Submit an Academic Petition or Appeal

Petition Letter: Dear the Associate Dean (Studies),

My name is Christine Drouin, and I am a second year student in the Physical and Health Education Honors program. I am writing an academic appeal letter to ask for your support for the request of an Aegrotat estimated grade standing in the following two courses: ANAT 316 and KNPE 227 (Winter, 2015). I suffer from Anorexia Nervosa and depression, which has made it incredibly difficult to concentrate on my studies this year. These extenuating circumstances have had negative effects on my academic performance. I have been affected by this disorder throughout my childhood and teenage years and was clinically diagnosed in the fall of September 2013. Despite my continuous efforts to recover, I am still experiencing many active symptoms that prevent me from focusing and effectively preparing for my exams. My disorder has made me feel physically and mentally drained, making simple tasks nearly impossible to complete. The constant fatigue prevents me from concentrating, making decisions and remembering key concepts. I have strong feelings of worthlessness and guilt with my inability to accomplish my work efficiently like most of my peers. Therefore the thought of having to study and write multiple three-hour exams brings me uncontrollable worry and anxiety. Though I managed to complete all of my assignments and evaluations during the winter semester, it was a challenge and as a result, my grades were not reflective of my true academic ability. At this point in time, my disorder is overcoming my ability to put forth the energy required to study and prepare for my finale exams. Due to these circumstances, I am asking for you to accept my appeal and agree to grant me with an Aegrotat grade standing in ANAT 316 and KNPE 227. The reason I am asking for an Aegrotat grade in these two courses is because these are the courses that require the most application and memorization. I did manage to write KNPE 225 finale exam on Tuesday April 14th 2015 and also finished the term work for my PACT 237 course. In order to deal with my psychological illness, I have been seeing a Social Worker for counseling and treatment since April of 2014, consulted with multiple medical health care professionals and met with Queen¿¿s Health, Counseling and Disability Services for urgent support. I plan to continue therapy sessions and to consistently follow up with my doctor throughout the summer months. Should my appeal be granted, I would be very grateful and make personal adjustments to succeed in my future studies. If the regular appointments with my personal counselor and medical professional have not enabled me to regain good mental health to prepare me for my third year of studies (September 2015), I would certainly make personal academic adjustments. These changes could involve taking a lighter course load or taking the year off in order to get further intensive treatment. These plans will surely help me achieve a more positive mental health, which undoubtedly leads to academic success. I have previously consulted with Melody Monte (an academic advisor for the faculty of Physical and Health Education) and have been granted the approval from professors Ronald Easteal, Trevor King, Robert Bentley and Jeremy Walsh for an Aegrotat grade standing in ANAT 316 and KNPE 225. Thank you in advance for your consideration. Your understanding and support is very much appreciated.

Sincerely,

Christine Drouin