QUEEN’S Engineering Experience International Details of Activities Timetable Campus Map About Kingston How to apply Contact information
Welcome to Queen’s University Queen’s University is consistently ranked as one of Canada’s top universities. It is among Canada’s oldest degree-granting institutions, established in 1841 by Royal Charter of Queen Victoria—26 years before Canada was founded as a country.
What the University Rankings say The Globe and Mail Canadian University Report, 2012 A+ Quality of teaching and learning A+ Reputation with employers
Today, the Queen’s University community features tradition, academic excellence, research, and a beautiful waterfront campus with limestone buildings and modern facilities. Queen’s students come from across Canada and more than 90 countries worldwide. Located in Kingston, Ontario, Queen’s is a mid-sized, research-intensive university organized into ten undergraduate, graduate and professional faculties and schools.
A+ Buildings and facilities A+ Recreation and athletics Maclean’s magazine, 2012 Queen’s earned top marks in a number of categories, ranking first in Canada for: n the
number of faculty members winning national awards
n holdings n the
per student in the library, and
overall operating expenditures devoted to student services.
Quick Reference Guide and Contact Information Catherine Gurnsey Email: reception@appsci.queensu.ca Tel: 613-533-2055
http://engineering.queensu.ca Queen’s Engineering Experience International 45 Union Street, Kingston, Ontario, Canada K7L 3N6
CONTENTS 1
Message from Associate Dean International Scott Yam
3 Modern Research Facilities and Labs 5
Sample Schedule How to Apply
7
Campus Map
9
Kingston: a great place to study— and to explore!
11
Other Key Destinations—A Tale of Three Cities Traveling to and from Kingston
12
un Outside the Classroom F Student Activities
13 General Information 15 Frequently Asked Questions
Message from Associate Dean International Scott Yam Welcome to a Canadian engineering experience Kingston comes with a distinguished resume. The first Canadian capital, Thousand Island fall colours: are just a few impressions. It is the home of two universities, one community college and two teaching hospitals, and boasts one of the highest concentrations of doctorate holders per capita in Canada. It also hosts one of the top engineering faculties in the country. For over 170 years, Queen’s University has been a student-centric, research-intensive institution, with a proud tradition of active alumni support from across Canada and the world. Over the last 25 years, the university summer experience program has reached out to thousands of high school Canadian students (grade 9-12), and we are pleased to extend the same invitation to international students around the world, who might be curious in engineering, Canada, or both. During a period from two to four weeks, you are invited to fully experience the best of Queen’s Engineeing and Kingston. Daily academic activities include optional English training and Engineering instruction in some of the latest topics in technologies and how they impact the world. Students will have an opportunity to participate in practical training activities in cutting-edge research facilities and laboratories. This will be followed by recreational and cultural activities that showcase Canadian living. Strategically located between the metropolitan areas of Toronto, Ottawa and Montreal, Kingston is small enough to celebrate the authentic Canadian experience, but close enough to the pulses of the world. A vibrant community of artists and musicians thrive in the city, along with shops, restaurants and cafes, not to mention some of the best fresh water sailing in North America. This brochure highlights Kingston’s history and tradition, and showcases the leading research facilities. Please go through the information closely, and decide on the academic and social activities that pique your interests, as well as the accommodation arrangement. We look forward to sharing our Canadian engineering experience with you!
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Welcome to the Queen’s Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science Since 1894, the Faculty has been providing the best engineering education Canada has to offer, preparing students for leadership in a global society with top-quality, technically rigorous engineering programs. Queen’s Engineering admits less than 700 of the highest-calibre undergraduate students from Canada and abroad each year. Ninety-one per cent of Engineering’s undergraduate students complete their degrees—the highest success rate of any engineering program in Canada. Graduates leave Queen’s with an outstanding, committed alumni network that will sustain them throughout their careers. Queen’s Engineering offers state-of-the-art modernity, built on historic foundations. This is reflected in two key student facilities: Beamish-Munro Hall and the Engineering and Science library.
n
oused in Beamish-Munro Hall, the Integrated H
n
he Engineering and Science Library is housed T
Learning Centre, Engineering’s award-winning
in Douglas Library, a beautiful limestone
multidisciplinary undergraduate facility, opened
landmark, and the oldest of Queen’s libraries.
in 2004. In this “live building,” mechanical,
On the library’s top floor, an old-fashioned room
electrical, and structural systems are monitored
with vaulted ceilings and a beautiful stained
in real-time and online, so students can see how
glass window is known campus-wide as a
sustainable practices can be incorporated into
wonderful place to study.
building design.
