Academic Plan
Office of the Associate Dean (Academic)
Queen’s University
June 24, 2026
Dear Dr., Naaman,
As a dedicated third-year Life Sciences student at Queen’s University, I am respectfully requesting an exemption from the 6.0-unit regulation for study abroad programs. I believe that an exemption from this rule would strongly allow me to engage in a unique opportunity at the Universitat de Barcelona (UB) to explore interdisciplinary studies to further my major, while allowing me to understand new subjects to complement my personal and academic development.
Courses:
1. Design and Evaluation of Bioactive Molecules
2. Genetic Disorders
3. Applied Immunology
4. European Union Law
5. Criminal Typology
Academic Goals:
My primary goals during a study abroad would be to enhance my global and personal perspectives, develop a strong cultural competence, and explore various disciplines in a unique and meaningful way. Studying at UB would provide me with the opportunity to step out of my comfort zone into a new academic and social environment to engage with alternative perspectives, new experiences, and learning approaches different to what I have previously experienced. I strongly believe that exposure to a culture and educational system unlike my own would allow me to develop diverse viewpoints, while strengthening my ability to adapt to new situations and challenges posed abroad.
Academically, I hope to expand my knowledge by taking courses to support the progression of my degree, while exploring interdisciplinary subjects that compliment my interests in forensic science and law. Through specific courses such as Design and Evaluation of Bioactive Molecules, European Union Law, and Criminal Typology, I am able to explore and engage in areas not traditionally taught at Queen’s University. I not only wish to develop a stronger understanding of how different fields intersect but also strengthen my critical thinking and communication skills through learning in an international academic environment.
Plan for Achieving Academic Success:
To ensure academic success during my study abroad experience, I will continue to maintain the structured study habits and discipline I have developed throughout my time at Queen’s University. I plan to attend all lectures and activities while maintaining a consistent study schedule to ensure academic success. Continuing with my regular habits, I will dedicate a set time each day to review course content and design practice problems to reinforce concepts. To remain organized, I will utilize a digital calendar containing any necessary academic information with the assistance of clear planning to ensure effective time management and overall success. By maintaining discipline, consistent habits, and organizational skills, I am extremely confident in my ability to manage an academic workload, alongside a new environment, to continue to perform successfully.
Academic Resources:
To support my academic success during my study abroad, I will continue to utilize Queen’s University resources such as faculty advisors for guidance on proper planning to ensure success and degree progression. At UB, I will continue to be in contact with faculty heads and study abroad advisors for necessary support and guidance.
By following my academic plan, I am extremely confident that I will be able to excel during a study abroad at UB with the unique experience both contributing to my academic and personal development by broadening my global horizons and cultural perspectives. I greatly appreciate you taking the time to consider my request, and I eagerly await a positive response.
Sincerely,
Julia Simpson
Queen’s University
June 24, 2026
Dear Dr., Naaman,
As a dedicated third-year Life Sciences student at Queen’s University, I am respectfully requesting an exemption from the 6.0-unit regulation for study abroad programs. I believe that an exemption from this rule would strongly allow me to engage in a unique opportunity at the Universitat de Barcelona (UB) to explore interdisciplinary studies to further my major, while allowing me to understand new subjects to complement my personal and academic development.
Courses:
1. Design and Evaluation of Bioactive Molecules
2. Genetic Disorders
3. Applied Immunology
4. European Union Law
5. Criminal Typology
Academic Goals:
My primary goals during a study abroad would be to enhance my global and personal perspectives, develop a strong cultural competence, and explore various disciplines in a unique and meaningful way. Studying at UB would provide me with the opportunity to step out of my comfort zone into a new academic and social environment to engage with alternative perspectives, new experiences, and learning approaches different to what I have previously experienced. I strongly believe that exposure to a culture and educational system unlike my own would allow me to develop diverse viewpoints, while strengthening my ability to adapt to new situations and challenges posed abroad.
Academically, I hope to expand my knowledge by taking courses to support the progression of my degree, while exploring interdisciplinary subjects that compliment my interests in forensic science and law. Through specific courses such as Design and Evaluation of Bioactive Molecules, European Union Law, and Criminal Typology, I am able to explore and engage in areas not traditionally taught at Queen’s University. I not only wish to develop a stronger understanding of how different fields intersect but also strengthen my critical thinking and communication skills through learning in an international academic environment.
Plan for Achieving Academic Success:
To ensure academic success during my study abroad experience, I will continue to maintain the structured study habits and discipline I have developed throughout my time at Queen’s University. I plan to attend all lectures and activities while maintaining a consistent study schedule to ensure academic success. Continuing with my regular habits, I will dedicate a set time each day to review course content and design practice problems to reinforce concepts. To remain organized, I will utilize a digital calendar containing any necessary academic information with the assistance of clear planning to ensure effective time management and overall success. By maintaining discipline, consistent habits, and organizational skills, I am extremely confident in my ability to manage an academic workload, alongside a new environment, to continue to perform successfully.
Academic Resources:
To support my academic success during my study abroad, I will continue to utilize Queen’s University resources such as faculty advisors for guidance on proper planning to ensure success and degree progression. At UB, I will continue to be in contact with faculty heads and study abroad advisors for necessary support and guidance.
By following my academic plan, I am extremely confident that I will be able to excel during a study abroad at UB with the unique experience both contributing to my academic and personal development by broadening my global horizons and cultural perspectives. I greatly appreciate you taking the time to consider my request, and I eagerly await a positive response.
Sincerely,
Julia Simpson