Parent FAQ
Here are some answers to commonly-asked questions. If you don’t find your answer here, contact us!
I want to talk to Residence staff about my daughter/son, but have been told that you cannot release any information without their permission? Why?
Queen’s University and Queen’s Housing & Hospitality is bound by the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (FIPPA), to maintain confidentiality of any student information. This information can only be released to your student if he/she is over the age of 16, and it can only be released to you if your student gives Queen’s Housing & Hospitality Services written authorization to do so.
We encourage your student to call us directly with any questions or concerns – this will help them in the transition to a more independent lifestyle and may also help to make them more comfortable when speaking with other University staff or professors.
My son says there’s nothing to eat in the dining halls.
The best way for you to see what’s cooking is to check out our online menus – menus are posted weekly, along with nutritional information for each item. Most meal plans also offer meal equivalencies to allow students to use their plans at many of our retail outlets.
Residence Dining Halls are part of the Eat Smart program and offer a range of hot and cold menu items at every meal, along with vegetarian/vegan offerings and daily specials. We also have a nutritionist on staff should your son have a special diet or require help choosing menu items.
My daughter hasn’t called in days – how do I find out if she’s ok?
Students get caught up in their own lives at university – studies, social activities, a new partner, volunteer opportunities – all of these things can mean that she isn’t calling as often.
If you are truly concerned about your daughter, you can contact our Residence Life Office. We’ll pass on your concerns to our Residence Life staff and have them check on her – they will not, however, call you back (that responsibility lies with your daughter). Of course, please let us know at any time if you feel that your daughter is at any health or safety risk that we should know about.
How safe are the Residences?
We strive to provide a safe and secure environment in Residence, however students also share responsibility for personal security. Students should never leave their doors unlocked or allow unescorted non-residents into the building. Campus Security also offers a 24-hour Emergency Report Centre (dial 36111 from a residence room) and Blue Light emergency telephones throughout campus.
Students with night classes or who are walking alone at night should call the AMS Walkhome Service, a free and friendly service run by student, for students. The AMS Shuttle Bus also runs nightly, beginning around 10:30 pm on weeknights (earlier on weekends).
How much drinking and partying goes on in Residence? How noisy is it?
The environment on each floor is largely dependent on how students develop their community. We urge all students to adopt a high standard of respect for their fellow residents, and to contribute to an environment that’s conducive to study and sleep.
All students are expected to read and understand our Residence Rules and Regulations. As well, our live-in student and professional staff work together with students to create communities of respect.
Who cleans the Residences?
Residences common spaces and washrooms are cleaned by our Facilities staff, however students also share responsibility for keeping their building clean and tidy.
Who can my son or daughter talk to if they need help in Residence?
We’re proud of our Residence Life Team who work together to support students and contribute to their residence experience. Students are introduced to Residence Life team members at Orientation, and are welcome to speak with the Don on their floor or with a Residence Life Coordinator about any issue.