Beyond Belen

(This article was initially published in The President's Report | 2024-2025. Click here to read the publication.)

Beyond the classroom, beyond the school, beyond graduation is exactly what Beyond Belen is all about. Founded in 2018 as a mentorship program for students, Beyond Belen quickly took off with remarkable success. Since its inception, hundreds of students have participated in the program that connects them to alumni who share a similar career path. The program allows the students to learn more about their potential professions before heading off to college. This one-of-a-kind initiative helps the students to make better decisions about their future as early as their junior year of high school, as well as make strong connections to alumni who may serve as lifelong mentors.

 

Over the years, more than 450 members of the Alumni Association have participated in Beyond Belen. Their careers stem from curators to construction, and everything in between. They are true Men For Others who selflessly help students navigate the uncertain waters of career decision-making. By giving up their time and talent, these alumni are making a significant difference in a young man’s life, and most importantly, cementing the brotherhood from one Belen graduate to another.

 

“It’s been a pleasure having Eduardo López-Seda ’24 intern at Bravo Architecture since 2023. He is a very talented and patient individual who brings a tremendous attitude and eagerness to learn every day. His passion for architecture has truly grown during his time with us, and it’s been exciting to see him contribute his creativity and skills to several of our projects. We’re confident he has a bright future ahead in the field,” said program mentor Pedro Bravo ’87.

 

The Process begins with a meeting between the Alumni Office and the junior and senior classes during the school day. Students are given all the necessary information regarding the program, and then are encouraged to sign up by listing their top career choices. This leads to the most challenging task of pairing students with alumni, and that is where the student ambassadors step in. Two student ambassadors from each class work side by side with the Alumni Office to match the students with an alumnus. During this phase, the ambassadors consider the personalities of the students as well as their strengths and weaknesses to ensure a successful match.

 

Participating juniors and seniors are given the contact information of their mentors, and they are encouraged to reach out, introduce themselves, and possibly send in a resume. The highlight of the program is the actual face-to-face meeting, which this year will take place on Thursday, December 11th, during school hours. In this event, students introduce themselves to their mentors, they ask questions about career choices, colleges, or even a possible internship. The hope is that the relationships forged will lead to a better opportunity, such as an internship, contacts with other companies, job shadows, or even future references.

 

“This is a great opportunity for alumni to give back to the school,” said Carlos Jiménez ‘15, Alumni Data & Support Administrator. “It may seem like a few hours of their time, but the investment and impact are far greater than they can imagine.”

 

The Beyond Belen program is an opportunity to bridge the gap between generations and help current students transition to the next phase of their lives. It gives young men the opportunity to create a lasting relationship with someone who has been in their shoes, shared the same struggles, and is now serving as a productive member of society. Most importantly, it is a true testament to the brotherhood forged by this great institution and a living fulfillment of the promise to serve as Men for Others.

 

“By participating in Beyond Belen, I earned an internship opportunity at Bravo Architecture which, since 2023 and up to the present, has done more than just teach me about architecture. By being a part of the development process, I have been able to learn the true definition of discipline and perseverance. In the person of Pedro Bravo, I found a mentor and friend who, without Beyond Belen, I wouldn’t have been able to connect with. Working with him throughout the years has been a privilege, and I hope to be able to keep progressing in my career alongside the firm,” said Eduardo López-Seda ‘24.

 

The Alumni Association is always looking for new members to add to this program, especially young professionals. If you are interested in receiving more information about the program, please contact the alumni office at 786-621-4667 or email alumni@belenjesuit.org.