Petition Letter
TO: Associate Dean (Academic) of Arts and Science
TO: Professor Peng Wang, Department of Chemistry, Queen’s University
RE: Formal Academic Appeal for Final Deferral – CHEM 211 (Main Group Chemistry)
Dear Associate Dean (Academic) and Professor Wang,
I am writing to formally appeal for a final deferral of my CHEM 211 Main Group Chemistry examination to the Summer Deferred Exam Period in August 2026. This course was originally scheduled for completion in December 2025; due to severe and ongoing extenuating circumstances, I previously deferred to January 2026 and subsequently to May 2026. I am now seeking this final extension to ensure I can complete the course in a manner that accurately reflects my academic capabilities.
Academic Standing
Despite the personal hardships detailed below, I remain fully committed to my studies in Chemistry. To date, I have demonstrated a strong command of the course material through my performance in the laboratory components, as well as on Assignment #1 and Assignment #2. My success in these areas reflects my dedication to CHEM 211 and my desire to complete the final examination successfully.
Extenuating Circumstances
The necessity for this appeal stems from two primary factors that have significantly impacted my physical safety and cognitive health:
1. Traumatic Physical Assault and Legal Proceedings: I was recently the victim of a physical assault, robbery, and direct threats by two individuals. These individuals are currently facing criminal charges. As documented in the attached court records, the subsequent legal process has been incredibly taxing. This trauma has severely exacerbated a pre-existing disability for which I am registered with Student Wellness Services (SWS).
2. Medical Management and Cognitive Impact: My physician has made a formal medical demand that I transition away from my current medications. These prescriptions have caused significant side effects, specifically impeding my memory and cognitive functions, which are critical for a rigorous course like Main Group Chemistry. I am currently following a doctor-supervised tapering strategy to safely transition to a new treatment plan while avoiding the debilitating effects of withdrawal.
Plan for Future Success
I am taking proactive and necessary steps to stabilize my health and prevent future academic disruptions. I am adhering strictly to my psychiatrist’s medical advice, which includes following the medication tapering schedule and attending all weekly clinical appointments. My goal is to be in full health for the August 2026 exam period.
Physician Support
My attending physician fully supports this appeal and verified that my current cognitive impairments are a direct result of the medication transition and the psychological impact of the assault. They agree that a deferral to August 2026 is medically necessary to allow for the stabilization of my health and cognitive function.
Requests for Academic Resources
In the interim, I kindly request that Professor Wang maintain my access to all academic resources on OnQ. Having continued access to these materials will allow me to review the content as my health improves, ensuring I am prepared for the summer sitting.
Thank you for your time and for considering the profound impact these external events have had on my academic journey. I appreciate your understanding and support during this difficult time.
Sincerely,
Bruno Jospeh Carusi
TO: Professor Peng Wang, Department of Chemistry, Queen’s University
RE: Formal Academic Appeal for Final Deferral – CHEM 211 (Main Group Chemistry)
Dear Associate Dean (Academic) and Professor Wang,
I am writing to formally appeal for a final deferral of my CHEM 211 Main Group Chemistry examination to the Summer Deferred Exam Period in August 2026. This course was originally scheduled for completion in December 2025; due to severe and ongoing extenuating circumstances, I previously deferred to January 2026 and subsequently to May 2026. I am now seeking this final extension to ensure I can complete the course in a manner that accurately reflects my academic capabilities.
Academic Standing
Despite the personal hardships detailed below, I remain fully committed to my studies in Chemistry. To date, I have demonstrated a strong command of the course material through my performance in the laboratory components, as well as on Assignment #1 and Assignment #2. My success in these areas reflects my dedication to CHEM 211 and my desire to complete the final examination successfully.
Extenuating Circumstances
The necessity for this appeal stems from two primary factors that have significantly impacted my physical safety and cognitive health:
1. Traumatic Physical Assault and Legal Proceedings: I was recently the victim of a physical assault, robbery, and direct threats by two individuals. These individuals are currently facing criminal charges. As documented in the attached court records, the subsequent legal process has been incredibly taxing. This trauma has severely exacerbated a pre-existing disability for which I am registered with Student Wellness Services (SWS).
2. Medical Management and Cognitive Impact: My physician has made a formal medical demand that I transition away from my current medications. These prescriptions have caused significant side effects, specifically impeding my memory and cognitive functions, which are critical for a rigorous course like Main Group Chemistry. I am currently following a doctor-supervised tapering strategy to safely transition to a new treatment plan while avoiding the debilitating effects of withdrawal.
Plan for Future Success
I am taking proactive and necessary steps to stabilize my health and prevent future academic disruptions. I am adhering strictly to my psychiatrist’s medical advice, which includes following the medication tapering schedule and attending all weekly clinical appointments. My goal is to be in full health for the August 2026 exam period.
Physician Support
My attending physician fully supports this appeal and verified that my current cognitive impairments are a direct result of the medication transition and the psychological impact of the assault. They agree that a deferral to August 2026 is medically necessary to allow for the stabilization of my health and cognitive function.
Requests for Academic Resources
In the interim, I kindly request that Professor Wang maintain my access to all academic resources on OnQ. Having continued access to these materials will allow me to review the content as my health improves, ensuring I am prepared for the summer sitting.
Thank you for your time and for considering the profound impact these external events have had on my academic journey. I appreciate your understanding and support during this difficult time.
Sincerely,
Bruno Jospeh Carusi