When Davi, Class of 2027, learned about Cristo Rey Boston through a friend, he was drawn to the Corporate Work Study Program. He liked the opportunity it would give to build connections and gain real-world experience. “Once I learned you could get a good job and build a network, it changed how I thought about school,” he says. Cristo Rey Boston offered a different kind of opportunity, one that opened doors he hadn’t considered before.
From the beginning, Davi found a close-knit community where students are known and supported. “It’s a small school, and people really care about your future,” he shares. Conversations with teachers after school helped him grow not only academically, but personally, shifting his mindset from simply earning good grades to understanding how learning connects to real life.
Davi’s faith also deepened during his time at CRB. In theology classes, he was encouraged to ask challenging questions and explore what he truly believed. “I had to be honest with myself, do the research, and really think,” he says. “That process strengthened my faith.”
Through Corporate Work Study, Davi gained experiences that shaped his confidence and direction. As a freshman at Saint Columbkille Partnership School, he supported Portuguese-speaking students, forming meaningful relationships with children and families. His sophomore and junior year placement at Boston College Alumni Relations exposed him to professional event planning and networking. “They trusted me and gave me responsibility,” he says. “That made me want to do my best.”
A pivotal influence in Davi’s journey has been Jim Wayman, a member of the Cristo Rey Boston Board of Trustees, who became a mentor and role model. Jim helped connect Davi to the Sankaty Head Golf Club Caddie Program, opening the door to one of the most transformative experiences of his life. “Without Jim, I wouldn’t be where I am,” Davi says. “I value his opinion and he’s someone I can always reach out to.” Jim’s guidance gave Davi the confidence to dream bigger.
Outside of school, jiu-jitsu has been another influential force in Davi’s life. Training provides structure, discipline, and a space to reset mentally. Through the sport, he has traveled internationally and built lasting relationships with mentors who continue to shape his character.
Still a junior, Davi remains open-minded about his future and continues to seek experiences that will help him grow. Through support from mentors like Jim and the CRB community, Davi’s time at Cristo Rey Boston has expanded his vision and prepared him to chart his own path forward.