Wet weather doesn’t dampen move-in day for thousands of Queen’s freshmen

It happens every year on the Labour Day long weekend.

Kingston’s population grows by about 25,000 as a new crop of students from St. Lawrence College and Queen’s University move into their new homes.

This year, there are about 4,200 first-year students, and about 92 per cent of them live in one of the 17 buildings on campus.

Claire Caulfield from Alliston, Ont., said she can’t wait to get settled in at Victoria Hall.

“It didn’t hit me before and then I walked up to my room. I got really lucky. I got my own bathroom which wasn’t supposed to happen. So that’s cool. And my room is really big and it’s super nice and I am really excited,” said Caulfield.

Caulfield’s parents are there for support and said they’re extremely proud that both of their kids are now Queen’s students.

“We’re very happy with their choice. Both on an academic level and the support level that they receive. We couldn’t be happier,” admits her father, John Caulfield.

Many parents describe the move-in process as a bittersweet day with a mix of emotions.

“A little nervous… excited. But she’s going to be doing well,” said parent Karen Badali.

Hundreds of volunteers were on site around the University District to chip in to help with the heavy lifting.

While it may seem like a lot of work to move your whole life into one room, some say it’s actually the easy part.

“A little stressed about the school work. But I’ll just work hard and get through it,” said Laure Halabi, a new student from Whitby.

Staff assured there’s plenty of programs offered to first-year students to help them get comfortable in their new surroundings.

“Programs to help students get connected to the university, connected to all the services we have here and connected to the students,” said Ann Tierney, the vice-provost and dean of student affairs.

After the dust settles, there’s only one thing left on the freshman to-do list and that’s Frosh Week — when the “tri-colour spirit” really comes to life.