Recently, we have learned that Shuyu Li, a valued member of the Berklee NYC student community, received disproportionate disciplinary action due to an administrative oversight in file management for his Producer Sound Pack Assignment in the DNA of Style course (CMSP-660-001). Following a thorough review of Shuyu Li's academic history, workflow documentation, and personal circumstances, we respectfully urge Berklee College of Music to re-examine the handling of this case. Below are our findings:

Official Chronology of Events

On April 7th, Shuyu Li submitted his assignment Producer Sound Pack for the course DNA of Style (CMSP-660-001) in full compliance with the established deadline. On May 5th, he received preliminary feedback from Program Director Merrily James, which indicated a potential academic integrity violation due to alleged incorporation of pre-existing samples from Splice into his submission. A formal review meeting was convened on May 8th at the program director's request. On May 14th, Mr. Li received the official Notice of Academic Dismissal from Berklee College of Music, resulting in the immediate termination of his F-1 status. He is now required to depart the U.S. within an extremely short timeframe due to the revocation of his legal immigration standing.

However, through meticulous research and interview conducted by us student body, it was conclusively determined that:

1. No Intentional Misconduct: Mr. Li utilized Splice samples strictly as reference materials during the creative process, with zero intention of attempting to present third-party content as original work.

2. Technical Oversight: The inadvertent inclusion of reference samples in the final submission folder constituted an administrative error in file organization, not a deliberate breach of academic protocols.

Academic Profile of Shuyu Li

As an accomplished artist, rapper, and music producer, Mr. Li has consistently demonstrated dedication to his craft. His academic commitment is evidenced by：

1. Consistent Academic Excellence

Achieved grades of A- or higher in all Fall 2024 semester courses. (Fall 2024 GPA: 3.960)

2. Faculty-Validated Musical Talent

Original compositions have received positive evaluations from faculty members including Rob Mathes, Liam Read, and Xenia Rubinos.

3. Documented Work Ethic

Maintained good attendance records and submitted 100% of assignments during the disputed semester. 

4. Peer-Attested Diligence and Collegiality

Throughout his studies, Mr. Li has demonstrated unwavering commitment to academic and artistic growth under the direct observation of peer students. Classmates consistently witnessed his rigorous approach to coursework, including late-night practice sessions in the DJ Lab. Beyond his own work, he voluntarily assisted classmates with studio engineering challenges and openly shared his expertise in vocal production and mixing techniques. Moreover, he actively collaborated with fellow hip-hop artists to exchange creative insights, both contributing his own experiences and earnestly seeking feedback to evolve his craft—a testament to his integrity as both a student and a collaborator.

Logical Inference

A student with:

Impeccable academic standing (Fall 2024 GPA: 3.960),

Verified creative competence through faculty feedback,

Zero prior disciplinary history,

has no rational motive to jeopardize academic integrity through intentional misconduct, particularly for an assignment.

Appeal for Equitable Remedy

1. Demonstrated Commitment to Academic Excellence

As a student with verified dedication to scholarly rigor (as evidenced by Fall 2024 GPA: 3.960/4.0 and 100% assignment completion rate), Mr. Li's conduct aligns with Berklee's Core Value: "Sustained intellectual curiosity through ethical creative practice."

2. Collective Advocacy

The undersigned Berklee NYC students formally attest that:

Mr. Li possesses sufficient professional ability and a diligent attitude to complete his studies. He has no intention of violating academic integrity in any way.

3. Humanitarian & Financial Considerations

Tuition Investment: The Li family has contributed tuition fees for the 2024 – 2025 academic year, representing a high percentage of their gross household income.

Visa Implications: Immediate dismissal would trigger 18 U.S.C. §1182(e) visa revocation protocols, causing irreversible career disruption.

Formal Request

We petition for:

1.    Re-evaluation of Shuyu Li's Academic Dismissal

2.     Implementation of Academic Recovery Plan

3.     Probationary continuation of enrollment status