Graduate school can be intense, demanding, and sometimes overwhelming. With deadlines constantly on your mind, it's easy to get tunnel vision and forget about one essential aspect of the journey: having fun and connecting with others! In the midst of the Ph.D. grind, it’s crucial to engage with the Queen’s University community and explore all the great things Kingston has to offer.
This post is part of a series designed to support graduate students as they navigate their academic journey. Building on our previous discussion in "Before You Dive In: Essential Tips to Kickstart Your Graduate Journey," let's dive into how you can make the most of your time at Queen’s and build a rich, enjoyable experience outside of academics.
1. Engage with Your Department’s Graduate Student Body
Don’t overlook the graduate student community within your own department. Joining your department’s grad student body is a great way to form connections with peers and get involved in organizing social events, academic talks, and other activities. I served as a Ph.D. grad committee officer in the Graduate Computing Society (GCS). This gave me a platform to represent student concerns, organize coffee breaks for faculty and students, and help with orientation activities. You could even start something like a buddy program to help new students adjust to life at Queen’s and in Kingston, just like I did. It’s a chance to develop leadership skills while fostering camaraderie.
2. Join a Club (or Start One!)
Did you know Queen’s has over 300 student-run clubs? From sports to culture to academic interests, there’s something for everyone. You can explore the full list of clubs on the AMS Club Directory. Every year, clubs showcase themselves at the Sidewalk Sale and Tricolour Open House, so be sure to check them out next Fall if you’re still around. Additionally, some clubs participate in the Cultural Market, an annual event organized by the Mental Health Awareness Committee (MHAC) each March. Whether you’re passionate about a specific activity or curious about a new hobby, being part of a club can help you find your tribe and build a sense of belonging.
Can’t find a club that speaks to you? Why not create one! For instance, I founded the Egyptian Students Association at Queen’s (ESAQ) in 2021-2022 to connect students with an Egyptian background and promote cultural exchange within the Queen’s and Kingston communities. Starting a club is a rewarding way to take initiative, foster community, and share your interests with others.
3. Get Involved in Events and Activities on Campus
At Queen's, countless events and activities are happening year-round. Make sure you’re following the Queen’s Events website, the Society of Graduate and Professional Students (SGPS), the Queen's University International Centre (QUIC), the Allyship & Belonging Student Calendar, and the Queen’s Events calendar for updates on events and activities. Whether it’s a bus trip, a trivia night, or an intercultural awareness training, there’s always something to enjoy. These events provide an excellent opportunity to meet other students, share your experiences, and take a break from your daily grind.
4. Explore Kingston
While your studies might be centred at Queen’s, don’t miss the chance to explore Kingston! It’s a beautiful city with a rich history, and there’s always something going on downtown. Keep an eye on the YGK Events, Visit Kingston, The Isabel, and Tett Centre websites to discover concerts, markets, festivals, and outdoor activities. If you’re looking for a new experience, Kingston has plenty to offer. For example, October is an excellent time to check the fall colours at Rock Dunder. I also like to go on hikes year-round to watch and take photos of wildlife in Lemoine Point Conservation Area. Exploring the city helps you unwind and appreciate your surroundings beyond the academic environment.
Graduate school is a marathon, not a sprint, and it’s essential to maintain balance throughout your journey. Engaging in community activities, making time for fun, and building connections will help you stay energized and motivated. By getting involved in events on campus, joining clubs, staying active, and exploring Kingston, you’ll enhance your grad school experience far beyond the classroom or lab. So, while it’s essential to work hard, don’t forget to have fun along the way!
Photo Credit: The blog post’s photo was taken by Bernard Clark and downloaded from Queen’s University’s Flickr account.