QUEEN’S ENgiNEEriNg ExpEriENcE iNtErNatioNal
Details of ActivitiesTimetableCampus MapAbout KingstonHow to applyContact information
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.
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.
What the University rankings sayThe Globe and Mail Canadian University Report, 2012
A+ Quality of teaching and learning
A+ reputation with employers
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 per student in the library, and
n the overall operating expenditures devoted to student services.
Welcome to Queen’s University
Catherine GurnseyEmail: [email protected]: 613-533-2055
http://engineering.queensu.ca
Queen’s Engineering Experience International
45 Union Street, Kingston, Ontario, Canada K7L 3N6
Quick Reference Guide and Contact Information
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 Fun Outside the Classroom Student Activities
13 General Information
15 Frequently Asked Questions
coNtENtS
Quick Reference Guide and Contact Information
1
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!
Message from Associate Dean International Scott Yam
2
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 Housed in Beamish-Munro Hall, the Integrated
Learning Centre, Engineering’s award-winning
multidisciplinary undergraduate facility, opened
in 2004. In this “live building,” mechanical,
electrical, and structural systems are monitored
in real-time and online, so students can see how
sustainable practices can be incorporated into
building design.
n The Engineering and Science Library is housed
in Douglas Library, a beautiful limestone
landmark, and the oldest of Queen’s libraries.
On the library’s top floor, an old-fashioned room
with vaulted ceilings and a beautiful stained
glass window is known campus-wide as a
wonderful place to study.
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Modern research Facilities and labsThe Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science at
Queen’s University advances science with its own
collaborative research, supported by a number of
well-equipped, modern research laboratories and
facilities.
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 application-
specific 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.
The Centre for Energy and Power Electronics Research
Human Mobility Research Centre
Queen’s-RMC Fuel Cell Research Centre
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Queen’s-RMC Fuel Cell Research Centre The Queen’s-RMC Fuel Cell Research Centre
(FCRC) is Canada’s leading university-based
research and development organization in
partnership with industry, dedicated to addressing
technology challenges around the commercialization
of fuel cells.
Water Research CentreThe 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 CanadaGreenCentre’s mandate is “changing chemistry,
changing the world.” With a spirit of innovation, its
technical team exemplifies a “hands on” approach to
commercialization. Working in an 8,000-square-foot,
state-of-the-art lab, GreenCentre scientists develop
practical and sustainable solutions to advance green
chemistry technologies.
Mining Explosives LaboratoryQueen’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
Mining Explosives Laboratory
GreenCentre Canada
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Sample Schedule
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
9am-12pm
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
1-3 pm 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
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
9- 10 pm
Bedtime Bedtime Bedtime Bedtime Bedtime Bedtime Bedtime
How to apply
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.
Please email [email protected] 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.
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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
9am-12pm
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
1-3 pm (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
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
7-9 pm Karaoke Fort Henry Sunset
Bowling laser tag Wrap-up BBQ with all staff
9- 10 pm
Bedtime Bedtime Bedtime Bedtime Bedtime Bedtime
academic offeringsAcademic activities (choose 10)
Electrical and Computer Engineeringcomputer gaming, a bigger industry than Hollywood?computer security, hackers beware! Building electronic devices optical fiber communication, internet at the speed of light
Mechanical EngineeringBiomechanics of humanspropulsion and aerodynamics: rockets, planes, submarines Engineering focus: robot design
Mining EngineeringExplosion lab, playing with firegreen building engineeringautomation in mining industry
Civil EngineeringWave action and coastal stabilizationFresh water supply monitoring and conservationinfrascture integrity monitoring: bridges, roads
Chemical Engineeringgreen chemistry and alternative energyFuel cell state-of-the-artpolymer: petroleum, more than just fuel Weekend excursion (choose 1)Weekend getaway to ottawa for a tour of the canada’s capitalcabin camping at Elbow lake Weekend getaway to Montreal: French canadian ExperienceWeekend getaway to toronto: Shopping and Multicultural Neighbourhood
Recreational activities in Kingston (choose 10)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 SchoolpotteryFencingQuidditchDance
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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.
Check out the Queen’s Campus App!
Download the app “campus Walk” to your iphone or ipad —it’s a great campus navigation tool!
