First-Year Foundation

Summer Webinars

June-August 2025

Summer Webinars for First-Year Students

From June-August, the Student Experience Office will be bringing you webinars that address important information incoming first-year students need to know, including:

  • How and when to register for courses
  • How to select your residence room or how to find off-campus housing
  • What it is really like being a university student
  • And more!

Incoming first-year students, parents, families, and supporters are encouraged to attend.

 

Continue to check back as we update this page with more webinars for summer 2025, including Residence Move-In, and more!

Recordings for webinars marked as "Recording available afterward" will be posted on this page within 2-3 business days. Faculty of Health Sciences and School of Nursing students will be emailed their applicable webinar recordings directly. 

Past webinars can also be viewed on the Student Experience Office's .

June 16-22, 2025

Wondering what your next steps are now that you are officially a Queen's student? Join our team of upper-year student leaders to learn about the First-Year Foundation program at the Student Experience Office - here to support your transition, help you build your community, and find your path to success. You'll learn about all the opportunities available for you starting this summer, including both summer and fall orientation, mentorship programs, online resources, and more! 

✅ Open to all incoming first-year students
✅ Parents and supporters are encouraged to attend
✅ Recording available afterward 

 to get a head start on your Queen's transition!

June 23-29, 2025

Are you interested in learning about accessibility resources and disability supports available at Queen’s University? Join our informative webinar with Queen’s Student Accessibility Services (QSAS). QSAS is committed to supporting students who experience disability-related barriers to their academics. This session will provide valuable information about QSAS services and explain how the accommodation process works.

✅ Open to all incoming first-year students
✅ Parents and supporters are encouraged to attend
✅ Recording available afterward 

Do you have questions or concerns about living off-campus this year? If you feel uncertain about where to start, be sure to attend this webinar. You will be introduced to the Off-Campus Living Advisor (OCLA), who will explain how to navigate rentals, choose your housemates, handle applications and lease agreements, and understand the rights and responsibilities of tenants and landlords. You will also meet Cassandra, the Student Lead of the First Year Off-Campus Community, who will share what we have planned this summer to connect with other off-campus students and ways to assist with your social transition to Kingston.

✅ Open to all incoming first-year students who are planning on living off-campus in their first year
✅ Parents and supporters are encouraged to attend
✅ Recording available afterward 

June 30-July 6, 2025

No webinars currently scheduled for this week.

July 7-13, 2025

Start your Queen’s journey with confidence! 

Join us for the SOAR 2025 Kickoff Webinar — your official introduction to Queen’s University’s summer orientation experience. Meet student leaders, learn about the rules for the Summer SOAR games and what to expect from SOAR events happening all July long. This is your first opportunity to represent your faculty and begin earning points towards the SOAR Cup and find out how to connect with your new community. 

✅ Open to all incoming first-year students
✅ Parents and supporters are encouraged to attend the first half of the webinar
✅ Recording available afterward 

Whether you’re feeling excited or nervous (or both!), this session is a great first step.

to kickoff your SOAR experience! 

Join our Campus Tour team for a guided virtual tour on Zoom to learn more about Queen's campus and student life! Current students will present a photo slideshow with campus information and their own experiences, followed by an opportunity for Q&A.

✅ Open to all incoming first-year students

Are you living in Queen’s residence this fall? Join us to learn more about the self-selection process, key deadlines, and next steps. There will also be an opportunity to ask questions to the Residence Adֱs team about self-selection. 

✅ Open to all incoming first-year students who are living in residence in the fall
✅ Parents and supporters are encouraged to attend
✅ Recording available afterward 

Join our Campus Tour team for a guided virtual tour on Zoom to learn more about Queen's campus and student life! Current students will present a photo slideshow with campus information and their own experiences, followed by an opportunity for Q&A. 

✅ Open to all incoming first-year students

July 14-20, 2025

Join us for a one-hour live webinar that gives you a crash course on everything Engineering at Queen's!

We'll cover the essentials from academics and student life to design teams, events, Orientation Week, and more. You'll also get exclusive insights and real advice from upper-year students who've been through it all. Whether you're curious about courses or looking to get involved, this session will help you hit the ground running. 

✅ Open to all incoming first-year students in Smith Engineering 

We can't wait to see you there!

Unsure of how to enroll in your Health Sciences courses or what prerequisites you may need for your degree plan? Join Alana Korczynski (Programs Manager) & Dr. Nikki Philbrook (Program Director) along with current BHSc students to review the course registration process.

✅ Open to all incoming first-year Bachelor of Health Sciences (BHSc) students
✅ Recording available afterward 

Health Sciences students, !

