Inbound at Smith: how classes, groups and grades work

Welcome to Smith! Every year hundreds of exchange students arrive at Queen's, and most tell us the same thing: the classes work a little differently from home. I've been on both sides of exchange, having spent Winter 2026 at Maastricht, so here's what to expect in your first weeks at Goodes Hall.

Participation counts

In many Smith courses, a real part of your grade comes from contributing in class. Professors learn names and notice who speaks up. If that's new to you, start small: ask a question in week one, build on a classmate's point, or share an example from your home country. Your international perspective is genuinely valued.

Group projects are everywhere

Expect at least one group project per course. Groups are often assigned, and you'll usually be the only exchange student in yours. Book a group study room in Goodes Hall early, agree on deadlines in the first meeting and use a shared document from the start. Local students are busy with clubs and recruiting, so clear communication goes a long way.

Grading and exams

Queen's uses letter grades on a 4.3 GPA scale. Courses typically mix assignments, a midterm, participation and a final exam or project. Check each course outline on day one; it lists every deadline and weighting. Ask your home university how Smith grades convert before you arrive.

Getting around Goodes Hall

Goodes Hall is the home of Smith on the Queen's campus. You'll find classrooms, study spaces and the commerce student society offices there. The Queen's library system, especially Stauffer, is great for quiet study. Your student card gets you into buildings and onto Kingston Transit.

Making friends beyond other exchange students

It's easy to stay in an exchange bubble. Join a club through the Commerce Society, go to a varsity hockey or football game, and try intramurals. Canadian students are friendly but busy; inviting a group-project partner for coffee is the fastest way to make local friends.

Winter is part of the experience

If you arrive for the winter term, buy proper boots and a warm coat as soon as you land. Kingston's lake winds are serious. The upside: skating on the rink at Springer Market Square, and the whole campus feels cosy once snow falls.

Weekend trips

Kingston sits between Toronto, Ottawa and Montreal, each a few hours by train or bus. The Thousand Islands are right on the doorstep. Group bookings on VIA Rail and Megabus keep costs down.

Final tips

Read your course outlines, speak up early, treat group work seriously and say yes to every invitation. Check our Kingston Inbound Kit for SIM, transit and grocery picks, and follow @exchangehubqueens to meet other inbound students.