To kick off First Gen Week, we’re spotlighting Brandon, an Arrupe Jesuit senior on track to become the first in his family to earn a college degree.
When Brandon was finishing at Annunciation Catholic School, choosing Arrupe Jesuit felt like a big transition. “I was a little nervous,” he said. What won him over was the Corporate Work Study Program. “Getting to work at different companies and gain experience seemed like a great opportunity for students.”
That opportunity came quickly. As a freshman, Brandon reported to the 2023-24: Colorado Energy & Carbon Management Commission in a downtown Denver high-rise, where he had his own cubicle, reviewed invoices and filed paperwork. “You don’t expect teenagers to be working there,” he said. As weeks went on, the nerves faded. “I got used to it and met people who were welcoming and helped me grow.”
Since sophomore year, Brandon has worked at Staq Pharma, a Denver company that prepares ready-to-use medications for hospitals. He works on the team that handles orders, packaging and shipping and keeps the warehouse and loading dock running. Three years with the same team has earned him a real seat at the table. “It’s nice to be seen as a good, dependable worker, someone they can count on,” he said. “Because I have more experience, they treat me like a regular employee, which I didn’t expect.”
The job has also helped him understand himself. He found he does best when he’s on the move. “I’ve learned that I prefer physical, hands-on work. In my current job, I’m constantly moving, and there’s always something to do.” Many people don’t learn this about themselves until well after college, and Brandon is taking it with him as he plans what’s next.
Outside of school and work, Brandon’s faith has grown alongside him. He is in his second year with a youth group that organizes retreats and pilgrimages, and he hopes to apply to become a youth group leader next year. One trip stands out: an international pilgrimage to Assisi, Rome and Medjugorje. “It was a meaningful experience with God,” he said, “and it helped awaken that relationship for me.”
Now Brandon is looking ahead. He has applied to several colleges, and Santa Clara University in California is his top choice. He’s hoping to be accepted and to earn scholarships that make it possible.
Asked how Arrupe has shaped him, Brandon points to the belief behind the opportunities. “Arrupe has opened my eyes to more opportunities in the world and in our community that we might not otherwise hear about,” he said. “The school offers opportunities because they believe we can do well, not just because they want us to participate. I feel that support through Corporate Work Study, clubs and sports. It feels really good to have that support.”
This First Gen Week, we’re proud to celebrate Brandon and every Arrupe Jesuit student who is the first in their family to work toward a college degree. Their families laid the foundation. Our students are building on it.