This session is designed for all Faculty of Arts and Science (A&S) students to welcome our incoming class and to provide an overview of how A&S academic programs work and the different options and opportunities available to students in the Faculty of Arts and Science. Included will be an overview of the other sessions to follow that students are recommended to attend or watch online and a Q&A to follow. Hosted by the Faculty of Arts and Science Associate Dean.

✅ Open to all incoming first-year students in the Faculty of Arts and Science
✅ Recording available afterward 

 

Do you have questions about the Concurrent Education program and what your first year and beyond will look like? Join us to hear about the program, meet our Academic and Career advisors and have all of your questions answered. 

✅ Open to all incoming first-year students in Concurrent Education
✅ Recording available afterward 

Concurrent Education students, 

Got questions? We've got answers straight from the Engineering students who've been there. 

Join us for a one-hour live Q&A featuring a mix of pre-submitted and live questions to help you feel confident and informed before arriving. You'll also get the chance to join open breakout rooms where you can chat, connect, and get to know your future classmates. No slides, no pressure, just real talk from upper years and a chance to start building your Engineering community. 

✅ Open to all incoming first-year students in Smith Engineering 

Bring your questions and let's get talking! .

Welcome to Queen’s School of Nursing. Join us for a session to learn more about what you can expect while a nursing student at Queen’s. 

✅ Open to all incoming first-year students in the School of Nursing
✅ Recording available afterward 

Nursing students, !

This session is designed for incoming first year students in Arts. It will walk students through the steps to register, how to build a timetable, how to choose and add classes in SOLUS (including how to find enrolment appointment and the idea of first year being a time for exploration and keeping Plan options open). It will also provide some information on the academic cycle – what happens in first year and when (December exams, mid-year grades, final grades, Plan selection, other important dates), next steps, future years and where to go for information and advice as a first-year student. hosted by Kathryn Vilela (Academic Advising Lead).

✅ Open to all incoming first-year students in the Faculty of Arts and Science - General Arts
✅ Recording available afterward 

This session is designed for incoming first year students in Science. It will walk students through the steps to register, how to build a timetable, how to choose and add classes in SOLUS (including how to find enrolment appointment and the idea of first year being a time for exploration and keeping Plan options open). It will also provide some information on the academic cycle – what happens in first year and when (December exams, mid-year grades, final grades, Plan selection, other important dates), next steps, future years and where to go for information and advice as a first-year student. An explanation of the different courses available in Math and Physics will also be provided. Hosted by Kathryn Vilela (Academic Advising Lead).

✅ Open to all incoming first-year students in the Faculty of Arts and Science - General Science
✅ Recording available afterward 

Welcome to Queen's Arts and Science, and to Canada! Daralyn Auld, Academic Advisor for International Students, hosts this session to help you navigate the transitions ahead with confidence. Learn more about the resources and supports that are here to help you thrive in all aspects of student life, from academics to culture and community. Hosted by Daralyn Auld (Academic Advisor for International Students).

✅ Open to all incoming first-year international students in the Faculty of Arts and Science
✅ Recording available afterward 

Welcome to Queen's Arts and Science! Jenna Kring, Academic Advisor for Indigenous Students, hosts this session to share helpful information not only about the academic environment you're stepping into this year, but the cultural, personal, and community-centered support that's here for you as an Indigenous student. Hosted by Jenna King (Academic Advisor for Indigenous Students).

✅ Open to all incoming first-year indigenous students in the Faculty of Arts and Science
✅ Recording available afterward 

 

This “Quick Fires” session will help familiarize you with course content and to introduce you to your instructors for 3 of your first-year Bachelor of Health Sciences core courses. This session will include a brief course overview of each course and an opportunity to ask the instructor any questions you may have. The courses covered will be:

  • PHAR 100 Introductory Pharmacology
  • IDIS 173 History and Philosophy of Health and Healthcare
  • HSCI 190 Statistics for the Health Sciences

✅ Open to all incoming first-year Bachelor of Health Sciences (BHSc) students
✅ Parents and supporters are encouraged to attend
✅ Recording available afterward 

Health Sciences students, !

This session is designed for incoming first year students in the Bachelor of Music Program. It will walk students through the different opportunities and options specific to Music (lessons, thesis, ensembles, etc.) It will walk students through the A&S 101 Handbook specific to the BMUS Plan, how to build a timetable, how to choose electives, how to add classes in SOLUS (including how to find enrollment appointments). AP and IB credits will be covered. It will also provide some information on the academic cycle – what happens in first year and when (December exams, mid-year grades, final grades, Plan selection, other important dates), next steps, future years and where to go for information and advice as a first year student. Any other important details re: performance-based classes will be covered as well as any other details specific to BMUS (instruments, equipment, practice rooms, auditions, admin/housekeeping details, etc.). Following the session, we will allow time for a Q&A with the host. Hosted by Dr. Colleen Renihan (Undergraduate Chair, School of Music) and Kim Gudlauski (Music Undergraduate Program and Events Coordinator).

