1. You’re part of the King’s community from day one
Thanks to King’s and Dalhousie’s shared Faculty of Arts & Social Sciences and the Faculty of Science, no matter how many classes you take on the Dal campus you’ll remain a King’s Student throughout your degree. You’ll graduate during King’s Encaenia and become a member of our Alumni Association—the oldest in Canada!
2. Check your student email!
All communication from the university (including residence) goes through your Dal email. You should check that email once a day to be informed and keep on top of things. If you struggle with managing two emails, you can always forward all emails from your student email to your personal email.
3. Download the DalSafe mobile app
The DalSafe mobile app helps students stay informed and connected while on campus. It provides quick access to Dal Security and includes a range of safety features and campus alerts, such as:
- Safe walking services: share your location with Dal Security or a trusted friend while walking to your destination.
- Working alone registration: register when you’re studying or working alone on campus so Dal Security can check in if needed.
- Report non-urgent safety concerns: submit non-urgent reports such as vandalism, theft or facility safety issues.
- Subscribe to text alerts: receive urgent notifications about emergencies, campus closures and other important safety updates.
4. Classics in the Quad
The King’s Theatrical Society (KTS) is one of King’s most popular student societies. Each fall, for Classics in the Quad, the KTS chooses an Ancient Greek play to perform on the steps of the King’s Library while members of the community watch on from the lawn of the Quad. As the story progresses, the sun sets, the lights hanging from the trees flicker on and the Quad’s magical ambience sets the scene for our talented cast, who are often first- and second-year students.
5. Big Night
Have a secret (or not-so-secret) talent? Each year, as a culmination of the Open Mic series in the Wardroom, King’s Residence Life hosts Big Night, a talent show celebration for our students, staff and faculty. Each year features something new, whether it’s a short film debut, an original song performance, someone showing off their dance skills or a student performing in drag!
6. The King’s Library Archives
The Library’s Treasure Room, which houses King’s Archives and Special Collections, contains a variety of extremely interesting artifacts, books and documents related to the university’s past, including the Royal Charter granted by King George III, making the University of King’s College the oldest English-speaking chartered university in the Commonwealth. Much of the collection can be viewed online (including digitized versions of our student yearbook, The Record), but students should keep their eyes peeled for opportunities to visit during a class or special tour opportunities!
7. Explore Halifax
Halifax quickly becomes an extension of the King’s experience, so don’t be afraid to explore beyond campus early! Grab a coffee on Spring Garden Road, spend an afternoon at the Halifax waterfront or take a walk through Point Pleasant Park when you need a break from studying. From local bookstores and cozy cafes to live music, farmers’ markets and city festivals, Halifax has plenty of places to recharge, connect and make the city feel like home.
8. The Wardroom is more than just a café
Almost every King’s student ends up spending time in the Wardroom. It’s where you’ll grab coffee between classes, meet friends, study, attend events and often bump into professors and staff. If you’re over at Dal for most classes, the Wardroom remains one of the easiest places to reconnect with the King’s community.
9. Don’t wait to ask for help
One of the advantages of being a King’s student is having access to support services at both King’s and Dalhousie. Whether you’re figuring out your schedule, adjusting to university life or simply feeling overwhelmed, there are people ready to help—from academic advising and accessibility services to health, wellness and community supports. Reaching out early can make all the difference; you never have to navigate university on your own.
10. Free meals when you need them
Need a budget-friendly lunch? The Loaded Ladle, located in the Dal Student Union Building (SUB), serves free, homemade meals during the academic year and is a great resource to keep in mind. King’s students can also enjoy free vegan soup at the Wardroom every Wednesday through a partnership with the Loaded Ladle.
