Komi Sugimoto: The Fruitful World of Cristo Rey!
When I first stumbled upon the Community Fellows program, I didn't anticipate the impact it would have on my life. What began as a curiosity-driven opportunity turned into a fruitful experience, opening my eyes to a world of possibilities and introducing me to Cristo Rey High School; a community that dedicates 2000% of themselves to shaping the future.
Working with the passionate individuals involved in the Corporate Work Study Program at Cristo Rey has been nothing short of inspiring. Everyone shares a common goal at the office: to invest in the success of their student’s education and their post-graduation careers. These mentors and educators are not merely clocking in and out; they are committing their time, energy, and heart to nurture the potential of every student. Their genuine care and enthusiasm create an environment where learning extends beyond textbooks and classrooms, reaching every aspect of students' lives.
When we think of education, the conventional images of classrooms, teachers, and homework often come to mind. However, Cristo Rey challenges this traditional notion by embracing a work-study model. Within the first few weeks, I was surprised at just how broad and extensive the work-study opportunities could be. Students' workplaces could range anywhere from a remote environment, to local communities neighboring Santa Clara and San Jose, or even to distant cities within the greater Baay Area like Palo Alto. Here, education isn't confined to the four walls of a classroom; it extends into the real world. Students, in addition to their regular studies, venture out once a week to work jobs that span a spectrum of size and organization models, anywhere from local businesses, corporate enterprises, and non-profit organizations.
Within my short span of time at Cristo Rey so far, I am grateful to have been given the opportunity to learn and connect with a handful of supervisors who are always eager to answer my questions and teach me to immerse myself in the greater community outside of Cristo Rey. In this internship and my time as a fellow, I hope my work and effort can also leave a lasting impact on the Cristo Rey community in the same way that others before me have been able to.