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Modern Research Facilities and Labs The Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science at Queen’s University advances science with its own
Human Mobility Research Centre
collaborative research, supported by a number of well-equipped, modern research laboratories and facilities. The Centre for Energy and Power Electronics Research
The Centre for Energy and Power Electronics Research (ePower) ePOWER brings together academic and industrial researchers to develop applications and expertise, from power transmission to alternative energy, power consumption, and power applicationspecific integrated circuits. ePOWER is centred at Queen’s University’s Communication Power Laboratory and the Energy and Power Electronics Applied Research Laboratory (ePEARL), with modern, state-of-the-art facilities co-located on the first floor of Walter Light Hall.
Human Mobility Research Centre The Human Mobility Research Centre provides research space and services for clinicians, orthopedic surgeons, university faculty, students, and industry partners. The Centre is located at Kingston General Hospital and Hotel Dieu Hospital, and includes specialized, state-of-the-art labs for connective tissue bio-stimulation, tissue processing, software development, gait analysis, and prosthesis design.
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Queen’s-RMC Fuel Cell Research Centre
Queen’s-RMC Fuel Cell Research Centre
commercialization. Working in an 8,000-square-foot,
The Queen’s-RMC Fuel Cell Research Centre
state-of-the-art lab, GreenCentre scientists develop
(FCRC) is Canada’s leading university-based
practical and sustainable solutions to advance green
research and development organization in
chemistry technologies.
partnership with industry, dedicated to addressing Mining Explosives Laboratory
technology challenges around the commercialization of fuel cells.
Mining Explosives Laboratory Queen’s is the only university in Canada with a well-equipped Explosives Test Facility, located 50 kilometres north of Kingston. The facility includes a bunker with an ultra-high-speed streak and framing camera, digital oscilloscopes and data acquisition systems, and two blasting chambers for the study of dust explosions and detonation products.
Water Research Centre
Water Research Centre The Water Research Centre is an inter-disciplinary research group committed to fostering an environment that encourages collaborative research, spanning both traditional water-related disciplines as well as non-traditional and emerging disciplines.
GreenCentre Canada GreenCentre’s mandate is “changing chemistry, changing the world.” With a spirit of innovation, its
GreenCentre Canada
technical team exemplifies a “hands on” approach to 4
Sample Schedule Here is a sample of a what a two-week experience could look like . Please go through the section on the academic offerings and student activities to tailor your program. We strive to offer the programming closest to your choice, but reserve the right to make the final schedule based on staff availability and enrollment interest.
Week 1 Schedule Time
Sunday (Arrival)
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
7-8 am
Rise & Shine
Rise & Shine
Rise & Shine
Rise & Shine
Rise & Shine
Rise & Shine
8-9 am
Breakfast
Breakfast
Breakfast
Breakfast
Breakfast
Breakfast
9am12pm
ESL skill: I: verbs II: verbs & prepositions
ESL skill: I: verbs II: verbs & prepositions
ESL: Sailing vocabulary and imperative tense
ESL: Reading Strategies
ESL: Listening skills
Trip to Ottawa
12-1pm
Lunch
Lunch
Lunch
Lunch
Lunch
Team building and intercultural skills
Engineering focus: propulsion
Engineering focus: green chemistry and alternative energy
Engineering focus: automation and robot design
(Lesson held in Coastal Engineering lab) Engineering focus: wave action and coastal stabilization
1-3 pm
3-6 pm
Arrival
Scavenger hunt through , Queen s campus - seeking Engineering features and places of interest for students
Thousand Island Boat Cruise on a paddle-wheel boat. Includes tour of the bridge.