✅ Open to all incoming first-year students in the Bachelor of Music Program
✅ Recording available afterward 

 

This session is designed for incoming first year students in the Bachelor of Computing Program. It will walk students through the different Degree Plan Options specific to Computing, as well as the opportunities and options available in the School of Computing (research, thesis, volunteering in labs, internship, professional certification, etc.) It will cover which CISC and MATH courses to choose as well as provide some information on the academic cycle – what happens in first year and when (December exams, mid-year grades, final grades, Plan selection, other important dates), next steps, future years and where to go for information and advice as a first year student. Following the session, we will allow time for a Q&A with the host. Hosted by the Undergraduate Chair of the School of Computing, Erin Gunsinger (Computing Undergraduate Program Assistant), and Karen Knight (Computing Undergraduate Programs Administrator). 

✅ Open to all incoming first-year students in the Bachelor of Computing Program
✅ Recording available afterward 

Have questions about your courses, degree requirements, or academic planning? Join the Faculty of Arts and Science Academic Advisors for a live AMA (Ask Me Anything) session—your chance to get real-time answers and helpful guidance. Hosted by Kathryn Vilela (Academic Advising Lead), Daralyn Auld (Academic Advisor for International Students), and Jenna Kring (Academic Advisor for Indigenous Students). 

✅ Open to all incoming first-year students in the Faculty of Arts and Science

Check back soon for the registration link!

 

This session is designed for incoming first year students in the Bachelor of Science - Kinesiology Program. Staff and current Kinesiology students will discuss different opportunities and options specific to Kinesiology (research, thesis, volunteering in labs, mini-streams, community-based practicum, etc.). Students will learn how to build a timetable with their preregistered courses, how to choose electives, how to add classes in SOLUS (including how to find your enrolment appointment time). AP and IB credits will be covered. The session will also provide some information on the academic cycle: what happens in first year and when and where to go for information and advice as a first-year student. Following the session, we will allow time for a Q&A with the host. Hosted by Dr. Stevenson Fergus (Undergraduate Chair, Kinesiology and Health Studies) and Vanessa McCourt (Kinesiology Academic Advisor and Undergraduate Program Coordinator).

✅ Open to all incoming first-year students in the Bachelor of Science - Kinesiology Program
✅ Recording available afterward 

This session is designed for incoming first year students in the direct-entry streams of Life Sciences and Biochemistry. It will walk students through the registration process as well as provide some information on the academic cycle – what happens in first year and when (December exams, mid-year grades, final grades, Plan selection, other important dates), next steps, future years and where to go for information and advice as a first year student. Following the session, we will allow time for a Q&A with the host. Hosted by Dr. Laura van Staalduinen (Director, Biochemistry) and the Director, Life Sciences.

✅ Open to all incoming first-year students in the Life Sciences and Biochemistry Program (direct-entry)
✅ Recording available afterward 

Incoming first-year Commerce students and their supporters are invited to join us for an interactive virtual welcome event. This session offers an early introduction to the Commerce program, key support units, and engagement opportunities. After a shared overview, students and supporters will split into breakout sessions tailored to their needs — with games, virtual tours, and Q&As. It’s a great chance to start building connections and preparing for the year ahead.

✅ Open to all incoming first-year students in Commerce
✅ Parents and supporters are encouraged to attend

We recommend students and parents/supporters join from separate devices. 

Commerce students, check back soon for the registration link!

Join us for a one-hour live webinar that gives you a crash course on everything Engineering at Queen's!

We'll cover the essentials from academics and student life to design teams, events, Orientation Week, and more. You'll also get exclusive insights and real advice from upper-year students who've been through it all. Whether you're curious about courses or looking to get involved, this session will help you hit the ground running. 

✅ Open to all incoming first-year students in Smith Engineering 

We can't wait to see you there! .

You’ve reviewed the First Year Registration Guide and attended your registration webinar (or watched the recording), but you still have a few quick questions? No worries – we’ve got you covered. Join our advising drop-in on Friday, July 18, either in the morning between 9:00am-noon or in the afternoon between 1:00-4:00pm (Eastern Time Zone), and have your questions answered by our academic advising team. 

✅ Open to all incoming first-year students in the Faculty of Arts and Science

Check back soon for the registration link!

Connect with upper-year BHSc students and ask them any questions that you may have about the program and student life at Queen’s.

✅ Open to all incoming first-year students in Health Sciences 

Health Sciences students, !

Got questions? We've got answers straight from the Engineering students who've been there. 

Join us for a one-hour live Q&A featuring a mix of pre-submitted and live questions to help you feel confident and informed before arriving. You'll also get the chance to join open breakout rooms where you can chat, connect, and get to know your future classmates. No slides, no pressure, just real talk from upper years and a chance to start building your Engineering community. 

