Details

• Canada
• BaWiSo-23
• Undergraduate
• WS 2025
• Time spent at the partner university: 5 months

1. Preparation

When applying through WU, I would strongly recommend focusing on regions that genuinely interest you rather than choosing universities solely based on rankings. This helps to stay motivated throughout the application process and leads to a more fulfilling exchange experience. It is also important to keep backup universities in mind in case you do not get accepted into your first choice in the first selection round. For the interview, researching the background of the interviewer can be very helpful, as it often gives insight into their academic focus and the potential direction of the questions. When preparing for the semester abroad, having a clear and well-organized overview of all deadlines is essential, especially regarding course registration, visa or ETA applications, insurance, and travel arrangements. Course selection in particular should not be underestimated, as it strongly influences the workload during the semester; consulting the exchange report database can provide valuable insights here. Lastly, it is important to plan ahead for additional requirements such as extra travel insurance, mobile phone plans, and hidden costs imposed by the host university or country.

2. Accommodation

I started looking for accommodation as soon as I knew I was going to Kingston, which I would strongly recommend. However, it is important not to worry if nothing suitable appears immediately, as many apartments are only listed one to two months before the semester starts. While many students use Facebook groups, caution is advised due to the high number of scams. I personally found my apartment through Roomies.ca, which proved to be a reliable option. Accommodation is typically private housing, as there is no on-campus student residence available for exchange students. If there is any uncertainty regarding contracts or offers, Queen’s University provides support through the Off-Campus Living Advisor. Areas south of Princess Street, especially within the so-called “student ghetto,” are very safe and conveniently located, with most places reachable on foot. Public buses are also free with the student ID card, making transportation around the city easy.

3. Academic life at host university

Academic life at Queen’s University is characterized by a very supportive and engaging learning environment. I took my courses at the Smith School of Business, which plays a central role in student life and offers excellent infrastructure. One of the biggest differences compared to WU Vienna is the strong involvement of professors as they are highly engaged, approachable, and genuinely care about students’ learning progress. Teaching is interactive and discussion-based, with a strong focus on practical application. With the student ID, access to the ARC (Athletics and Recreation Centre) gym is free, and there are countless sports events and activities throughout the semester. I would highly recommend attending at least one game of each major sport, as they are a big part of campus culture and often a highlight of the weekend. In general, there is always something happening on campus, with many events, student clubs, and social activities that exchange students can easily join. Academically, I did not find it particularly difficult to achieve good grades. Assessment is based largely on group work, presentations, and written reports, with very few traditional written exams. This continuous assessment system reduces exam pressure compared to WU Vienna. As a Bachelor-level exchange student, I took the following courses: COMM 351 Leadership, COMM 374 International Business Strategy, COMM 373 International Business Negotiations, and COMM 333 Marketing Strategy.

5. Every day life in the host country

Everyday life in Kingston is very student-friendly and safe. Public transport works well, and buses are free with the student ID card, making it easy and convenient to get around the city. I always felt safe using public transport, even in the evening, and walking around the city at night was generally not an issue. Since Kingston is relatively small, you can walk almost everywhere. I also used Uber quite frequently, as it is relatively affordable compared to many European cities. For groceries, Metro is a very convenient and popular supermarket, especially among students. Using the Metro Moi Rewards card can lead to small discounts, and in some cases, showing the student ID at checkout helps reduce additional charges, making everyday shopping more affordable. In general, grocery shopping is the most cost-effective option, as ordering food or eating out regularly can become quite expensive. Most social activities take place either on campus or along Princess Street, where the majority of bars and clubs are located and where students regularly go out. Beyond nightlife, Queen’s University offers a wide range of sports and leisure activities. With free access to the ARC gym, many students stay active, and there are numerous intramural sports leagues that are easy to join, even as an exchange student. In addition, the university organizes many events and student clubs, ensuring that there is always something happening, especially on weekends.

6. Testimonial

My exchange semester at Queen’s University was an incredibly enriching and unforgettable experience. While the academic environment was stimulating and supportive, what truly made this exchange special were the people I met along the way. The friendships I formed with students from all over the world became the highlight of my time abroad and turned everyday moments into lasting memories. Living, learning, and growing together in such an open and welcoming environment made this semester truly unique, and it is an experience I will carry with me far beyond my studies.