Introduction

     Oakton counselors live busy lives, looking out for what is best for students and maintaining a safe school environment. Mr. Bade is in his second year of counseling at Oakton and is the counselor for students with the last names Sem-Turn. 

Mr. Bades Background

     Mr. Bade grew up an hour north of New York City and obtained his degree from Alfred University. He eventually moved to Virginia for graduate school. Apparently, counseling wasn’t always the clear career choice for him. “At first I was thinking of going into pharmacy because I loved my chemistry class in high school.” He was at a “difficult crossroad” about what he truly wanted to be. “I feel like I am naturally good at talking to people.” This ultimately led him to the discovery that counseling is a good fit for him. He also mentioned that his own counselor in high school was very helpful for him and ultimately inspired his choice as well. It is safe to say that Mr. Bade made a great choice when he decided to become a counselor. 

Counseling at Oakton

    Counselors are so important to our Oakton community. “My favorite thing about Oakton is getting to sit down with the students and discuss the things that are stressing them out,” Bade said. It is very helpful and comforting to know that he enjoys helping his students. “I became a counselor so that I could help the students that may be struggling form a  positive trajectory,” he added. It is very important that students know that they have these resources available, all counselors, similar to Mr. Bade, are here to give any of that extra support you may need. When asked about his favorite thing about Oakton, it was the “general sense of community that Oakton has,” he acknowledged and praised the amount of students who showed up to the away game that was on September 9th. Bade also added that “every new student I have seen has been able to make friends,” further exemplifying Oakton’s inclusive community.