javi7830

happened to me too! didn't even make the wait list.

I was also notified today that I have been awarded a SSHRC CGS. I haven't received the letter in the mail, but Grad Studies sent me a notification. I'm doing my MA in Psych btw.

I too have debt from my undergrad (was about $18,000). I took a year off between my bachelor's and master's and ended up paying a few thousand off, BUT as soon as I enrolled in school again, I made sure to contact National Student Loans (I'm in Canada) to inform them of me going back to school. That way, I could defer payments until I was done school again. Personally, I would rather have a little bit in my savings account in case of an emergency than use it to pay down my debt (since interest doesn't accumulate while I'm in school).

I know you posted this awhile ago, but I figured I'd respond since no one else has: I lived in Kingston for awhile, and was advised not to live in the "student ghetto". Basically, most of the houses surrounding the university are inhabited by undergrads, so if you're not interested in living in a party house, I would advise you to get an apartment a little further away. The cost for rent isn't bad (about $500-$600/month), but if you opt to live "downtown" (on Princess Street), rent can be a lot more. There are some nice apartments located above restaurants, yoga studios, clothing stores, etc. in Kingston. Student life is buzzing all year round, even in the summer. I would consider it a "party school", as I was awoken by rowdy undergrads on a regular basis (which is why I'd suggest not living too close to campus if that's not your scene). Queen's is walking distance to downtown Kingston, and it's really close to the water. There are TONS of restaurants in Kingston, which I really enjoyed. There are also little shops on Princess Street. Overall, it's a great place to live, despite it being super far from other major cities.

I have also been lurking for awhile, and waiting...then lurking some more. It's good to hear that I'm not the only one still waiting for the results (I am also an MA applicant). Everyone's updates have been really helpful!