Get to know our diverse and dedicated professionals who support our students in navigating their educational and career pathways. Each spotlight gives you an inside look into their experiences, passions, and expertise, offering insights into how they help students make informed decisions about their post-secondary journeys.
Brett Williams
Director of Post-Secondary Guidance
Can you tell us a little about your background and how you became a guidance consellor?
I’ve been teaching for over 20 years in various public and independent schools in BC and abroad. While most of my experience is in teaching English, I’ve always enjoyed taking on new roles. About 8 years ago, when a part-time post-secondary counselling position opened up at my previous school, I saw it as an exciting opportunity to try something different and leverage my teaching skills in a new context.
What drew you to work in student counselling, particularly in the context of post-secondary guidance?
I’m drawn to the opportunity to learn about the wide range of educational and career pathways available to students. I’ve had the chance to connect with university representatives worldwide, often discovering new programs and institutions I hadn’t been exposed to as a student myself. I enjoy sharing this knowledge with students and helping them find schools or programs that align with their interests and goals.
What is your favourite part of being a guidance counsellor?
I find it fascinating to learn about the unique experiences and motivations that shape students beyond the classroom. This role allows me to get to know students in a deeper way, and I enjoy supporting them as they make informed decisions about their futures.
What is one of the biggest challenges you face in your role, and how do you tackle it?
One challenge is encouraging students and parents to research post-secondary options beyond rankings. We emphasize the importance of connecting with university representatives, visiting campuses, and comparing different schools to find the best fit for each student’s needs. Although this requires extra effort, it helps students make more confident, informed decisions, ultimately leading to better academic and personal success.
What's one piece of advice you'd give to students who are unsure about their post-secondary options?
My advice is to remember that uncertainty is normal. Many students will change their majors at least once during their university career. Spend time reflecting on your interests, strengths, and preferred learning styles. Explore flexible programs that allow you to discover new passions. There are many pathways to success, and it’s okay to change course as you learn more about yourself.
Frank Trentadue
Post-Secondary Counsellor and Career Education Leader
Can you tell us a little about your background and how you became a guidance consellor?
I have been working in education since 1989, having taught a variety of subjects, including English, Religious Studies, Geography, and Career Education. From 2005 to 2018, I worked as a guidance counsellor in Ontario, and I have been extensively involved in coaching high school sports. Over the years, I’ve held various positions of responsibility in education, but I’ve found the greatest sense of satisfaction and fulfillment in helping students navigate their educational journeys.
What drew you to work in student counselling, particularly in the context of post-secondary guidance?
Education, to me, means providing a transformative and positive experience for students. Throughout my career, I have grown accustomed to being a guiding presence in students' lives, whether it was on the field, in the classroom, or in the guidance office. Over time, I developed a passion for post-secondary guidance driven by a deep commitment to helping students transition from high school to their future paths with confidence and clarity.
What is your favourite part of being a guidance counsellor?
One of the most rewarding aspects of being a guidance counsellor is helping students navigate the complexity of university admissions, scholarships, and career planning, especially in today’s rapidly changing and competitive world. I love breaking down that complexity, offering personalized guidance, and empowering students to see the possibilities available to them.
What is one of the biggest challenges you face in your role, and how do you tackle it?
A major challenge in my role is helping students manage the pressure and anxiety surrounding post-secondary decisions. This is especially true when students feel overwhelmed by the competitive nature of university admissions, parental expectations, or uncertainty about their future. To tackle this, I focus on providing personalized support and perspective-building. I help students break the process down into manageable steps and ensure they have the right information about academic pathways, career opportunities, and post-secondary options.
What's one piece of advice you'd give to students who are unsure about their post-secondary options?
My advice would be to embrace exploration as part of the process. It’s normal to feel uncertain, and you don’t have to have it all figured out in high school. You’ll learn more about yourself in post-secondary than at any other time in your life. Start by reflecting on what excites you, what subjects you enjoy, and what type of work environment suits you. The most important thing is to begin somewhere and stay curious throughout the journey.
Adapted from Spirit Magazine - Spring 2025