At Arrupe Jesuit High School, our Corporate Work Study Program (CWSP) is built on the belief that when students are given the opportunity to work in real-world environments, they grow in confidence, develop critical skills, and begin to see their futures with greater clarity and purpose. One of our dedicated CWSP partners, Mi Casa Resource Center, embodies this mission by not only offering meaningful work experience to our students but by deeply investing in their growth. We spoke with the Mi Casa team to learn more about how the partnership works, what their Arrupe Jesuit students contribute, and the impact this collaboration has had on their organization.
What do Arrupe students work on at Mi Casa, and which department do they support?
The Arrupe Jesuit interns support the Administration team at Mi Casa Resource Center. Their role is essential in ensuring the front desk and facility operate smoothly so that employees, clients, and visitors have a welcoming and efficient experience. Interns provide front desk coverage—greeting guests, answering phones, and managing emails—particularly during times when staff are in meetings or training.
Beyond the front desk, they help maintain the coffee station, assist with daily meeting and training room setups, manage monthly supply inventories, and distribute incoming deliveries. During Mi Casa’s Computer and Digital Tutoring hours, students help clients with basic tech needs and contribute to research projects and client feedback initiatives. Their work supports both the external-facing and internal operations of Mi Casa, making them a vital part of the team.
Why did Mi Casa choose to partner with Arrupe Jesuit?
As a nonprofit focused on advancing the economic prosperity of the Latino community, Mi Casa often operates with limited resources. Partnering with Arrupe Jesuit allows the organization to expand its capacity, especially in administrative functions, without compromising the quality of service.
“The support of the interns enables our staff to attend critical meetings and complete important tasks that might otherwise be delayed,” the team shared. “The partnership provides meaningful, hands-on experience for the students while strengthening our operations. It’s a relationship rooted in empowerment, access, and shared growth.”
How does this partnership align with Mi Casa’s mission and values?
Mi Casa’s mission is to advance the economic prosperity of the Latino community through career, business, and educational support. At its core, this work is about creating pathways, especially for young people, to access opportunity and achieve long-term economic mobility.
“This partnership embodies our mission,” they shared. “By offering students a chance to earn financial support while gaining real-world experience, we are equipping them with the skills and confidence needed to thrive in higher education and the workforce. It’s more than a work placement, it’s an investment in future leaders.”
What kind of growth have you seen in your Arrupe students since they began?
“The growth has been remarkable,” the Mi Casa team shared. “We’ve seen students increase their confidence, especially in handling front desk responsibilities and providing customer service.” Students have also strengthened their Spanish communication and translation skills, developed sharper research abilities, and taken initiative in completing independent tasks.
The students’ communication with staff has also evolved, becoming more professional and intentional. “They’re becoming more active contributors to the team, and it’s inspiring to watch them take ownership of their development.”
How has hiring an Arrupe student positively impacted your team or workplace culture?
The interns have made a tremendous impact on both productivity and workplace morale. “They increase our capacity and bring fresh energy and perspective,” said the team. “Staff feel more supported and are able to better focus on clients knowing that essential front desk duties are handled with care and consistency.”
One unexpected but meaningful impact has been the peace of mind the interns provide during staff time off. “They’re reliable and capable, and their presence contributes to a more collaborative and less stressful work environment.”
What has been your favorite moment working with your student(s)?
“Watching the students step into their confidence has been the most rewarding part,” the team said. “Many arrive unsure or hesitant, especially with responsibilities like answering phones or assisting clients, but over time, they grow into capable, confident young professionals.”
One standout student this year is Xitalli, who joined the Mi Casa team with limited prior experience. “She quickly became one of our most eager and dependable interns,” they shared. “She takes initiative, completes tasks with pride, and always asks how she can help.” One unforgettable moment came when Xitalli calmly and effectively handled a real emergency in the office. “It was a defining moment that showed just how much she had grown.”
What advice would you give other companies considering partnering with Arrupe Jesuit?
“Don’t hesitate,” Mi Casa’s staff said enthusiastically. “Partnering with Arrupe Jesuit has added tremendous value, not just in terms of productivity, but in mentorship and mission alignment.” They emphasized that the experience is both rewarding and impactful, noting that most students come in eager, curious, and ready to learn. “Supporting their growth isn’t just helpful, it’s deeply meaningful.”
Is there anything else you’d like to share?
“Our interns have truly become part of the Mi Casa family,” they said. “Their presence is felt not just in the tasks they complete but in the positive spirit they bring into the space. When they’re away during school breaks, the whole team notices. We are incredibly grateful for this partnership. It’s hard to imagine our days without these dedicated, inspiring students.”
We are deeply thankful to the team at Mi Casa Resource Center for their openness, mentorship, and belief in our students. Partnerships like this one help bring the mission of the Corporate Work Study Program to life and prove that when the Arrupe Jesuit students are given real opportunities, they rise to meet them.
To learn more about how your organization can support CWSP at Arrupe Jesuit, visit:
https://arrupejesuit.com/corporate-work-study-program
Together, we’re shaping futures—one student at a time.