✅ Open to all incoming first-year students in Smith Engineering 

Bring your questions and let's get talking! .

July 21-27, 2025

Looking to meet new people, build your skills, and make the most of your time at Queen’s? Join us for the Getting Involved at Queen’s SOAR webinar — your guide to student life outside the classroom.

Hear from student leaders, clubs, and campus organizations about how to get involved, volunteer, and take on leadership roles. Whether you’re into student government, intramurals, activism, arts, or just looking to try something new, this session will show you what’s out there and how to take the first step.

✅ Open to all incoming first-year students
✅ Recording available afterward 

Are you interested in learning about accessibility resources and disability supports available at Queen’s University? Join our informative webinar with Queen’s Student Accessibility Services (QSAS). QSAS is committed to supporting students who experience disability-related barriers to their academics. This session will provide valuable information about QSAS services and explain how the accommodation process works. Join us to discover how QSAS can help you in your academic journey at Queen’s!

✅ Open to all incoming first-year students 
✅ Parents and supporters are encouraged to attend
✅ Recording available afterward 

Parents - if you did not attend college or university in Canada, you may have additional questions and concerns about your students' upcoming start at Queen's. Join Cathy Keates, Assistant Dean, Student Affairs, who has worked with university students for over 25 years and was also a first-generation university student herself (many years ago!), for a discussion about some common experiences of being the first in a family to attend university and what can be helpful for you to know as parents and supporters. Leave with the confidence that you can be a great support to your student, whether you've had a university experience yourself or not. 

✅ Open to all parents, families, and supporters of first-generation students
✅ Recording available afterward 

Your first year at Queen’s is more than just lectures and late-night studying — it’s a journey of balance, growth, and support.

Join us for Thrive at Queen’s, a SOAR 2025 webinar that introduces you to two of the most important campus resources for your transition: Student Academic Success Services (SASS) and Student Wellness Services. Discover how your wellbeing and academic performance go hand in hand, and get expert tips on building healthy habits, managing stress, and staying on track — inside and outside the classroom.

Parents and supporters — we encourage you to attend too! This session will provide valuable insight into how Queen’s helps students thrive academically and personally.

✅ Open to all incoming first-year students
✅ Parents and supporters are encouraged to attend
✅ Recording available afterward 

July 28-August 3, 2025

Join Residence Life and Services to find out more about what to expect in residence: residence priorities, how we provide support, your residence meal plan, and the events and opportunities we offer to help you find community.

✅ Open to all incoming first-year students who have received acceptance into residence this fall
✅ Parents and supporters are encouraged to attend
✅ Recording available afterward 

Being the first in your family to go to university is exciting! It also comes with some unique challenges and opportunities. In this webinar, you'll hear from Meg Ferriman (she/her), Senior Director, Student Experience & Career Development (a former first-generation student) and a current first-generation student about the resources available to help you start your journey with confidence. 

✅ Open to all incoming first-year, first-generation students
✅ Recording available afterward 

Join us for the SOAR 2025 Send-Off Webinar — your final stop in the SOAR summer orientation journey before you arrive on campus. This celebration-style session is your chance to reflect on what you’ve learned, say goodbye to your Peer Ambassadors, and get ready for what’s next at Queen’s. 

We’ll reveal the SOAR Cup winning faculty, give one last round of tips, and show you how to keep the momentum going through Q-Success and University Orientation in September. 

Whether you’ve been to every event or are just checking in now, this session will tie it all together and send you off with clarity and confidence. 

✅ Open to all incoming first-year students
✅ Recording available afterward 

Let’s close this chapter together — and get ready for the next. 

August 4-10, 2025

Discover more about Fall Orientation at Queen's! Dive into what Fall Orientation is all about and learn about University and Faculty Orientation. Fall Orientation marks the beginning of your journey on campus. To help prepare you, the AMS Orientation Coordinator and University Orientation Student Lead will discuss what to expect and highlight all the key features of the Fall Orientation period! Don't miss this essential guide to your Queen's experience!

✅ Open to all incoming first-year students
✅ Recording available afterward 

August 11-17, 2025

No webinars currently scheduled for this week.

August 18-24, 2025

Join Vice-Provost and Dean of Student Affairs and upper-year students for their advice on how you can support your student's transition to university life at Queen's. Get your pre-arrival questions answered, and learn how to stay connected to the campus community throughout the year!

✅ Open to all parents, families, and supporters of incoming first-year students
✅ Recording available afterward 

Looking for more live events this summer? Don't forget to check out all the SOAR (Summer Orientation to Academics and Resources) events running in July, including virtual socials to meet your peers, opportunities to connect with upper-year peer ambassadors, and more!

Learn more about SOAR here