As exam season gets underway, staff across Student Affairs are providing some extra supports to students.

Small teams from Housing and Ancillary Services and Student Affairs walked along campus streets, and through buildings and libraries on Dec. 6, with “Gaels Gifts” – cookies, beverages, and other merchandise. In partnership with campus food and cold beverage providers, their random acts of kindness included treating students to their purchase at retail food locations and bringing in a special Coca-Cola “Hug Me” vending machine in the Queen’s Centre that dispensed free items.

“Our teams connected with hundreds of students throughout the day on main and west campus,” says Kathy Newstead, Manager, Operations, Hospitality and Event Services. “So many students told us we made their day – their eyes lit up when they saw us coming. It was a lot of fun to give students some encouragement and support at this stressful time of the term. Thanks to all staff who participated!”

In addition, members of Student Community Relations and Sexual Violence Prevention and Response Services, have gone door to door in near-campus neighbourhoods, and set up tables near busy intersections, and on campus, to hand out treats, hot chocolate, and timely resources.

This outreach is just one of the many efforts to support students during the end-of-term and exam period and help them feel connected and take time for wellness as they focus on their studies.

Writing support

Student Academic Success Services (SASS) is offering writing appointments until Dec. 18. These give students the opportunity to meet with a professional writing consultant in-person or online.

SASS also hosted its annual Get It Done event on Sunday, Dec. 3, which provided a productive space for students to focus on studying for exams and preparing final assignments (with snacks). Peer and professional staff were on hand for support.

Study spaces

All students are welcome to study at the Queen’s University International Centre (QUIC) in Mitchell Hall throughout the exam period.

Indigenous students are welcome to book a study space at the Four Directions Indigenous Student Centre (4D). The centre held a 4D Study Day on Dec. 6, providing quiet study spaces, breakfast, lunch, snacks, and optional self-care activities.

QTBIPoC students are welcome to drop by the Yellow House to study.

The Student Experience Office is open for quiet study time and snacks, 10:30 am–3:30 pm, Mon–Fri, Dec. 7–21, in LaSalle 224.

Exam-time hours for exercise and free fitness classes

The Athletics and Recreation Centre (ARC) launches its annual exam-time hours of operation and programs on Dec. 11, including free fitness classes.

Wellness breaks

Oscar, the St. John’s Ambulance therapy dog, will be stopping by campus once more this term on Dec. 13, from 12-1 p.m. All are invited to come to Mitchell Hall to pet the campus’s favourite golden retriever and enjoy a well-deserved study break.

Faith and Spiritual Life is hosting Cookies and Conversation, weekdays Dec. 7-20, 10:30 am – 2 pm, in Mitchell Hall.

Community wellness online

Students following Student Wellness Services on Instagram and TikTok can participate in the 10 Days of Exams Wellness Challenge, Dec. 7–16.