Petition Letter
Sarah Nitert
20277878
April 3rd 2025
Associate Dean, Academic Affairs
Faculty of Arts and Science
Queen's University
Dear Associate Dean,
I am writing to ask for a letter of permission petition (LOP), for approval to take more than the standard limit of 6.0 credits at Athabasca University, as I currently require 9.0 SOCY credits at the 200-level or above. Given my current academic circumstances and significant mental health challenges, there is also a real possibility that I might not successfully complete two courses this semester, necessitating even greater credit flexibility.
Over the past academic year, I have endured detrimental changes to my mental health due to my mental illnesses and physical health as well. I have experienced severe mental health difficulties, which include diagnosed Social Anxiety Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), and Depression. These conditions have severely compromised my academic performance and ability to maintain consistent progress in my courses. The symptoms intensified notably over the past year, profoundly impacting my coursework, attendance, and participation.
As confirmed by my healthcare provider, Dr. Ashley Esdaile Minzatu, I have undergone various treatments and medication regimens; however, none have effectively managed my symptoms thus far. Consequently, I have been referred to a psychiatrist for specialized care, and my appointment is pending (April 9th; I can provide a concrete letter of support after my appointment, if that is needed). Given these unresolved issues, I have been unable to attend classes in person and have been at home trying to get healthy both mentally and physically, necessitating my current petition.
The severity of these circumstances became critical this past semester. As evidenced in the attached communication with my academic advisor and professors, I have proactively sought assistance, engaging with QSAS advisors, healthcare providers, and family support systems. Despite my best efforts, including close consultation with QSAS and ongoing therapy, the challenges remain substantial enough to disrupt my graduation timeline significantly.
To address these academic setbacks effectively, my academic advisor, Heather (an academic advisor at Queens), has recommended courses through Athabasca University that are eligible for transfer to Queen’s. However, due to the severity and persistence of my mental health condition, I now foresee needing to enroll in more than the standard allowed credits. Approval of this request would enable me to continue my studies remotely, ensuring continuity in my academic trajectory without exacerbating my health condition.
In addition, enrolling in directed reading courses online at Queen's, as suggested by Heather, would greatly benefit my mental health and educational progression by providing structured flexibility suited to my current medical circumstances.
I genuinely value my education and am deeply committed to completing my degree at Queen’s. Granting this petition will allow me to progress academically in a manner conducive to recovery and stability.
Thank you sincerely for considering this appeal. Your understanding, compassion, and support during this challenging time are deeply appreciated. Please let me know if additional documentation or discussion is required to support my petition further.
Thanks.
20277878
April 3rd 2025
Associate Dean, Academic Affairs
Faculty of Arts and Science
Queen's University
Dear Associate Dean,
I am writing to ask for a letter of permission petition (LOP), for approval to take more than the standard limit of 6.0 credits at Athabasca University, as I currently require 9.0 SOCY credits at the 200-level or above. Given my current academic circumstances and significant mental health challenges, there is also a real possibility that I might not successfully complete two courses this semester, necessitating even greater credit flexibility.
Over the past academic year, I have endured detrimental changes to my mental health due to my mental illnesses and physical health as well. I have experienced severe mental health difficulties, which include diagnosed Social Anxiety Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), and Depression. These conditions have severely compromised my academic performance and ability to maintain consistent progress in my courses. The symptoms intensified notably over the past year, profoundly impacting my coursework, attendance, and participation.
As confirmed by my healthcare provider, Dr. Ashley Esdaile Minzatu, I have undergone various treatments and medication regimens; however, none have effectively managed my symptoms thus far. Consequently, I have been referred to a psychiatrist for specialized care, and my appointment is pending (April 9th; I can provide a concrete letter of support after my appointment, if that is needed). Given these unresolved issues, I have been unable to attend classes in person and have been at home trying to get healthy both mentally and physically, necessitating my current petition.
The severity of these circumstances became critical this past semester. As evidenced in the attached communication with my academic advisor and professors, I have proactively sought assistance, engaging with QSAS advisors, healthcare providers, and family support systems. Despite my best efforts, including close consultation with QSAS and ongoing therapy, the challenges remain substantial enough to disrupt my graduation timeline significantly.
To address these academic setbacks effectively, my academic advisor, Heather (an academic advisor at Queens), has recommended courses through Athabasca University that are eligible for transfer to Queen’s. However, due to the severity and persistence of my mental health condition, I now foresee needing to enroll in more than the standard allowed credits. Approval of this request would enable me to continue my studies remotely, ensuring continuity in my academic trajectory without exacerbating my health condition.
In addition, enrolling in directed reading courses online at Queen's, as suggested by Heather, would greatly benefit my mental health and educational progression by providing structured flexibility suited to my current medical circumstances.
I genuinely value my education and am deeply committed to completing my degree at Queen’s. Granting this petition will allow me to progress academically in a manner conducive to recovery and stability.
Thank you sincerely for considering this appeal. Your understanding, compassion, and support during this challenging time are deeply appreciated. Please let me know if additional documentation or discussion is required to support my petition further.
Thanks.