Petition Letter
Dear To Whom It M ay Concern,
I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to formally appeal the decision regarding my request for a course overload in my final semester. I understand that the standard maximum course load is 16.0 units, but due to my unique circumstances, I am respectfully requesting approval to take 21.0 units. These additional 3.0-unit courses (three in total) is the only remaining requirement preventing me from completing my degree on time, and I am prepared to take all necessary steps to ensure my academic success.
This past year, I have worked diligently to stay on track for graduation. I previously met with an academic advisor who confirmed that, based on my academic plan, I was set to graduate in Spring 2025. However, unexpected medical challenges this semester forced me to request a compassionate course drop, which was granted by the Dean’s Office due to two serious physical injuries that required surgery. Despite these setbacks, I have remained committed to my coursework, maintained close communication with my professors and teaching assistants, and taken proactive steps to ensure my academic progress was not derailed.
I have already applied to post-graduate programs, including a Master of Teaching program, with the expectation that I would complete my undergraduate degree this term. A delay in graduation would have significant consequences, including postponing my career trajectory and requiring me to take an additional semester for just one course. This would not only be financially and logistically burdensome but would also create unnecessary complications for my graduate school applications.
I have structured my semester carefully to ensure that I can manage the increased workload. My current GPA in my Sociology major is 2.931, which exceeds the 1.9 requirement, and my cumulative GPA continues to improve. Based on my current course schedule and anticipated grades, I am confident that I will maintain strong academic standing. Additionally, I have sought guidance from Michelle Underhill in the Sociology Department, who has thoroughly reviewed my transcript and confirmed that my graduation plan is sound and achievable.
Given my demonstrated commitment to academic success, my ability to handle a full course load, and the substantial personal and professional impact of delaying my graduation, I respectfully ask for your reconsideration of this request. I am fully prepared to handle the additional workload and have selected an elective that aligns with my strengths and interests.
I sincerely appreciate your time and consideration and would be happy to meet with you to further discuss my academic plan. This decision is critical to my ability to graduate as planned and move forward with my post-graduate goals. Thank you for your time, and I look forward to your response.
I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to formally appeal the decision regarding my request for a course overload in my final semester. I understand that the standard maximum course load is 16.0 units, but due to my unique circumstances, I am respectfully requesting approval to take 21.0 units. These additional 3.0-unit courses (three in total) is the only remaining requirement preventing me from completing my degree on time, and I am prepared to take all necessary steps to ensure my academic success.
This past year, I have worked diligently to stay on track for graduation. I previously met with an academic advisor who confirmed that, based on my academic plan, I was set to graduate in Spring 2025. However, unexpected medical challenges this semester forced me to request a compassionate course drop, which was granted by the Dean’s Office due to two serious physical injuries that required surgery. Despite these setbacks, I have remained committed to my coursework, maintained close communication with my professors and teaching assistants, and taken proactive steps to ensure my academic progress was not derailed.
I have already applied to post-graduate programs, including a Master of Teaching program, with the expectation that I would complete my undergraduate degree this term. A delay in graduation would have significant consequences, including postponing my career trajectory and requiring me to take an additional semester for just one course. This would not only be financially and logistically burdensome but would also create unnecessary complications for my graduate school applications.
I have structured my semester carefully to ensure that I can manage the increased workload. My current GPA in my Sociology major is 2.931, which exceeds the 1.9 requirement, and my cumulative GPA continues to improve. Based on my current course schedule and anticipated grades, I am confident that I will maintain strong academic standing. Additionally, I have sought guidance from Michelle Underhill in the Sociology Department, who has thoroughly reviewed my transcript and confirmed that my graduation plan is sound and achievable.
Given my demonstrated commitment to academic success, my ability to handle a full course load, and the substantial personal and professional impact of delaying my graduation, I respectfully ask for your reconsideration of this request. I am fully prepared to handle the additional workload and have selected an elective that aligns with my strengths and interests.
I sincerely appreciate your time and consideration and would be happy to meet with you to further discuss my academic plan. This decision is critical to my ability to graduate as planned and move forward with my post-graduate goals. Thank you for your time, and I look forward to your response.

