As part of their Full Circle Series, the Cristo Rey Network highlights Cristo Rey graduates currently employed for their former Corporate Work Study partners. Their latest article focuses on CR Alum Robert Ramirez ('05) who is still employed by his CWSP employer, Brinks, Gilson & Lione. ​​​​​​​

When 15-year-old Robert began working for Brinks, Gilson & Lione in high school, he didn't think he would still be there 17 years later. Now serving as the firm's Associate Recruitment and Diversity Manager, Robert recognizes that sometimes your future starts sooner than you think.

A 2005 alumnus of Cristo Rey Jesuit High School in Chicago, Robert continued his education at Lewis University, where he graduated with his bachelor's degree in business administration.

"In high school, I was working for another company before Brinks, Gilson & Lione. When I found out I had to move to a different Corporate Partner, I was excited, but also sad to leave the friends I made. That one move of switching Corporate Partners changed my life – I didn't know it at the time."

"While I was in college, I worked during school breaks. I was really a part of the family – everyone looked out for me." During his time at the firm, Robert has served in various capacities within the human resources department. In his current role, he manages job fairs, diversity and inclusion initiatives, coordinates campus interviews with prospective candidates, and oversees pipeline programs with partner high schools.

Robert currently supervises a Cristo Rey student working at Brinks, Gilson & Lione, and tries to offer advice as someone who was once in their shoes. His advice: "Don't take Cristo Rey for granted. At first, most students attend the school because their parents tell them to. I was the same way. This experience will fly by – make the most of it."