Map 1: Residences:70 adelaide Hall69 Ban righ Hall12 John Deutsch University centre residences75 gordon-Brockington Hall60 leonard Hall77 leggett Hall61 McNeill House76 Morris Hall46 Victoria Hall95 Waldron tower62 Watts Hall
Lecture Theatre and Laboratory Locations:16 Beamish-Munro Hall - integrated learning centre (BMH)35 Ellis Hall (Ellis aUD)51 Jeffery Hall66 Stirling Hall (Stirling aUD)64 chernoff Hall (chernoff aUD)83 Etherington Hall (Etherington aUD)57 Biosciences complex auditorium30 Miller Hall15 Dupuis Hall (Dupuis aUD)
Other Buildings of Interest:6 athletics and recreation centre (arc)15 chemical Engineering/Engineering chemistry Main office35 civil Engineering Main office26 Douglas library18 Electrical and computer Engineering Main office66 Engineering physics Main office30 geological Engineering11 Joseph S. Stauffer library51 Mathematics & Engineering Main office82 Mechanical and Materials Engineering Main office17 the robert M. Buchan Department of Mining Main office27 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)
MAP LEGEND
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9
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.
Kingston was chosen as the first capital of Canada on
February 15, 1841, and served in that role until 1844,
when the capital was moved to Ottawa.
Known as the “Limestone City,” Kingston boasts
many grand old buildings constructed from local
limestone, including City Hall and the Frontenac
County Court House, which was originally intended
to house Canada’s Parliament. Kingston was also the
home of Canada’s first Prime Minister, Sir John A.
Macdonald, whose many triumphs included uniting
Atlantic and Pacific with a railway across the nation.
Twenty-one National Historic Sites of Canada are
located in Kingston, including Fort Henry, built
during the War of 1812 to protect Kingston from
potential attacks from the United States.
The city’s setting is appealing to visitors and residents
alike, located on three bodies of water. Kingston sits
on the shore of Lake Ontario, where visitors can enjoy
blue waters and skies along lakeside paths, or rent
sailboats and kayaks. It’s also at the inlet of the St.
Lawrence River, and a departure point for boat cruises
to Thousand Islands National Park. The Rideau
Canal, a UNESCO-designated World Heritage site,
also begins in Kingston.
Kingston: a great place to study— and to explore!
Crowds take in the sights and sounds of a reenactment at historic Fort Henry
Sir John A. Macdonald
10
Grenadier Dr.
Innovation Dr.
Kingston Mills Rd.McAdoo’s Lane
To Gananoque
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Rideau Canal System
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BROCK ST. DOCK
29
OTo reach Kingston’s downtown, students can
either wander along the lake, which marks the
southern border of campus, or stroll through a
beautiful historic neighbourhood. The heart of
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.
11
traveling to and from KingstonBy trainKingston lies on the main railway line between
Montreal and Toronto, and Ottawa and Toronto, so
Canada’s Via Rail service is a fast and easy way to
travel.
By airKingston has a small local airport, with several
flights a day to and from Toronto.
By BusFrom campus to the local bus station is about a
20-minute bus ride, or a 10-minute taxi ride.
By carKingston lies about halfway between Toronto and
Montreal along Highway 401. By car, Kingston is
about 2.5 hours from each of these cities, or about 1.5
hours from Ottawa.
Kingston is a central point for exploring three must-
see 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
in the province of Quebec. It’s renowned for French
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,
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.
other Key Destinations— a tale of three cities
PHOTOS:
TOP: Test your nerves at Toronto’s CN Tower
CENTRE: Stroll the streets of Montreal
BOTTOM: Tour Ottawa’s Parliament Hill
© D
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l Mat
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Extra-curriculars during the weekAfter 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-awaysOn weekends, students will participate in various
guided excursions, such as a visit to Ottawa,
Canada’s national capital, or a trip to the forest to
learn about the region’s flora and fauna.
“Ottawa: the Capital Experience,” depending on
students’ interests, might include the Parliament
buildings; the Museum of Civilization; a light
show at night on Parliament Hill; a walk beside the
Rideau Canal, which commences 202 kilometres
away in Kingston; and a trip to the colourful
Byward market.
“Nature Nearby” features a trip to the Queen’s
University Biological Station, one of the top scientific
field stations in North America, or a similar facility.
Guided hikes, swimming, camping, leadership
games, geo-caching, learning about plants and
animals, and paddling a canoe like a Canadian are
the kinds of activities students can expect.
Fun outside the classroom: Student activities
general information
13
ACCOMMODATIONAll 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.
