I need advice on writing a letter of appeals to get back into PA school

[HUPA]

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I am currently in my first year of a 3 year Entry Level Masters PA program. The program has only recently become a Masters Program (Im in the first Masters class!), so the program has been reconfigured (in my opinion we are the guinea pigs). In my second semester I received a poor grade in one class. According to the new rules, a failed course means suspension. Suspension means you must reapply. Reapplication requires the student to write a letter of appeals (and to have a 3.0 GPA). In this letter I must state why I was unsuccessful and what I will do differently. IF I am readmitted (not guaranteed, they say) I will have to retake the course (only offered in one semester, adding a year to my prospected graduation date 🙁

The course was very controversial, meaning it was unorganized and there were issues with the tests given to the students, and there was suspected academic dishonesty (in which I had nothing to do with). At the end of the course I was 3 points away from passing. I excelled in my other 5 courses, I only had trouble with this one course (which isn't a PA departmental course)

But I know I can't place blame on the course/professors in my letter.

I have a good relationship with the program directors and professors. I believe I have a good chance of getting back into the program but I have to write this letter and I am at a lost from where to start, what angle to take, how long should it be (they are very vague with the instructions and I've been waiting for clarification but no one has gotten back to me and every minute counts at the point I need to send something ASAP).

I would appreciate some help please. Has anyone experienced this before or has anyone written and appeals letter?

 

[pamac]

You seem to understand that the most important aspect of your approach is to not blame them. From there, imagine what they want to hear. Even if they know that the course was FUBAR, they won't want to hear that again. Unfortunately, even is only one student passes, the faculty can come to the conclusion it's doable. But anyway, you already grasp that point. What they will want to see is how you handle your "failure" from this point forward. Steer into the slide. Own up to the situation, even though it's a lame one. Be like "I knew the stakes for going forward in this unique program, and for various reasons that I didn't live up to the expectations that were clearly defined for me. I don't want to make excuses, so I won't highlight my frustrations as if anyone is to blame but myself, but I would like for you to know that I have identified the areas where I have shown weakness in this regard, and feel I have a good grasp on where I need to specifically improve. At this point, the question foremost in my mind is how to move forward towards my dream of becoming a PA given this situation I have before me. Exiting the program gives end to my dream and leaves me struggling for an avenue to regain that path. I would clearly want to explore any options possible before taking that route. All I can ask is that my potential as a continuing candidate be evaluated with close attention paid to my desire to regain my footing and exhibit positive growth from this setback. My sincerest hope is to maintain my status as a student in this cohort and make the most of the opportunity I have been given to be blessed with a seat at xxxxxxxx university."

Obviously, retool it a bit to fit your writing style and verbiage, but you see the basic approach here.... Recognition that you didn't meet the standard they set, identification of the items that tripped you up (no need to beat a dead horse with listing where you fouled up specifically and why unless they ask), reminding them that you know how big of an opportunity it is to be in that program, reminding them gently that you are a person who will suffer a severe setback in your goal if you have to leave, making a commitment to move forward, demonstrating maturity.

Good luck.

 

[HUPA]

Perfect. That is a great approach. I really appreciate your help. Thank You!