought I could salvage my semester by this time.
At the height of exam period, I find myself shutting down and unable to finish exams or assignments. I took on too much this semester, with a full-time job and part-time job. In the future, I would take a maximum of 3 courses at one time. If I were able to finish these courses, I believe I could. However, due to what I am going through now, I cannot. I know I will have to take on another semester or two, but that is okay, so as long as I can give 100%. Right now, I cannot. I will take the time needed to focus on my mental health and regroup for next semester.

I ask that I may be able to drop my courses so I can focus on getting better and focus on preparing for a lighter course load next semester. If I cannot do that, I fear my mental health will get worse and I will not be able to successfully complete my degree.


Thank you,

Alexandra Arrizza