MEALSBreakfast, 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 PROGRAMWe are pleased to offer several options for the morning classroom sessions:
nEnglish as a Second Language ProgramnPulses 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
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.
14
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.
CyclingBicycles 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.
SwimmingParticipants 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 QEEIBecause 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/EquipmentAll 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.
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Frequently asked Questions
As part of the daily activities, will students take off-campus excursions?
As part of their cultural experience, students will
be escorted by their QEEI counsellors who have
been professionally trained and are knowledgeable
in all aspects of the activity planned, on the
scheduled day.
Although course tuition, accommodation, food, and
local transportation are included in the package
price, spending money for items such as souvenirs
are recommended. It is recommended that parents
or guardians of the student familiarize themselves
with Canadian Dollar exchange rates.
What about airport transfers to and from Queens University?
Airport transfers are offered as a complimentary
service between Pearson International Airport and
Queen’s University in Kingston. Airport pick-up
and drop-off is pre-planned and included in your
itinerary. In case of flight delays, late arrivals, etc.
outside of the scheduled pick-up or drop-off time,
parents will be responsible for additional fees
for private transportation to and from Queen’s
University. We attempt to always maintain close
contact with parents to assure a safe, secure and
enjoyable experience while participating in our
Queen’s Engineering Experience International.
Are there phones available for my child to use?
There are telephones available for your child to use
while at Queen’s University. Your child must have
a calling card, phone card, or be able to call collect.
Pay phones are available and situated throughout
the campus. As there are time differences between
countries, it is important that you plan with your
child how and what time will be best for him or her
to call you.
If I send a cell-phone with my child will that be a problem?
Sending along a cell-phone is never a problem unless
it is lost, broken or becomes a distraction to the
student. As per Queen’s Pulses of Engineering policy
the use of cell-phones is discouraged, especially
during any QEEI class or activity time (this includes
phone conversations, text messaging, and mobile
browsing). It is important that parents discuss these
rules with their child before arrival at QEEI.
Are there internet-ready connections available in residence rooms?
All residence rooms are supplied with high-speed
internet services. Wi Fi is located in many areas
around Queen’s University; however, in some
residence rooms, ethernet connection is the only
connection to the internet. If your child is bringing
his/her laptop, an ethernet cable is recommended.
Are there banks or ATM machines nearby in case they need some spending money?
Almost all major Canadian banks are available
on or near campus. Remember that there may be
charges for inter- financial institutional transactions
for services offered outside of your own bank.
These charges may include ATM service charges,
money conversion rates, wire transfer charges etc.
We also recommend that you explain how financial
responsibility is also a part of your child’s learning
experience by providing them with a daily budget.
Limiting your child’s daily spending also provides
security so they are not carrying extra money that
may be lost or stolen.
Will I be able to accompany my child to QEEI?
We do not allow parents to participate in our
program with their child as this goes against
our philosophy. It is unfair to other participants
and disrupts the flow of the program. If a parent
wishes to stay at Queen’s University residences
or another type of accommodation in the city of
Kingston, we may be able to help, however you
will not be in the same residence as your child,
and they will not be permitted to attend any of the
program classes or excursions.
GENERAL QUESTIONS
16
Will my child need to obtain a travel visa in order to take part in QEEI?
Depending on what country you are from, you may
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
Will my child need to have a notarized letter from their legal guardians to travel alone if they are under the age of 18?
According to the Government of Canada’s Citizen
and Immigration Website:
“If the child is travelling alone, the child should
have a copy of his/her birth certificate as well as
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
telephone number(s). It should also include the
name, address and telephone number of the adult
who will be responsible for the child in Canada.”
http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/visit/arriving.asp
APPLICATION QUESTIONS
What happens if my child becomes homesick?
Because homesickness is a very natural and
common occurrence, even with adults, our staff
are aware and trained to deal with these issues in a
caring and compassionate manner. We have found
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
students focus on the fun they are having and the
sports and activities they are enjoying. This usually
alleviates these feeling of being disconnected from
their family and friends at home.
Is my child allowed visitors during their QEEI session?
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
SAFETY QUESTIONS
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or relatives staying in town at the same time, we
suggest that you arrange a time for visits to take
place either before or after program dates.
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.
Is there first aid offered on-campus should my child need medical attention?
