As Senior School students begin to navigate the path to life beyond graduation, one of the most important resources they have is the support of the Post-Secondary Guidance Department. At Southridge, the guidance team plays a pivotal role in helping students make informed decisions about their futures. Here’s a closer look at the department’s invaluable services and how it assists students in preparing for life after high school.

GUIDING STUDENTS THROUGH CAREER EDUCATION

Students are encouraged to explore different interests/aptitudes to gain insights into possible career options and various post-secondary pathways through the Career Education courses they take in Grades 8-12. The career education program for Grade 8-9 students focuses on self-discovery. Students receive support as they make discoveries about their interests and themselves. They are encouraged to try many different things, including joining school sports and co-curriculars, which fuels their emotional well-being by making friends, pursuing interests/passions, and pushing limits by getting outside their comfort zones. It is also important for students at this stage to focus on developing executive functioning skills, refining work habits, and establishing healthy living patterns, such as establishing healthy eating and sleep habits, and getting enough physical activity.

Students in Grades 10 and 11 can meet with guidance counsellors one-on-one to discuss their academic and career aspirations. This is the time when students start developing a  personalized plan in terms of their course selections. This way students can make plans and explore pathways relevant to their specific interests, skills, and goals. Our Grade 11 students work closely with guidance counsellors to refine their comprehensive post-secondary plan based on their unique skills and goals for the future. They are supported in the development of this plan by engaging in a series of programs and initiatives—such as career fairs, mentorships, and university visits. This allows students to gain exposure to a wide range of opportunities that help them refine their goals. Every student is encouraged to have a well researched, realistic, and narrow list of options by the end of their Grade 11 year.

By Grade 12, the department’s involvement intensifies as the post-secondary guidance department helps students develop their university applications, revise supplemental applications if required, and troubleshoot any issues with admissions. The department strives to provide individualized support to ensure each student is making choices that are right for them.

HELPING STUDENTS CHOOSE THE RIGHT PATH

One of the most common challenges for students is determining which post-secondary path is right for them. “At Southridge, the department emphasizes the importance of finding the "best fit" for each student,” says Brett Williams, Post-Secondary Guidance Director. “This concept of fit goes beyond just academic requirements—it takes into account factors like personal interests, learning styles, and the type of campus culture a student wants to experience.”

Counsellors help students reflect on their strengths and values, ensuring they select a pathway that aligns with their goals. They are encouraged to visit campuses, attend virtual tours, and speak with current students and alumni to provide valuable insight when making final decisions.

OVERCOMING PRESSURE AND NAVIGATING CHALLENGES

The pressure to have everything figured out can be overwhelming for many students and it’s unrealistic for them to know exactly what they will do for the rest of their lives at such a young age. Counsellors at Southridge are there to remind students that their journey is unique.

"It’s not uncommon for students to change their minds or explore new areas of interest as they grow and gain new experiences while taking post-secondary courses,” explains Mr. Williams. “As one matures and has new experiences and has the opportunity to interact and engage with new topics and people, it’s only natural that shifts in perspective or priorities occur.”

A SUCCESS STORY: CLARITY THROUGH EXPLORATION

One success story that stands out involves a student who came to the guidance department uncertain about their future. “Although a high achiever, they struggled to identify their passion and felt overwhelmed by the pressure to choose a prestigious university abroad,” explains Mr. Frank Trentadue, Post Secondary Counsellor.

Since most Southridge students typically look towards the university pathway, it’s important for them to examine various components that are strong indicators of an applicant’s success both in being admitted and in their time spent at the post-secondary institution. Therefore, students are encouraged to consider:

• Academic average/achievement in prerequisite courses
• How they learn best/particular learning needs
• Class sizes
• Cost of tuition
• Campus size and location
• Housing and travel
• Proximity to home/family
• Unique opportunities offered Southridge

“Through one-on-one counselling and exploration, the student discovered a passion for STEM-related fields and found that a small liberal arts school in the US is the best fit for them. The student is excited to begin this journey which should provide a balance between their academic and creative interests,” says Mr. Trentadue.

A WEALTH OF RESOURCES AND CONNECTIONS

In addition to personalized counselling, the guidance department stays up-to-date on the latest trends in post-secondary education and career opportunities. Through memberships in national organizations such as the National Association of College Admissions Counselling (NACAC) and the Canadian Independent School Counsellors (CISC), Southridge’s guidance counsellors can attend workshops, conferences, and seminars to stay informed about the ever-changing landscape of higher education.

The department also fosters a strong relationship with teachers, parents, and alumni to ensure that students are supported both academically and emotionally. By hosting information sessions for parents, offering personalized updates in The Wednesday, and creating opportunities for alumni mentorship through Southridge Alumni’s ASK Mentorship Program, Fireside Chats, and Career Day, the guidance team creates a collaborative network that helps students succeed.

LOOKING AHEAD: THE FUTURE OF GUIDANCE AT SOUTHRIDGE

As the educational landscape continues to evolve, the Post-Secondary Guidance Department at Southridge remains committed to providing students with the most up-to-date information and personalized support. By focusing on the individual needs of each student and fostering collaboration with teachers, parents, and alumni, the guidance team ensures that students are well-prepared for life beyond Southridge, ready to take on future challenges and opportunities.

Contributed by Parveen Loodu, Communications and Marketing
Originally published in Spirit Magazine - Spring 2025