Studying abroad can be exciting yet challenging. When I first arrived, it took time to navigate the available resources and find the right information. Queen鈥檚 University offers several spaces to support international students, and in this blog, I鈥檒l highlight the Queen鈥檚 University International Centre (QUIC). QUIC serves as a home away from home, providing essential services for a smooth transition to life in Canada, from pre-arrival resources to ongoing workshops. Having worked at QUIC as student staff, I鈥檝e experienced firsthand the key programs and services they offer. Here鈥檚 what you should know:
- : QUIC offers pre-arrival webinars, orientation programs, and workshops to help students prepare for life in Kingston and at 果酱视频. These initiatives ensure students feel informed and confident before they even set foot on campus. Their welcome week organized in the first week of September and January are the must to attend to gain an overall perspective of the environment.
- : As an international student, I understand the challenges of making friends due to language barriers and adjusting to a new environment. I particularly appreciated the format of the workshops at QUIC, especially the weekly Writing and Speaking English programs. The writing workshops provide a valuable opportunity to develop and improve academic writing skills.
- : QUIC organizes social events and cultural celebrations that promote a sense of belonging and facilitate cross-cultural connections. I participated in the Intercultural Training, a five-part workshop series that helped me gain a deeper understanding of various cultural dimensions and approaches to interact with individuals from diverse backgrounds in this multicultural environment.
- : Understanding immigration requirements can be overwhelming, and QUIC has International Student Advisors (ISA) who can provide expert advice on permits, visas, and other legal documents, ensuring compliance with Canadian regulations.
- The space is equipped with various amenities that can be utilized daily. For example, I often enjoy sitting there to work, and they offer free coffee and snacks. Additionally, if you wish to organize an event, is straightforward. I hosted a Waste Management Workshop there, and it was convenient for international students to find the location. We also received excellent support from QUIC in organizing the event.
One of the most wonderful aspects of QUIC is their Holiday Host Program, which offers international students the opportunity to be hosted by local staff or faculty members for a free traditional holiday meal, providing a warm and festive experience with a Kingston family. This typically takes place during the last two weeks of December, and I vividly remember my first winter in the city when I was welcomed with a traditional Christmas meal by one of the professors at Queen鈥檚. Advanced registration is required, and you can contact QUIC via their email address (quic@queensu.ca) in December to participate.
Studying abroad is a transformative journey, and having the right support systems in place makes all the difference. If you鈥檙e new to Queen鈥檚 and still settling in, I highly recommend visiting their spaces to find comfort and support鈥攖hey are here to guide, assist, and inspire you as you make the most of your university experience. You can find them at Mitchell Hall, 208-67 Union Street, Kingston, ON K7L 3N6.