Our QEEI coordinators are all required to be
trained in first-aid and CPR (Cardio Pulmonary
Resuscitation) trained. As well, our Queen’s Security
Group has a first aid unit on hand 24 hours a day
for less serious illness. If a participant becomes
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
staff can then relay the message to your child. A 24-
hour number will be provided one month prior to
the start-date.
Where are the residence rooms located at Queen’s Engineering Experience International?
All QEEI participants will be assigned their
residence rooms in either Leggert Hall or Victoria
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.
I am concerned about sending documents, money and valuables. Will there be any in-room safety deposit boxes?
If not, how do we insure our child does not loose these necessary and important items?
Although our residence rooms do not come
ACCOMMODATION QUESTIONS
Frequently asked Questions... continued
Leggett Hall
18
equipped with in-room safes, each room can be
securely locked with a room key issued upon arrival.
It is important to note, however that the students
are ultimately responsible for all of their valuables.
Queen’s Engineering Experience International
cannot be responsible for any lost or stolen valuables,
such as watches, glasses or cell-phones that are lost,
stolen or damaged during QEEI.
Besides the cafeteria, is there anywhere else my child can buy food?
The Queen’s University Recreation Center houses
both a pharmacy and a store to buy convenience
items as well as groceries. There are also fast
food restaurants and other restaurants located
on campus. This food would be purchased at the
student’s own expense.
Leggett Hall Lobby
Leggett Hall guest room
Victoria Hall guest room
Leggett Hall common room
Victoria Hall guest room
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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
areas around our beautiful and historic city of
Kingston, the first capital of Canada, and also home
to our first Prime Minister, Sir John A. MacDonald.
We have assembled a sample schedule (see page 5) to
give you a sense of just how busy and entertained
you will be. Of course, our councilors will take
every precaution to insure that the safety and health
of each student will be their priority.
Will I be able to make friends, even if I am a bit shy?
One thing that Canadians are known for around the
world, is their friendly demeanor! We understand
how students may feel anxious, nervous, and
awkward when attending QEEI. Relax, don’t worry.
You will make friends quickly. As a matter of fact
we find most students attending our program make
friendships that last a lifetime.
How will this experience help me determine if a Canadian University is right for me?
Having spent time on campus, you will have a
better understanding of what it is that attracts
you to Queen’s. Attending the QEEI will help in
understanding Canadian culture and daily life, as
well as how our application process works, should
you choose to enroll in Queen’s University in a
degree program.
What do I need to bring?
As summer in Kingston is typically in the 26oC to
32oC range, the weather is hot and humid during the
day and cools down in the evenings. Along with the
following items, include a light jacket or sweater for
those cool evenings.
n Hat
n Bathing suits
n Underwear and socks
n Proper footwear for both beach and school
Exactly who are the QEEI team members?
Of particular interest to parents is the question
of “who will be instructing and chaperoning my
child”? Our professional team includes Ontario
Certified ESL Teachers with experience teaching
in classrooms on a regular basis. They have
experience working with international youth and
are committed to ensuring that each and every
participant has the best educational experience
possible.
What is the teacher to student ratio?
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.
Where are classes held and for what portion of the day?
Classes begin at 9 a.m. and end at 3 p.m, with a lunch
break. Classes (technical) are held in the climate-
controlled comfort of the QEEI center located in
Beamish-Monroe hall, on Queen’s Main Campus
at 45 Union Street. The optional English training
sessions are held at locations of our partner, the
Limestone District School Board.
How do I know if my English is good enough for the QEEI program?
All classes will be conducted in English, with the
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.
CLASSROOM QUESTIONS
PARTICIPANT QUESTIONS
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n Rain jacket or emergency poncho
n Backpack or travel bag for essentials on
excursions off-campus
n Toiletries including sunblock
n Beach Towel
n Pajamas or nightshirt
n Several short sleeved shirts, t-shirts, tops and
shorts
n Jeans and/or sweatpants
n Any 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 bottle
n Spending money
www.engineering.queensu.ca
GENERAL INFO
Catherine GurnseyEmail: [email protected]
Tel: 613-533-2055
Queen’s Engineering Experience International
45 Union Street, Kingston, Ontario, Canada K7L 3N6
CONNECT WITH US
http://www.youtube.com/Queensengineering
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https://twitter.com/QueensEngineer
MEDIA
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Queen’s UniversityKingston, ontario, canada K7l 3N6
tel: 613.533.6000Fax: 613.533.2535
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