Academic Plan
I am writing to submit an academic plan to support my appeal to withdraw for one year due to my poor grades. I ask that you consider this plan as a demonstration of my commitment and strong desire to turn this situation around and improve my academic standing. I understand that I have not met the universities requirements and I take full responsibility for my current situation. However, I don’t think withdrawing for a year would be beneficial to me. I am committed to overcoming my struggles and reaching my full academic potential. My academic plan to improve my academic standing is as follows:
• One obstacle I faced is dealing with ADHD while being unaware that I had it. With ADHD I have a hard time with focus, organization, forgetfulness, and time management. These symptoms led me to struggle with timed assessments, focusing on lectures and completing tasks. I plan on addressing these issues by being proactive. I have obtained an ADHD diagnosis and I was put on medication which I already see has a positive impact on my productivity. In addition, this diagnosis allows me to request the necessary accommodations from QSAS that will help with some of my struggles.
• I am in the Kinesiology and Health Studies program which I am very interested in, I love the program content and I am intrigued by many of the career options. Though the work can be challenging I do enjoy it and with the appropriate strategies that I am setting in place, I know I am capable of doing the work well. I am also prepared, dedicated, and committed to being a full-time student. I plan on retaking the courses that I have failed, which are mainly second-year classes to be able to be on track to move on to third and fourth-year classes.
• I did not have the best study habits and skills; however, I do understand what is necessary to do well. To not just implement proper strategies but also consistently use them I plan on working closely with my academic advisor whom I already have regular communication, joining study groups and creating open lines of communication with my professors and TAs. I will also do weekly/monthly checkups with myself to make sure I’m on track.
• I am also working on developing essential skills for success. Such as organization and time management by consistently using calendars and planners. Having a plan for the entire academic year before it starts. I am also working on developing strategies to help retain focus and memory such as the Pomodoro technique, changing study locations, reviewing course materials prior to lectures, and discussing content with others.
• I did struggle with the personal circumstances of ADHD and the loss of family members, which impacted my mental health and therefore academics. I plan on staying on top of my health by consistently communicating with the healthcare provider that diagnosed me with ADHD and taking my prescribed medication. I will also closely monitor my mental health and book an appointment with a student wellness advisor if I start to be overwhelmed by any negative mental health symptoms.
• To ensure that my financial situation is good I plan on meeting with a financial advisor.