Sailing in Lake Ontario
Cycling trip and picnic on Wolfe Island
Visit Sandbanks beach - view coastal stabilization in real life and enjoy the beach
6-7 pm
Dinner
Dinner
Dinner
Dinner
Dinner
Dinner
Dinner
7-9 pm
Icebreakers and assessment
Soccer, softball or ultimate frisbee
Swim at , Queen s Centre pool
Games night
Outdoor movie downtown
Shopping downtown
910 pm
Bedtime
Bedtime
Bedtime
Bedtime
Bedtime
Bedtime
Bedtime
How to apply Please email reception@appsci.queensu.ca or work with your education service provider. There will be a choice of academic and social activities, but we reserve the right to the final schedule based on staff availability and enrollment interest. Please indicate the duration of your duration choice (two to four weeks), and whether you will be requiring English training. The pricing information will be provided once the program is finalized. 5
Week 2 Schedule Time
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
7-8 am
Rise & Shine
Rise & Shine
Rise & Shine
Rise & Shine
Rise & Shine
Rise & Shine
8-9 am
Breakfast
Breakfast
Breakfast
Breakfast
Breakfast
Breakfast
9am12pm
Elbow Lake camping trip
ESL: following written instructions
ESL skill: I: verbs II: verbs & prepositions
ESL: Conversation skillse
ESL: Conversation skills
ESL: Presentation skills
Packing
12-1pm
Lunch
Lunch
Lunch
Lunch
Lunch
Leaving for airport
(Lesson held in SparQ Lab) Engineering focus: building electronic devices
Engineering focus: computer secutrity
(Lesson held at LIMB) Engineering focus: Biomechanics of humans vs. quadrapeds
(Lesson held at EQUIS lab) Engineering focus: computer gaming
Engineering design challenge
1-3 pm
3-6 pm
Visit to Pump House Museum
Visit to Penitentary museum
Horeseback riding
Rock climbing
Golf
6-7 pm
Dinner
Dinner
Dinner
Dinner
Dinner
Dinner
Karaoke
Fort Henry Sunset
Bowling
Laser tag
Wrap-up BBQ with all staff
Bedtime
Bedtime
Bedtime
Bedtime
Bedtime
7-9 pm 910 pm
Bedtime
Academic offerings Academic activities (choose 10)
Recreational activities in Kingston (choose 10)
Electrical and Computer Engineering
Scavenger hunt through Queen’s campus - seeking Engineering features and places of interest for students Thousand Island Boat Cruise on a paddle-wheel boat. Includes tour of the bridge. Sailing in Lake Ontario Cycling trip and picnic on Wolfe Island Visit Sandbanks beach - view coastal stabilization in real life and enjoy the beach Visit to Pump House Museum Visit to Penitentiary museum Horseback riding Rock climbing Golf Haunted Walk of Kingston Agnes Art Centre Museum of Health Care City Hall tours City tour (Market, shops, lakefront stroll) Cooking School Pottery Fencing Quidditch Dance
Computer gaming, a bigger industry than Hollywood? Computer security, hackers beware! Building electronic devices Optical fiber communication, internet at the speed of light
Mechanical Engineering
Biomechanics of humans Propulsion and aerodynamics: rockets, planes, submarines Engineering focus: robot design
Mining Engineering
Explosion Lab, playing with fire Green building engineering Automation in mining industry
Civil Engineering
Wave action and coastal stabilization Fresh water supply monitoring and conservation Infrascture integrity monitoring: bridges, roads
Chemical Engineering
Green chemistry and alternative energy Fuel cell state-of-the-art Polymer: petroleum, more than just fuel
Weekend excursion (choose 1)
Weekend getaway to Ottawa for a tour of the Canada’s capital Cabin camping at Elbow Lake Weekend getaway to Montreal: French Canadian Experience Weekend getaway to Toronto: Shopping and Multicultural Neighbourhood
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THE QUEEN’S UNIVERSITY CAMPUS
Queen’s University campus is beautiful and historic. It is relatively small so that getting from one class to another is easy to do. Queen’s consists of two campus areas—see Map 1 and Map 2. The first year residences, the engineering buildings, and other locations of interest to Engineering students are identified in the legends.
