Photo © Courtesy of St. Michaels University School
St. Michaels University School (SMUS) is an independent day (JK to Grade 12) and boarding (Grade 9 to 12) school in Victoria, B.C.
“We believe that education in a diverse and inclusive environment prepares students to thrive in the real world,” explained Eliot Anderson, director of senior school and deputy head of school at SMUS. “Being a school that welcomes students from all communities reflects the broad spectrum of perspectives, identities and experiences they will encounter beyond the classroom.”
Preparing Students for the Future
One-on-one academic and career advising is a cornerstone of personalized support at St. Michaels University School. Advisers work closely with students to help them identify their strengths and interests while guiding them toward future-focused pathways.
“When current parents talk about SMUS, they highlight the community of people their child gets to interact with daily, from current students to the staff and faculty to the wonderfully connected alumni who are still engaging with the school regularly,” Anderson said.
SMUS has more than 60 clubs and councils where students can engage in activities that align with their passions and aspirations. Many of these clubs are career-focused, such as the Entrepreneurship Club, Business Club, Investment Club, Engineering Club, Med Talks and Coding/Hack Club, offering exposure to specific fields.
“We’re also excited to launch a new club called Future Focus, where students invite professionals from various industries to share insights about their careers and work experiences,” shared Ruth McGhee, director of university counselling at SMUS. “We also connect students with mentors through our alumni network,” McGhee continued. “Students have the opportunity to engage with SMUS alumni or other professionals in fields of interest, learning directly from their experiences and gaining valuable networking skills.”
A key component of career exploration is a one-on-one interview every student conducts with a professional in their field of interest. These interviews encourage students to ask thoughtful questions about industry trends, technological advancements and how the profession may evolve in the coming decade.
“By combining self-discovery, practical experience and mentorship, we aim to empower students to make informed decisions about their futures with confidence and purpose,” McGhee said.
Leading Beyond the Classroom
Looking ahead to life after graduation, leadership programming is becoming even more crucial in an increasingly complex world.
“When you engage in real, authentic leadership, you are developing a whole suite of human skills or soft skills, including collaboration, building relationships, resolving conflicts, active listening, seeking other perspectives and moving a group toward a goal,” explained Richard Primrose, senior school assistant director, student life and leadership, at St. Michaels University School. “These are all leadership skills and the human skills that AI will not be able to replace.”
At SMUS, student councils play a key role in developing leadership skills. The school has eight councils: athletics, arts, academics, interculture, well-being, outdoor, sustainability and service. Each council has two elected Grade 12 heads who plan and run meetings, organize and execute events, and more.
“It’s a microcosm of what leadership looks like in the real world,” says Primrose. “They’re getting a truly authentic snapshot of the leadership experience.”
A prime example of the school’s commitment to leadership and community is an annual fundraiser for Cops for Cancer, an initiative between first responders and the Canadian Cancer Society that raises money through cycling tours and other events. The arts and service councils take the lead in organizing an assembly, a concert and other fundraising opportunities. With initiatives like these, Primrose says, “It’s very much led and driven by students…with adults in the background.”
Learn more at smus.ca
Get your free copy of Global Heroes, jam-packed with positive news, straight in your inbox.
Located in Victoria, BC, St. Michaels University School is a Junior Kindergarten to Grade 12 boarding and day school that provides outstanding preparation for life.