Queen"s Engineering Experience International

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 70 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 ranks sayThe Globe and Mail Canadian University Report, 2013

A+ reputation with employers

A+ Sense of personal safety and security

A+ recreation and athletics

Maclean’s Magazine University Rankings, 2013

Queen’s earned top marks in a number of categories, ranking first in canada for:

n Number of faculty members wining national awards

n Holding per student in the library

n Student retention

n proportion of students who graduate

Welcome to Queen’s University

Catherine GurnseyEmail: [email protected]: 613-533-2055

http://engineering.queensu.ca Queen’s Engineering Experience International45 Union Street, Kingston, Ontario, Canada K7L 3N6

Quick Reference Guide and Contact Information

2 Message from Associate Dean International Scott Yam

4 Modern Research Facilities and Labs

6 Sample Schedule How to Apply

8 Campus Map

10 Kingston: A Great Place to Study—and to Explore!

12 Other Key Destinations—A Tale of Three Cities Traveling to and from Kingston

13 Fun Outside the Classroom Student Activities

14 General Information

15 Frequently Asked Questions

coNtENtS

Quick Reference Guide and Contact Information

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Welcome to a Canadian engineering experience

Kingston comes with a distinguished resume. The first Canadian capital, Thousand Islands 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. For 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 affect 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 review the information closely, and decide on the academic and social activities that pique your interests, as well as the accommodation arrangements. We look forward to sharing our Canadian engineering experience with you!

Message from Associate Dean International Scott Yam

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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 fewer 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 historic 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


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 islands 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 will 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.

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. Please indicate the duration of your duration choice (two to four weeks), and whether you will require 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


ESl:conversation

skillse

ESl:conversation

skills

ESl:presentation

skills

packing

12-1pm lunch lunch lunch lunch lunch leave 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 lakeWeekend 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 islands Boat cruise on a paddle-wheel boat. includes tour of the bridge.Sailing in lake ontariocycling trip and picnic on Wolfe islandVisit Sandbanks provincial park – view coastal stabilization in real life and enjoy the beachVisit to pump House MuseumVisit to penitentiary museum Horseback ridingrock climbinggolfHaunted Walk of Kingstonagnes art centreMuseum of Health carecity Hall tourscity 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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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

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BROCK ST. DOCK

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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.

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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 historic Parliament Hill, the site 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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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

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ACCOMMODATIONAll accommodations are centrally located on Queen’s campus which has secured access for all guests. There will be gender specific sections, 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 extensions, 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 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.

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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 students 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.

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 Queen’s 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

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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 double occupancy; 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 ensure our child does not lose these necessary and important items?

Although our residence rooms do not come

ACCOMMODATIONS QUESTIONS

Frequently asked Questions... continued

Leggett Hall

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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 counsellors will take every precaution to ensure 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.caGENERAL INFO

Catherine GurnseyEmail: [email protected]: 613-533-2055

Queen’s Engineering Experience International45 Union Street, Kingston, Ontario, Canada K7L 3N6

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MEDIA

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Queen’s UniversityKingston, ontario, canada K7l 3N6

tel: 613.533.6000Fax: 613.533.2535

Documents

Queen"s Engineering Experience International