MAP LEGEND Map 1: Residences: 70 Adelaide Hall 69 Ban Righ Hall 12 John Deutsch University Centre Residences 75 Gordon-Brockington Hall 60 Leonard Hall 77 Leggett Hall 61 McNeill House 76 Morris Hall 46 Victoria Hall 95 Waldron Tower 62 Watts Hall Lecture Theatre and Laboratory Locations: 16 Beamish-Munro Hall - Integrated Learning Centre (BMH) 35 Ellis Hall (Ellis AUD) 51 Jeffery Hall 66 Stirling Hall (Stirling AUD) 64 Chernoff Hall (Chernoff AUD) 83 Etherington Hall (Etherington AUD) 57 Biosciences Complex Auditorium 30 Miller Hall 15 Dupuis Hall (Dupuis AUD)
Check out the Queen’s Campus App! Download the app “Campus Walk” to your iPhone or iPad—it’s a great campus navigation tool! 7
Other Buildings of Interest: 6 Athletics and Recreation Centre (ARC) 15 Chemical Engineering/Engineering Chemistry Main Office 35 Civil Engineering Main Office 26 Douglas Library 18 Electrical and Computer Engineering Main Office 66 Engineering Physics Main Office 30 Geological Engineering 11 Joseph S. Stauffer Library 51 Mathematics & Engineering Main Office 82 Mechanical and Materials Engineering Main Office 17 The Robert M. Buchan Department of Mining Main Office 27 University Registrar’s Office
Map 2: Residences: 105 Jean Royce Hall (105a, 105b) 104 John Orr Tower Other Buildings of Interest: 102 Coastal Engineering Lab (Civil Engineering)
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Kingston: a great place to study— and to explore! Queen’s University is an ideal starting point for students who want to explore Kingston’s historical treasures, natural attractions, charming downtown area, and more.
Crowds take in the sights and sounds of a reenactment at historic Fort Henry
Twenty-one National Historic Sites of Canada are Sir John A. Macdonald
located in Kingston, including Fort Henry, built during the War of 1812 to protect Kingston from
Kingston was chosen as the first capital of Canada on
potential attacks from the United States.
February 15, 1841, and served in that role until 1844,
9
when the capital was moved to Ottawa.
The city’s setting is appealing to visitors and residents
Known as the “Limestone City,” Kingston boasts
alike, located on three bodies of water. Kingston sits
many grand old buildings constructed from local
on the shore of Lake Ontario, where visitors can enjoy
limestone, including City Hall and the Frontenac
blue waters and skies along lakeside paths, or rent
County Court House, which was originally intended
sailboats and kayaks. It’s also at the inlet of the St.
to house Canada’s Parliament. Kingston was also the
Lawrence River, and a departure point for boat cruises
home of Canada’s first Prime Minister, Sir John A.
to Thousand Islands National Park. The Rideau
Macdonald, whose many triumphs included uniting
Canal, a UNESCO-designated World Heritage site,
Atlantic and Pacific with a railway across the nation.
also begins in Kingston.
McAdoo’s Lane
2
Kingston Mills Rd.
To reach Kingston’s downtown, students can either wander along the lake,Owhich marks the southern border of campus, or stroll through a beautiful historic neighbourhood. The heart of
JOHN COUNTER BLVD.
downtown is the city’s lively market square, just behind City Hall, where farmers offer local food, vendors sell jewelry, flowers and antiques, and shops and restaurants line the surrounding streets. Rideau Canal System to Ottawa
der Fre
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ick
BROCK ST. DOCK
Dr.
Cataraqui River
Lake Ontario
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Other Key Destinations— A Tale of Three Cities Kingston is a central point for exploring three mustsee Canadian cities: Toronto, Montreal, and Ottawa.
Toronto is Canada’s largest city, capital of the province of Ontario. Attractions include the CN Tower, the tallest free-standing structure in the Western hemisphere; a lively performing arts scene; the Art Gallery of Ontario; and the Royal Ontario Museum.
Montreal is Canada’s second-largest city, located culture; summer music festivals; the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts; historic Old Montreal; and the view from the top of Mont Royale at night.
Ottawa is Canada’s capital and sixth-largest city,
© Daniel Matte
in the province of Quebec. It’s renowned for French
where visitors can explore history on Parliament Hill, the seat of Canada’s federal government and the setting for national celebrations all year round. Other popular stops are the National Gallery of Canada and the Museum of Civilization. PHOTOS: TOP: Test your nerves at Toronto’s CN Tower CENTRE: Stroll the streets of Montreal BOTTOM: Tour Ottawa’s Parliament Hill
Traveling to and from Kingston By Train
By Bus
Kingston lies on the main railway line between
From campus to the local bus station is about a
Montreal and Toronto, and Ottawa and Toronto, so
20-minute bus ride, or a 10-minute taxi ride.
Canada’s Via Rail service is a fast and easy way to travel.
By Car Kingston lies about halfway between Toronto and
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By Air
Montreal along Highway 401. By car, Kingston is
Kingston has a small local airport, with several
about 2.5 hours from each of these cities, or about 1.5
flights a day to and from Toronto.
hours from Ottawa.
