Semester Medical Withdrawal

[puppyeyes]

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Hello all,


My university has a petition process for those experiencing medical issues to withdraw from an entire semester...I went through this process. However, on my transcript it does not show medical withdrawal; it simply says I withdrew from all courses that semester "by action of University Senate Student Petitions Committee".

Is is necessary to disclose that medical issues caused me to drop the classes? What would be the most appropriate way to go about doing this? I didn't intend to include my personal medical problems in my applications but now that I see my final transcript, I am fearful that leaving it alone will harm my chances.


Any input appreciated.

 

[LizzyM]

There is always a story behind withdrawing from all classes in a semester. I know two guys IRL who did so, both due to accidents that required hospitalization and multiple surgeries. An adcom may indeed wonder "what's this applicant's story?" Sometimes a LOR from someone who knew you before and after (e.g. your academic advisor or another academic mentor) might include some information in a LOR. Another option is to save space at the end of your PS and separated by a little line to explain your withdrawal. It doesn't have to be fancy or use a lot of technical jargon.
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Additionally, I would like the committee to know that I withdrew in Spring semester 2012 due to a need for surgery to treat severe bowel disease. I was able to return to school in Fall 2012.

 

[DokterMom]

The university's phrasing makes it sound more ominous than "medical leave", so I'd agree than a brief explanation is needed.

 

[puppyeyes]

Thank you LizzyM! I will include a little line at the end.

I thought so, too, DokterMom. I think including the brief explanation is just what I need to do. Thank you.