Submit an Academic Petition or Appeal

Petition Letter: Dear Dr. Stephenson,

I am a Global Development Studies student entering my third year at Queen’s and am actively exploring the option of studying abroad in the Winter 2025 semester, for which I am writing this Petition. As a Global Development student, studying and living in a new country could provide a wealth of knowledge and experience that would be beneficial to my studies. After much research, I am thrilled about the unique academic environment available at Pompeu Fabra University in Barcelona, Spain and I am writing to request approval to take five (5) courses during my time abroad.

I have researched and plan to take courses that will be a valuable addition to my DEVS major at Queen’s as they directly broaden my understanding of social, economic, and environmental challenges on a global scale. “Barcelona the City and its History”; “Lengua española. Gramática y destrezas escritas (Inicial-A1)”; “The Impact Journey: (Un)Sustainability, Climate Emergency, Authentic Leadership”; “Ageing societies: Social, economic and political consequences”; and “Understanding Globalization: Global issues in Historical Perspective’. These courses are not currently offered at Queen's. I am hoping to take five courses while studying abroad as this will allow me to continue along my plan to graduate in the Spring of 2026 supporting my academic goals.

In lectures and tutorials at Queen’s, I thoroughly enjoy discussing course content with classmates, professors and TAs to better understand others' perspectives and insights. The prospect of participating in dialogues in an international setting promises further broadening of my outlook on current and past global challenges.

Being approved to apply for a Letter of Permission to study abroad and take five courses would not only provide an exceptional academic opportunity but also offer significant personal growth experience beyond the available options at Queen’s.

As a DEVS student, I am required to take language courses toward my degree. Attending Spanish classes in Barcelona would be a fantastic experience, immersing me in the language outside of the lecture hall. The cultural immersion and independence gained from living in a foreign country will significantly contribute to my personal growth, a value that cannot be underestimated.

“Barcelona the City and its History” will give me the fundamental knowledge of historical events and place Barcelona in a broader Spanish and European context. It will provide me with a deeper understanding of the city as I fully immerse myself in the community. I believe that the foundation for addressing global issues is a knowledge of history. This course will help me understand the development of current issues in Barcelona and by extension better appreciate a European world view.

The courses “The Impact Journey: (Un)Sustainability, Climate Emergency, Authentic Leadership”; “Ageing Societies: Social, economic and political consequences”; and Understanding Globalization: Global issues in Historical Perspective” as offered at Pompeu Fabra will offer new perspectives as I learn about social, economic, and environmental issues. These courses, taken in a European setting, will provide me with exceptional experiences that will enhance my understanding of global challenges.

Throughout my research process, I have been drawn to Pompeu Fabra University. I believe the course offerings and community will significantly broaden my learning in Global Development Studies, and I will return to Kingston with renewed passion for my last year at Queen’s.

Thank you for considering my petition. I look forward to hearing from you.

Sincerely,

Zoe Caldwell
20329393