Fun Outside the Classroom: Student Activities Extra-curriculars during the week After dinner each evening, students have a wide variety of exciting activities to choose from. On campus, they may decide to take a lesson in fencing; go star-gazing and learn about astronomy at the Queen’s Observatory; or even take part in a modified game of Quidditch, the famous fictional sport of wizards, in the park. Off-campus activities might include learning to cook, making pottery, playing laser tag, or taking a tour. Popular tours include City Hall, which has the largest known portrait of Sir John A. Macdonald, Canada’s first prime minister, and stained-glass windows that depict the many of battles of the First World War; the Museum of Health Care; and Kingston’s famous haunted walk, which features tales and ghost stories from Kingston’s past.
Weekend get-aways
show at night on Parliament Hill; a walk beside the Rideau Canal, which commences 202 kilometres
On weekends, students will participate in various
away in Kingston; and a trip to the colourful
guided excursions, such as a visit to Ottawa,
Byward market.
Canada’s national capital, or a trip to the forest to learn about the region’s flora and fauna.
“Nature Nearby” features a trip to the Queen’s University Biological Station, one of the top scientific
“Ottawa: the Capital Experience,” depending on
field stations in North America, or a similar facility.
students’ interests, might include the Parliament
Guided hikes, swimming, camping, leadership
buildings; the Museum of Civilization; a light
games, geo-caching, learning about plants and animals, and paddling a canoe like a Canadian are the kinds of activities students can expect.
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General information ACCOMMODATION All accommodation is centrally located on Queen’s campus which has secured access for all guests. There will be gender specific sections for added privacy/safety as well as private bathroom facilities for each floor. Access to phones and internet (with own computer) will be provided in each residence room. Live in residence chaperones will be present at all times, for added safety and security. Queen’s Engineering Experience International is not responsible for any theft of, loss or damage to property belonging to Queen’s University. The cost for this damage will be the responsibility of the participant and their parent/guardian.
MEALS Breakfast, lunch and dinner are provided each day. Meals are professionally catered by Queen’s Food Services; however there will be a selection of meals prepared by local restaurants. All meals are prepared with proper nutrition as a priority. If the student has an off-campus activity, lunches are prepared in advance and distributed during lunch break to each participant. It is essential that participants with food allergies have their parent(s) or guardian provide clear details of any food allergies. Queen’s Engineering Experience International does not guarantee a ‘nut free’ menu.
CLASSROOM PROGRAM We are pleased to offer several options for the morning classroom sessions: n English n Pulses
as a Second Language Program
of Engineering Program
Students registering in the Pulses of Engineering program should have a strong grasp of English, as the focus of the classes will be not be on language skills. The ESL program consists of morning classroom instruction for three hours/day. All classes will be taught by certified teachers who teach regularly in Ontario’s education system. The maximum student teacher ratio of 15:1 allows for more teacher and 13
student interaction. All learning materials will be provided. Teachers may also plan instructional extension, such as nightly conversation and journal writing, adding to the learning strategy as well as their daily experience. This combination increases their immersion into the English language in a whole and meaningful way. Queen’s Engineering Experience International is operated by staff hired by Queen’s University Human Resources in affiliation with Queen’s Enrichment Studies. Our instructors are selected based on their certifications, knowledge, enthusiasm and patience. Staff members are selected based on a passion for creating the best experience possible for our international guests. Queen’s Engineering has a long history of working with youth to inspire and educate them about the exciting field of engineering. Its Science Quest program recently celebrated 25 successful years, and over 5000 creative minds having enjoyed our program. We understand the needs of young people and we work hard to ensure that every child has a beneficial, safe and enjoyable experience at our QEEIs. You will be pleased to note that all staff are required to undergo a criminal record check and basic first aid training. Also, a chaperone who is certified in first aid and familiar with the city and area will be with the group 24 hours per day. These chaperones are usually upper year, mature university students. This informal relationship allows QEEI participants to feel free to ask informal questions and learn about student life through the eyes of a Queen’s University student.
MEDICAL INSURANCE Queen’s Engineering Experience International will provide short term medical coverage for international students, included in the cost of the QEEI. This insurance covers the costs of immediate medical attention during a student’s stay at the QEEI. Insurance begins from the date and time that a student arrives in Canada, and ends after 30 days. If a student plans to remain in the country, or travels elsewhere after their participation in our program, we recommend that the parent(s) or guardian purchase a separate travel insurance policy for any extended stay or travel in Canada.
