Good morning, everyone!
My name is Oscar Gonzalez, and I am a proud graduate of Cristo Rey St. Martin, Class
of 2017. I attended the College of the Holy Cross in Worcester, Massachusetts and
graduated in 2021. Currently, I work at Abbott as an Accounts Payable Specialist and
serve as an Assistant Soccer Coach for CRSM.
Today, I’m honored to share my journey with the CWSP program and reflect on the
remarkable changes at CRSM over the years. My graduating class was the last to walk
the halls of the old school building. We’ve seen many changes: a new building, a new
soccer field, and thankfully, no more cramped hallways! Speaking of which, that picture
in the hallway of all those crowded students was taken during my freshman year,
capturing many of my classmates.
But what hasn’t changed? I want to share a story from my freshman year in Spanish
class. Mr. Pradas, who still teaches here, imparted a life lesson that stuck with me
throughout high school and college. He asked us, “You have four years of high school
and four years of college. Would you rather work hard for eight years and enjoy an
easier life afterward, or slack off for four years and struggle for 40 years?” Well, Mr.
Pradas, I worked my butt off for eight years, and life is still challenging! Just
kidding—but this lesson is still being told today. My younger brother, who currently
attends CRSM, recently shared the same story from Mr. Pradas. This shows that
despite the new building, the core values of CRSM, the caring teachers and staff, and
the supportive business partners continue to help shape and develop the minds of our
future leaders.
Now, let’s reflect on my CWSP experience. Looking back to summer 2013, I vividly
remember the weeklong CWSP training—working with Microsoft Office, answering
phone calls, and practicing proper handshakes. After that, we took a weekend trip to St.
Mary’s for further training, where I made lasting friendships and memories. Not long
after, I still recall my driver, Maria, and CWSP coordinator, Mr. Chavez, taking me to my
first job at Gewalt Hamilton Associates. I was so nervous that my legs were shaking,
and I told Mr. Chavez, “I don’t think I can do this.” With a few encouraging words, I
walked in and shook my supervisor Mirna’s hand.
During my time at Gewalt Hamilton, I primarily worked with the Accounts Payable team.
Some of my most memorable moments were when Donald Dixon and Patrick Glenn
would stop by my desk to assign me tasks like scanning, printing, and cutting large
blueprints using large, advanced printers. Their patience and guidance were invaluable
during my freshman and sophomore years.
In the summer of 2015, before my junior year, I had the incredible opportunity to attend
Brown University’s summer college program. It was there that I realized how different
my high school experience was compared to many of my peers and how fortunate I was
to be a CRSM student. I received comments like, “That’s great networking!” and “What
valuable work experience!” This perspective transformed my mindset as I entered my
junior-year internship at Discover Financial Services, which was life-changing.
While CWSP and CRSM emphasized the importance of dress code and networking,
DFS reinforced these lessons through various Lunch & Learns. Their professional
culture taught me about effective communication, workplace culture, time management,
and the immense benefits of networking. These skills helped me in building a great
relationship with manager, senior manager, and director which allowed me to take on
more responsibilities and ownership. Additionally, my time at DFS helped me expand
my LinkedIn network at a young age.
Why is this important? Through professionalism, communication, and networking, I was
able to continue interning at DFS throughout college. During winter and summer breaks,
I assisted the AP Team and even worked remotely during my senior year as part of an
internship class. This experience not only enriched my professional background but also
helped me support my parents in paying for college. The money I earned during those
breaks covered my textbooks, school supplies, and more. After college, I was offered a
full-time role at DFS and was part of their CRSM Leadership Team working closely with
the CRSM students.
Recently, I joined the AP Team at Abbott, where I continue to expand my knowledge in
accounts payable and finance. This transition was possible because Abbott recognized
my high school and college work experience. The managers who interviewed me were
familiar with the CWSP program since Abbott is a Business Partner, which helped me
stand out among other applicants.
To wrap up, I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to CRSM and the CWSP program. I
am where I am today because of your unwavering support. A special thank you to all
the Business Partners for your partnership and continued support.