After completing his master’s degree in English literature, Chris spent some time trying to figure out what he wanted to do with his degree and explored the area of publishing. Deciding publishing wasn’t for him, Chris then decided to try ESL teaching in Montreal and continued on to do the same in Vancouver. Itching to travel, he then spent 8 and a half years teaching in Japan!
After coming back to Vancouver, and teaching at UBC, SFU, Langara, and Alexander College, Chris was consulted on developing curriculum for Brighton College that would combine an ESL division with the vocational division of Brighton College. Liking the idea of mixing the two together, Chris went for the opportunity and is now the Campus Director and Academic Director of the downtown Brighton College campus!
What do you enjoy about your position here as Campus Director?
I enjoy the everyday challenges and surprises that come my way. I like to be involved in ongoing curriculum development and policy issues. I enjoy the constant change that goes on in the workplace and the team spirit and positive people I spend my days around.
Why did you choose to go into education?
Going into education really happened to me by chance when I was making a transition and I found enjoyment in teaching. I’m a social person and enjoy the company of other people and really like how education can expose you to people from all over the world. On a daily basis, I enjoy learning about what our international students have to share in terms of music and culture, for example. Education opens up doors for travel opportunities, and as a foreign teacher in Japan, there was less pressure to conform and lots of expectation to maintain my foreign identity as a Canadian, while still learning and exploring a new culture.
What do you like about working at Brighton College?
I enjoy the team spirit most of all. I like that we can all sit down together no matter how senior or entry level our positions are and figure out things together. Everyone has a part in the college’s progress and we are seeing the college grow and change in front of our eyes, which is really rewarding.
‘Campus Director Chris’ aside, what else do you do?
I really enjoy photography and goofing around in Photoshop.
I speak Japanese (poorly), Ukrainian (not well) and French (kind of).
I enjoy playing pool and am always up for a good pool challenge!