Participants will spend their afternoons and evenings participating in various exciting and unique cultural experiences. Students will then have an opportunity to practice their skills they have learned in the classroom. Check out our list of activities which our guest may participate in over the course of their stay at Queen’s University. *NOTE: Although we try to create activities that are fun, rewarding, and above all, safe, some risk is involved in some activities, even when they are safely managed. Clear details regarding the nature of our program and its potential risks follow. Careful considerations are made with respect to group sizes, staff / student ratios, instructor qualifications, activities undertaken, equipment used, sites selected, and in-depth instructor decision making. Some of the risks include factors ranging from accidental and environmental (weather, terrain, animals, etc.) to human actions by way of failure to observe safety rules. It is important that parents understand the types of activities we will be participating in and acknowledge the risks associated with these activities. If you have questions or concerns with anything, please do not hesitate to contact us for clarification. The final decision rests with you. Never feel any pressure to enroll or consent to anything you feel unsure of for your child. You have a choice and it is acceptable for you not to offer consent for any of our planned activities.
Cycling Bicycles and helmets will be rented for each student, ensuring adequate fit. All equipment will adhere to the safety standards of the rental company. All students must wear helmets while on bikes, and follow the safety instructions of the leaders. In particular, students must stay between group leaders on trails or roads. Non‐riders will be provided with a tandem bike.
Swimming Participants will take a swim test (25m) to be able to swim without a Personal flotation device (life jacket). All swimming will be in the presence of qualified lifeguards at the Queen’s University Recreation Center’s indoor pool.
Child behaviour while at QEEI Because of the number of participants, QEEI students are expected to be respectful and considerate towards others, including instructors, and fellow students and any others involved in activities. Students are expected and required to follow the directions of all instructors. Clear guidelines will be provided. If students are unsure or need further clarification, they should talk with an instructor. If there is a breach in the code of conduct, instructors will discuss the issue with the participants and/or their parents. In the event that the student continues to breach rules and guidelines laid out by the instructors, arrangements may be made to send the student home. If a student’s behavior is considered to threaten the safety of the instructors, other participants, or themselves, arrangements will be made to send the student home at the expense of the parent(s) or guardian. Arrangements will be made to send students home if they break Canadian federal, provincial or local government laws. Examples include but are not limited to, consumption of alcohol if under 19 years of age, controlled substances, possession of illegal weapons, or acts of violence.
Personal Items/Equipment All students are required to bring comfortable walking shoes and a rain jacket. While summer in Kingston is normally warm, our programs operate regardless of weather, so it is important to be prepared. We encourage participants to refrain from bringing items of great value with them, as QEEI cannot be held responsible for items lost, damaged or stolen. In the case that specialized equipment is required for participation in a given activity, QEEI will be responsible for the rental of equipment. Participants are not required to provide their own. 14
Frequently Asked Questions General Questions As part of the daily activities, will students take offcampus excursions?
student. As per Queen’s Pulses of Engineering policy
As part of their cultural experience, students will
during any QEEI class or activity time (this includes
be escorted by their QEEI counsellors who have
phone conversations, text messaging, and mobile
been professionally trained and are knowledgeable
browsing). It is important that parents discuss these
in all aspects of the activity planned, on the
rules with their child before arrival at QEEI.
scheduled day. Although course tuition, accommodation, food, and
Are there internet-ready connections available in residence rooms?
local transportation are included in the package
All residence rooms are supplied with high-speed
price, spending money for items such as souvenirs
internet services. Wi Fi is located in many areas
are recommended. It is recommended that parents
around Queen’s University; however, in some
or guardians of the student familiarize themselves
residence rooms, ethernet connection is the only
with Canadian Dollar exchange rates.
connection to the internet. If your child is bringing
What about airport transfers to and from Queens University?
his/her laptop, an ethernet cable is recommended.
Airport transfers are offered as a complimentary
Are there banks or ATM machines nearby in case they need some spending money?
service between Pearson International Airport and
Almost all major Canadian banks are available
Queen’s University in Kingston. Airport pick-up
on or near campus. Remember that there may be
and drop-off is pre-planned and included in your
charges for inter- financial institutional transactions
itinerary. In case of flight delays, late arrivals, etc.
for services offered outside of your own bank.
outside of the scheduled pick-up or drop-off time,
These charges may include ATM service charges,
parents will be responsible for additional fees
money conversion rates, wire transfer charges etc.
for private transportation to and from Queen’s
We also recommend that you explain how financial
University. We attempt to always maintain close
responsibility is also a part of your child’s learning
contact with parents to assure a safe, secure and
experience by providing them with a daily budget.
enjoyable experience while participating in our
Limiting your child’s daily spending also provides
Queen’s Engineering Experience International.
security so they are not carrying extra money that
Are there phones available for my child to use?
may be lost or stolen.
