After finishing university and spending time travelling, Andrew was looking for something different before moving into the next stage of life. SnowSkool gave him the opportunity to combine skiing with the chance to live and work in Japan for a season.
Choosing Something Different
Before joining SnowSkool, Andrew had spent four years studying Sports Business in Edinburgh before heading to Australia for a year of travelling and working.
When he returned, he wanted to keep exploring new opportunities and experiences before moving into the next stage of life.
Andrew also already knew a little about SnowSkool through his family.
"My dad had previously done a SnowSkool course, so I knew they were a reputable company."
While deciding between Canada and Japan, one option stood out.
"I eventually chose Japan because it just sounded the coolest."
And it didn't disappoint.
Experiencing Japan's Famous Snow
Andrew completed his season in Hakuba, one of Japan's best-known ski destinations and a resort that attracts visitors from all over the world.
Before arriving, he'd done plenty of research and was excited to experience skiing in Japan for himself.
What quickly stood out was what makes Japanese skiing so unique.
"What Japan does have is the trees and the powder."
For Andrew, skiing through fresh snow and spending every day on the mountain became one of the biggest highlights of the entire season.
Living Right Next to the Slopes
One of the biggest advantages of Andrew's season was being based directly in the resort itself.
His accommodation was only around a ten-minute walk from the ski school, making early mornings and getting onto the mountain incredibly easy.
"Having it essentially on your doorstep was definitely something I enjoyed."
Even better, Andrew ended up living with the same SnowSkool group he had trained with in Saas-Fee.
"It ended up being the four SnowSkool guys we trained with in Saas-Fee all living together."
Living with familiar faces helped create a great atmosphere from the start and made settling into life in Japan feel natural.
Life as a Ski Instructor
Hakuba proved to be one of the busiest resorts for SnowSkool participants, bringing in visitors from all over the world throughout the season.
For Andrew, this meant plenty of opportunities to get out on the slopes and build experience.
"We had lots and lots of work."
Teaching regularly helped him develop quickly as an instructor and gave him confidence working with different types of clients.
Most lessons were private sessions, meaning he could work closely with individuals and families while helping people improve their skiing.
Andrew also found that teaching wasn't always just about words.
"You end up doing a lot of demonstrations and showing people rather than just explaining things."
Settling Into Life in Japan
Moving to a new country can feel like a big step, but Andrew felt well supported throughout the process.
The ski school helped instructors settle into life in Japan by assisting with practical things like shopping, getting organised and navigating local processes.
"They helped us through everything."
Having that support made adjusting to a completely new country feel much easier and allowed Andrew to focus on enjoying the experience.
More Than Just Skiing
While skiing was naturally a huge part of the season, there was also plenty happening away from the slopes.
Hakuba has a lively atmosphere and offered lots of opportunities to socialise and enjoy life outside of work.
"You could definitely go out and have fun outside skiing."
From restaurants and bars to events happening throughout the season, there was always something going on.
Looking Ahead
After spending time travelling and completing his season in Japan, Andrew is now looking ahead to the next chapter.
Although he's exploring career opportunities, the experience has definitely left a lasting impression.
"There's always that little thought in the back of my head about doing another season."
Andrew's Advice
For anyone considering the SnowSkool programme, Andrew believes it's an opportunity worth taking.
"It can be the first stepping stone towards a career in the snow sports industry."
Whether it's building qualifications, improving your skiing or simply experiencing life somewhere completely new, Andrew's season in Japan gave him memories and experiences that will stay with him long after the snow melts.
If you want to experience the life of an instructor, join the Saas Fee, Switzerland and Japan Ski Internship