Gap Year Goals?
Let’s Talk Whistler!
WAS Newsletter 05 2025
Thinking about taking a gap year or studying in Canada? This month’s newsletter is packed with ideas to fuel your next adventure.
Our Latin American Advisor Virginia shares why Whistler Adventure School is a perfect fit for Mexican students. From immersive learning to mountain-town vibes, it’s a one-of-a-kind opportunity to grow, explore, and connect.
We also feature one of our top instructors, Monte, who teaches alpine climbing, backcountry hiking, survival, and experiential learning. In our exclusive discussion, he dives into the Ski Guide Program—an exciting path for those who want to turn their love for snow and mountains into a career.
Plus, don’t miss our live virtual sessions happening throughout June! We’ve set times that work for Europe, Latin America, and Canada and the USA, so you can join from anywhere, ask your questions, and see what life at WAS is all about.
Your next adventure starts now.
Keep Exporting
The WAS Team
New Blog: Gap Year Opens New Doors
Virginia, our Latin Marketing and Admissions Manager shares gap year tips for Mexican students as they look for opportunities to study abroad. Read the full blog!
Meet Monte: Leading the Way in Backcountry Skiing at WAS
Monte brings a rare blend of expertise, humility, and real-world experience to the mountains—and the classroom. As an instructor at Whistler Adventure School, he teaches Ski Guide, Alpine Climbing, Backcountry Hiking, Survival, and Experiential Leadership. This winter, we’re highlighting the Ski Guide course and asked Monte to share a few insights.
What’s the most exciting thing students will learn in your course?
“Backcountry skiing can be intimidating because of how difficult it can be to really quantify the various hazards that can be encountered—from snow safety and avalanches to glacier travel and navigation. I think the most exciting part of this course is when the hard work is paying off and you start getting more proficient at recognizing and managing these hazards, and you realize that you have the skills to tackle a backcountry line that you like or are comfortable making that go/no-go decision on a ski/snowboard descent.”
Can you share one skill or insight students leave your class feeling confident about?
“I think the biggest thing that students will leave the course with is an understanding of their own skills and they will have the confidence to get out and explore the backcountry without their instructor.”
How does your course prepare students for real-world challenges or adventures?
“Aside from being an amazing training course for anyone that wants to pursue a career as a ski/snowboard guide or work in that industry, the course teaches the students a structured approach to risk management and decision making. A hugely valuable life skill.”
What inspired you to teach at Whistler Adventure School? What’s one piece of advice you give your students that you wish you’d known earlier in your career?
“I found that most teachers were very focused on traditional career paths when I was younger—go to school and become an engineer (which I did), a teacher, a doctor, etc. However, there are so many amazing careers out there. My advice would be to chase what you’re interested in, regardless of whether or not it looks like a ‘real’ job and the rest will fall into place.”
If you could take any course at WAS, which one would you pick and why?
“The Ski/Snowboard Guide course. For anyone that loves to ski or snowboard, this course is an amazing opportunity to get a really good understanding of what it is to be a guide in general as well as a ski/snowboard guide—all while gaining valuable backcountry skills in one of the world’s ski meccas.”
Rapid Fire Fun with Monte
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What’s your go-to trail snack or après-ski treat?
“Miso soup in my thermos—salty goodness!” -
If you were a piece of outdoor gear, what would you be and why?
“I would be the multi-tool. I’m not great at any one thing but can do a little bit of everything and in a pinch, you would definitely want me around.” -
Tell us one thing about you that would surprise your students!
“I am a private pilot and really enjoy spending my down time flying around the coast range and beyond.”
Interested in stepping into the world of guiding and backcountry adventure?
Monte’s Ski Guide course offers more than technical knowledge—it builds confidence, sharpens judgment, and instills a love for wild places.
Stay tuned for more instructor stories and behind-the-scenes looks into life at Whistler Adventure School.
Join our Free Student Virtual Information Sessions
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Monday, June 9 – 9:00 AM Vancouver / 6:00 PM Europe (CEST)
Explore. Learn. Shred. – Your Whistler Adventure Starts Here! with Martina
Join Martina live to uncover what it’s really like to study and live in Whistler, BC—home to world-class adventure and hands-on learning. Whether you’re into biking, skiing, or digital creativity, this session will help you imagine your own Whistler experience.Tuesday, June 17 – 10:00 AM Vancouver / 12:00 PM Mexico City / 7:00 PM Europe (CEST)
Navigating the Immigration Process to Study in Canada with Shelley
Learn everything you need to know about visas, study permits, and how to legally work while studying in Canada. Shelley will walk you through the essential steps and answer your questions about making your move smooth and successful.Thursday, June 26 – 5:00 PM Vancouver / 6:00 PM Mexico City
What’s Next? Discover WAS: Study, Work & Adventure in Whistler, Canada with Virginia
Thinking about your next step? Join Virginia to explore how Whistler Adventure School blends study, work, and outdoor fun into one unforgettable experience in Canada.
Make sure to sign up to our Facebook Group. We’ll be posting any opportunities in Whistler through this private group!
1. Log into Facebook
2. Search for “WAS Student Page”
3. Request to Join.