There are telephones available for your child to use
Will I be able to accompany my child to QEEI?
while at Queen’s University. Your child must have
We do not allow parents to participate in our
a calling card, phone card, or be able to call collect.
program with their child as this goes against
Pay phones are available and situated throughout
our philosophy. It is unfair to other participants
the campus. As there are time differences between
and disrupts the flow of the program. If a parent
countries, it is important that you plan with your
wishes to stay at Queen’s University residences
child how and what time will be best for him or her
or another type of accommodation in the city of
to call you.
Kingston, we may be able to help, however you
If I send a cell-phone with my child will that be a problem?
will not be in the same residence as your child,
Sending along a cell-phone is never a problem unless
program classes or excursions.
it is lost, broken or becomes a distraction to the 15
the use of cell-phones is discouraged, especially
and they will not be permitted to attend any of the
APPLICATION Questions Will my child need to obtain a travel visa in order to take part in QEEI?
and Immigration Website:
Depending on what country you are from, you may
have a copy of his/her birth certificate as well as
or may not need a VISA and/or custodianship to come to Canada. You can find out exactly what your requirements by visiting this website. http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/visit/visas.asp
“If the child is travelling alone, the child should a letter of authorization, preferably in English or French, signed by both parents or by his/her legal guardian. The letter of authorization should give the parents’ (or legal guardians) address (es) and
Will my child need to have a notarized letter from their legal guardians to travel alone if they are under the age of 18?
telephone number(s). It should also include the
According to the Government of Canada’s Citizen
http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/visit/arriving.asp
name, address and telephone number of the adult who will be responsible for the child in Canada.”
SAFETY QUESTIONS What happens if my child becomes homesick?
students focus on the fun they are having and the
Because homesickness is a very natural and
sports and activities they are enjoying. This usually
common occurrence, even with adults, our staff
alleviates these feeling of being disconnected from
are aware and trained to deal with these issues in a
their family and friends at home.
caring and compassionate manner. We have found
Is my child allowed visitors during their QEEI session?
that homesickness is most prevalent at the beginning of the week and usually subsides in a few days. Our participants are not encouraged to call home unless parents have notified us otherwise. Our team helps
Although we realize your child may feel more comfortable having someone familiar close at hand it is also important that the learning experience be the primary focus. If there are family, friends 16
Frequently Asked Questions... continued or relatives staying in town at the same time, we
trained in first-aid and CPR (Cardio Pulmonary
suggest that you arrange a time for visits to take
Resuscitation) trained. As well, our Queen’s Security
place either before or after program dates.
Group has a first aid unit on hand 24 hours a day for less serious illness. If a participant becomes
What about security? Safety and security are our top priority. We realize that we are hosting your child and we know as parents and teachers that you worry about their health and safety. Chaperones always accompany any group excursions any time they are off campus. In addition, Queen’s Campus Security and Emergency Report Centre is on site 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
seriously ill for any reason Queen’s University has within the campus area two major regional hospitals complete with top quality emergency care facilities. Should I need to reach my child due to an unforeseen circumstance, how do I contact them? Although we do discourage parents from contacting their children during class time, if an unforeseen circumstance arises, the QEEI office can be reached during the work-day by phone or email. Our office
Is there first aid offered on-campus should my child need medical attention?
staff can then relay the message to your child. A 24-
Our QEEI coordinators are all required to be
the start-date.
hour number will be provided one month prior to
ACCOMMODATION Questions Leggett Hall
Hall, located at 75 Bader Lane, Queen’s University, Kingston, Ontario. Will my child be sharing his/her room? Most of our resident rooms are doubleoccupancy; roommates will be same-gendered and paired based on age. If your child requires a single room for a medical reason, the request will be accommodated upon receipt of a doctor’s note. Does QEEI allow food or treats to be kept or eaten in their room? Our rooms are not equipped with kitchen amenities such as refrigerators or cooking stoves, however there are garbage containers provided for food containers, food wrappers, etc.
Where are the residence rooms located at Queen’s Engineering Experience International?
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I am concerned about sending documents, money and valuables. Will there be any in-room safety deposit boxes?
