Petition Letter
Dear Associate Dean (Studies),
My name is Ruoling Gao and I am writing to you to appeal for the extension/completion of GNDS 345 (Winter 2017), and for the allowance of 3.0 extra units this semester. In the case of the latter request, should it be granted, I would like to replace GNDS 375/3.0 for GNDS 412/6.0.
The main reason for my requests is due to serious extenuating circumstances regarding my mother¿¿s health. Earlier last year my mom was diagnosed with cancer. Since then, it has been it has been very difficult both physically and emotionally. She has undergone multiple surgeries with complications as well as the effects of chemo. The mortality of your parents is not a topic a person at this age normally considers and it was very difficult for me to talk about. It was very difficult for me to keep up with certain areas of school and to be honest was not in the best state of mind.
The sudden nature of the news and subsequent months affected my ability to complete major assignments within some of my courses resulting in Failure. Therefore, I was put into a situation of being short GNDS credits to graduate in my medial. I recognize that looking on my transcript it may seem unwise to grant an overload request. However, the 21 units is a result of two 400 level GNDS courses being worth 6 units each. Therefore, despite a 3 unit overload, my schedule would still consist of a reasonable 5 classes this term. Additionally, I have since spoken extensively with the genders department regarding my options and have been advised that my proposed course load is still realistically achievable for me.
With regards to the extension and completion of GNDS 345, I have also spoken with the professor of the course. Professor Butler has expressed that she would be more than willing to still accept and mark the missing course work and does not believe it necessary to repeat the entire course, as I was very close to completion. She has also expressed willingness to provide written proof of this should it be requested.
Moving forward, I understand that policies regarding unit limits are in place with student success in mind and to avoid setting themselves up for failure. Therefore, I have extensively considered this course of action and only do so after great personal reflection and consultation with the Gender's department who have been made aware of my situation. I will accept full responsibility for any consequence from an overload; however do truly believe that 21 units will be manageable due to the fact that it will still be a reasonable 5 courses. Furthermore, I have been in contact with the professor of GNDS 412 and have taken initiative to keep up with the readings/syllabus of the course so that should my appeal be approved, I will not be behind.
Thank you for taking the time to read my letter. Although it is not easy for me to speak about my mom, I have had a much better support system now and hope that I have provided adequate information for which to make your decision. If you have any questions, require any additional clarification, or would like to speak in person, I would be very willing to cooperate. Thank you.
Sincerely,
Ruoling Gao
My name is Ruoling Gao and I am writing to you to appeal for the extension/completion of GNDS 345 (Winter 2017), and for the allowance of 3.0 extra units this semester. In the case of the latter request, should it be granted, I would like to replace GNDS 375/3.0 for GNDS 412/6.0.
The main reason for my requests is due to serious extenuating circumstances regarding my mother¿¿s health. Earlier last year my mom was diagnosed with cancer. Since then, it has been it has been very difficult both physically and emotionally. She has undergone multiple surgeries with complications as well as the effects of chemo. The mortality of your parents is not a topic a person at this age normally considers and it was very difficult for me to talk about. It was very difficult for me to keep up with certain areas of school and to be honest was not in the best state of mind.
The sudden nature of the news and subsequent months affected my ability to complete major assignments within some of my courses resulting in Failure. Therefore, I was put into a situation of being short GNDS credits to graduate in my medial. I recognize that looking on my transcript it may seem unwise to grant an overload request. However, the 21 units is a result of two 400 level GNDS courses being worth 6 units each. Therefore, despite a 3 unit overload, my schedule would still consist of a reasonable 5 classes this term. Additionally, I have since spoken extensively with the genders department regarding my options and have been advised that my proposed course load is still realistically achievable for me.
With regards to the extension and completion of GNDS 345, I have also spoken with the professor of the course. Professor Butler has expressed that she would be more than willing to still accept and mark the missing course work and does not believe it necessary to repeat the entire course, as I was very close to completion. She has also expressed willingness to provide written proof of this should it be requested.
Moving forward, I understand that policies regarding unit limits are in place with student success in mind and to avoid setting themselves up for failure. Therefore, I have extensively considered this course of action and only do so after great personal reflection and consultation with the Gender's department who have been made aware of my situation. I will accept full responsibility for any consequence from an overload; however do truly believe that 21 units will be manageable due to the fact that it will still be a reasonable 5 courses. Furthermore, I have been in contact with the professor of GNDS 412 and have taken initiative to keep up with the readings/syllabus of the course so that should my appeal be approved, I will not be behind.
Thank you for taking the time to read my letter. Although it is not easy for me to speak about my mom, I have had a much better support system now and hope that I have provided adequate information for which to make your decision. If you have any questions, require any additional clarification, or would like to speak in person, I would be very willing to cooperate. Thank you.
Sincerely,
Ruoling Gao