Petition Letter
Dear Associate Dean (Studies),
I am appealing the Art and Science Faculty¿¿s decision that I must withdraw from Queen¿¿s for a minimum of one year. Due to unforeseen extenuating circumstances, beyond my control I was unable to successful complete my first year. From the start of the academic year, I became very lethargic and subdued. During this time, my overall health quickly declined and I found myself unable to complete simple daily tasks easily. As the year progressed, my condition worsened and started to take a negative toll on my academic and personal life. I was unable to effectively concentrate on my studies, eat properly, or attend lectures without feeling anxious and uneased. Unusual thoughts of hopelessness and anxiety began to affect my thinking and thought processes. I began to act differently and unlike myself when choosing courses, attending lectures, and communicating with others. Although it was clear that my academics began to suffer heavily, I chose to continue the year till the end as I falsely believed that my well-being would improve, however that was not the case. In addition, I felt too ashamed to voice my concerns about my well-being to others or seek professional help. My ill well-being became so overwhelming that I was forced to drop three courses half-way through the winter semester.
Towards the end of first year, my health once again took a turn for the worse and I acquired medical attention. I visited a GP through the Student Wellness Services on campus, but the doctor was unable to provide me with a correct diagnosis. Afterwards, I visited my family GP and after a series of medical tests, I was properly diagnosed. I am now receiving proper medical care and feel relief of no longer having to shy away from my health concerns. Subsequently, I now feel confident and capable of showing my true potential in my studies. As well, I began my psychotherapy treatment with a certified therapist. I did not submit an extenuating circumstances form to my School during the year as I did not know what was truly wrong with me and thought I would just get better in time. I will attach all medical forms my GP or therapist, once I receive them.
Kasia Kielich
I am appealing the Art and Science Faculty¿¿s decision that I must withdraw from Queen¿¿s for a minimum of one year. Due to unforeseen extenuating circumstances, beyond my control I was unable to successful complete my first year. From the start of the academic year, I became very lethargic and subdued. During this time, my overall health quickly declined and I found myself unable to complete simple daily tasks easily. As the year progressed, my condition worsened and started to take a negative toll on my academic and personal life. I was unable to effectively concentrate on my studies, eat properly, or attend lectures without feeling anxious and uneased. Unusual thoughts of hopelessness and anxiety began to affect my thinking and thought processes. I began to act differently and unlike myself when choosing courses, attending lectures, and communicating with others. Although it was clear that my academics began to suffer heavily, I chose to continue the year till the end as I falsely believed that my well-being would improve, however that was not the case. In addition, I felt too ashamed to voice my concerns about my well-being to others or seek professional help. My ill well-being became so overwhelming that I was forced to drop three courses half-way through the winter semester.
Towards the end of first year, my health once again took a turn for the worse and I acquired medical attention. I visited a GP through the Student Wellness Services on campus, but the doctor was unable to provide me with a correct diagnosis. Afterwards, I visited my family GP and after a series of medical tests, I was properly diagnosed. I am now receiving proper medical care and feel relief of no longer having to shy away from my health concerns. Subsequently, I now feel confident and capable of showing my true potential in my studies. As well, I began my psychotherapy treatment with a certified therapist. I did not submit an extenuating circumstances form to my School during the year as I did not know what was truly wrong with me and thought I would just get better in time. I will attach all medical forms my GP or therapist, once I receive them.
Kasia Kielich