All QEEI participants will be assigned their
If not, how do we insure our child does not loose these necessary and important items?
residence rooms in either Leggert Hall or Victoria
Although our residence rooms do not come
Leggett Hall common room
Leggett Hall guest room
Leggett Hall Lobby
securely locked with a room key issued upon arrival.
Besides the cafeteria, is there anywhere else my child can buy food?
It is important to note, however that the students
The Queen’s University Recreation Center houses
are ultimately responsible for all of their valuables.
both a pharmacy and a store to buy convenience
Queen’s Engineering Experience International
items as well as groceries. There are also fast
cannot be responsible for any lost or stolen valuables,
food restaurants and other restaurants located
such as watches, glasses or cell-phones that are lost,
on campus. This food would be purchased at the
stolen or damaged during QEEI.
student’s own expense.
equipped with in-room safes, each room can be
Victoria Hall guest room
Victoria Hall guest room
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CLASSROOM Questions Exactly who are the QEEI team members?
Where are classes held and for what portion of the day?
Of particular interest to parents is the question
Classes begin at 9 a.m. and end at 3 p.m, with a lunch
of “who will be instructing and chaperoning my
break. Classes (technical) are held in the climate-
child”? Our professional team includes Ontario
controlled comfort of the QEEI center located in
Certified ESL Teachers with experience teaching
Beamish-Monroe hall, on Queen’s Main Campus
in classrooms on a regular basis. They have
at 45 Union Street. The optional English training
experience working with international youth and
sessions are held at locations of our partner, the
are committed to ensuring that each and every
Limestone District School Board.
participant has the best educational experience possible.
How do I know if my English is good enough for the QEEI program?
What is the teacher to student ratio?
All classes will be conducted in English, with the
Our student to teacher ratio is 15:1. We find that a lower student to teacher ratio allows students more time for personal interaction with our teachers and teachers have a much better understanding of how the student is progressing through these interactions.
understanding that students can comprehend what is being taught. For those who feel they may not have enough knowledge of the English language, a questionnaire concerning English language proficiency will be sent to prospective participants which will help in the level of proficiency assessment process.
PARTICIPANT Questions Will I have the opportunity to explore the local area? Discovery is what QEEI is all about. Our daily activities include off-campus excursions to various
Having spent time on campus, you will have a
areas around our beautiful and historic city of
better understanding of what it is that attracts
Kingston, the first capital of Canada, and also home
you to Queen’s. Attending the QEEI will help in
to our first Prime Minister, Sir John A. MacDonald.
understanding Canadian culture and daily life, as
We have assembled a sample schedule (see page 5) to
well as how our application process works, should
give you a sense of just how busy and entertained
you choose to enroll in Queen’s University in a
you will be. Of course, our councilors will take
degree program.
every precaution to insure that the safety and health
What do I need to bring?
of each student will be their priority.
As summer in Kingston is typically in the 26oC to
Will I be able to make friends, even if I am a bit shy?
32oC range, the weather is hot and humid during the
One thing that Canadians are known for around the
day and cools down in the evenings. Along with the
world, is their friendly demeanor! We understand
following items, include a light jacket or sweater for
how students may feel anxious, nervous, and
those cool evenings.
awkward when attending QEEI. Relax, don’t worry.
n Hat
You will make friends quickly. As a matter of fact
n Bathing
we find most students attending our program make
n Underwear
n Proper
friendships that last a lifetime.
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How will this experience help me determine if a Canadian University is right for me?
suits and socks
footwear for both beach and school
n Rain
jacket or emergency poncho
n Backpack
or travel bag for essentials on
excursions off-campus
n Toiletries
n Beach
n Pajamas
n Several
n Jeans
n Any
including sunblock
Towel or nightshirt
short sleeved shirts, t-shirts, tops and
shorts and/or sweatpants
doctor prescribed medication. (A letter
describing daily time and dosage would be helpful to counsellors, to insure medicines are being used as needed)
n Water
n Spending
bottle money
general info www.engineering.queensu.ca
MEDIA http://www.youtube.com/Queensengineering http://vimeo.com/queensengineering https://twitter.com/QueensEngineer
CONNECT WITH US Catherine Gurnsey Email: reception@appsci.queensu.ca Tel: 613-533-2055 Queen’s Engineering Experience International 45 Union Street, Kingston, Ontario, Canada K7L 3N6
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Queen’s University Kingston, Ontario, Canada K7L 3N6 Tel: 613.533.6000 Fax: 613.533.2535
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