Petition Letter
To the Associate Dean,
I am writing to petition to drop ENGL 431 from my Fall 2025 academic record.
I was unable to complete this course to the best of my ability due to a significant mental health issue that arose during the term. During this time, I was diagnosed with Generalized Anxiety Disorder, which became increasingly difficult to manage and began to affect my motivation, concentration, and overall well-being. At the time, I did not yet understand what I was experiencing or how to properly address it.
Although writing is typically a strength for me and something I genuinely enjoy, ENGL 431 felt overwhelming from early on. I struggled to understand the course material, and as the term progressed, I found myself falling further behind. As my anxiety worsened, it became harder to engage with the course or attempt to catch up, which led to avoidance and disengagement. This was not due to a lack of care or effort, but rather the impact my mental health was having on my ability to manage the course demands.
Once I recognized the severity of my situation, I sought help. I have since been meeting with a Queen’s Student Wellness Counsellor, as well as a counsellor at home, and I spoke with my family doctor, who prescribed medication for my anxiety. Since beginning treatment, I have noticed a clear improvement in my ability to manage daily tasks, stay focused, and keep up with my academic responsibilities. I regret that I did not withdraw from the course earlier; however, at the time, my mental health made it difficult to recognize how much I was struggling or to take action.
This term, I have made significant changes to ensure my success. With the support of my counsellor, I have established a consistent routine, including maintaining a healthy sleep schedule, attending and participating in all of my classes, and spending two to three hours studying in the library each day to stay on top of my work. I have also made an effort to connect with my professors and prioritize exercise to support my mental and physical health.
I believe this situation represents an isolated circumstance related to my mental health rather than my academic ability or commitment. With the proper support and treatment now in place, I am confident in my ability to complete my remaining term successfully. I respectfully request that ENGL 431 be removed from my record, as it does not reflect my usual performance or effort as a Queen’s student.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Charlotte Gilmour
I am writing to petition to drop ENGL 431 from my Fall 2025 academic record.
I was unable to complete this course to the best of my ability due to a significant mental health issue that arose during the term. During this time, I was diagnosed with Generalized Anxiety Disorder, which became increasingly difficult to manage and began to affect my motivation, concentration, and overall well-being. At the time, I did not yet understand what I was experiencing or how to properly address it.
Although writing is typically a strength for me and something I genuinely enjoy, ENGL 431 felt overwhelming from early on. I struggled to understand the course material, and as the term progressed, I found myself falling further behind. As my anxiety worsened, it became harder to engage with the course or attempt to catch up, which led to avoidance and disengagement. This was not due to a lack of care or effort, but rather the impact my mental health was having on my ability to manage the course demands.
Once I recognized the severity of my situation, I sought help. I have since been meeting with a Queen’s Student Wellness Counsellor, as well as a counsellor at home, and I spoke with my family doctor, who prescribed medication for my anxiety. Since beginning treatment, I have noticed a clear improvement in my ability to manage daily tasks, stay focused, and keep up with my academic responsibilities. I regret that I did not withdraw from the course earlier; however, at the time, my mental health made it difficult to recognize how much I was struggling or to take action.
This term, I have made significant changes to ensure my success. With the support of my counsellor, I have established a consistent routine, including maintaining a healthy sleep schedule, attending and participating in all of my classes, and spending two to three hours studying in the library each day to stay on top of my work. I have also made an effort to connect with my professors and prioritize exercise to support my mental and physical health.
I believe this situation represents an isolated circumstance related to my mental health rather than my academic ability or commitment. With the proper support and treatment now in place, I am confident in my ability to complete my remaining term successfully. I respectfully request that ENGL 431 be removed from my record, as it does not reflect my usual performance or effort as a Queen’s student.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Charlotte Gilmour