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Petition Letter: Subject: Petition to Take More Than 6.0 Units Abroad on a Letter of Permission

Dear Members of the Academic Petition Committee,

I am writing to formally petition for permission to take more than 6.0 units of courses at another university while participating in an independent study abroad program. This petition is submitted following the Faculty of Arts and Science’s policy that allows students in good academic standing to exceed the 6.0 limit, provided there are extenuating circumstances or exceptional academic opportunities. I am confident that all the universities I am applying to and courses I wish to pursue fall under the latter category, offering a unique educational experience that extends beyond what is currently available to me at Queen’s.

The institutions where I am applying offer unique and internationally oriented Economics and Business-focused curricula that explore the evolution of global markets, trade policies, and the complex relationship between economies and the natural environment. These are critical areas of my education that directly relate to my academic goals and future aspirations. My reason for wanting to exceed the standard 6.0 unit limit is not driven by convenience, but by a sincere desire to make the most of this unique academic opportunity.

As a student deeply committed to academic success, particularly in Economics, Business, Law and Real Estate, the opportunity to study abroad independently presents a truly unique chance to broaden my knowledge in areas not available through the current Queen’s demographic and course offerings. The institutions I am applying for (UC3M in Madrid, UPF in Barcelona, LSE in London) offer specialized, internationally focused coursework that aligns directly with my academic interests and long-term career goals in Business and Real Estate. These courses are taught by faculty experts in global economics, markets and environments, urban planning and international trade – fields that are essential to my future pursuits but are not covered or available to me at Queen’s.

What makes this opportunity academically exceptional is not only the content of the courses, but the international context in which they are delivered. Studying these subjects from a global perspective, surrounded by diverse students and faculty, will provide me with the opportunity to explore new economies and markets I am not yet familiar with, and an immersive educational experience that no domestic course can fully replicate. I will gain firsthand exposure to how urban and economic systems function in different cultural environments – crucial knowledge for anyone hoping to pursue a career in International Business and Real Estate. The opportunity to take these courses at a globally recognized institution with a specialized curriculum is not just advantageous; it is transformative and foundational to the education I am seeking to build.

In addition, the programs I am hoping to pursue abroad emphasize project-based and collaborative learning in class, with many offering case studies, field work, and mandatory laboratories. They combine theory with real-world scenarios, enabling students to engage in applied economics and economic history throughout the courses. These opportunities not only deepen my academic understanding but also my ability to collaborate with students from diverse cultural and academic backgrounds, many of whom are pursuing similar paths in Economics. This international exposure will allow me to build meaningful connections with future economists and entrepreneurs worldwide and deeply contribute to my community beyond Queen’s University.

While I am fully aware of the need to ensure course compatibility for credit transfer, I want to emphasize that the nature of the curriculum abroad is tailored to global, practice-based learning that extends my Queen’s University education rather than replaces it. I have also consulted with my academic advisor to ensure that these courses align with my degree progress and academic plan. I hope to transfer my international credits as part of my APEC plan at Queen’s and complete the 12 units required for “Econ at any level” once accepted through my ILOP. These courses consist of “Economic History”, “Environments and Markets”, “International Trade”, “Financial Market, Credit and Banking”, and “Experimental Economics”. I have developed a clear and focused academic plan and understand the responsibility that comes with taking a higher course load while abroad. I have taken proactive steps in carefully selecting each of my courses for all universities I am applying for, and will continue to meet with academic advisors to ensure my studies at Queen’s are not disrupted but rather enhanced by this experience.

In addition to the academic benefits of independent study abroad, this experience will also contribute to my personal growth and global citizenship. Living and studying abroad will help develop my independence, cultural awareness, and adaptability – traits that are essential in today’s interconnected world, especially for those of us aspiring to work in international fields. The academic intensity and international exposure will prepare me for my final year at Queen’s University, and when applying for an MBA and completing my realtor license.

Thank you very much for considering this petition. I am grateful for the enriching academic experience that Queen’s has already provided me, and I look forward to building on that foundation through this unique and academically valuable study abroad opportunity.

Best,
Lola Beauvais.