Arrupe Student Reflections
Each academic year, the Ignatian Center's Arrupe Engagement places SCU students with community partners, facilitating community-engaged learning opportunities that underscore SCU's commitment to justice and solidarity with marginalized communities. To learn how those 8 weeks of community engagement impacted the students, read their Arrupe Engagement Reflections.
"This has had a profound impact on me through deepening my understanding of my life principles, I was able to have really important conversations about what I wanted my future to look like after college while gardening. These people offered me amazing advice and told me their life stories, which I took to heart. While planting the tomatoes and harvesting and shipping off the lettuce, I felt like I was truly starting to make a difference. The tomatoes were a stepping stone for what is to grow in the garden and the lettuce is feeding hundreds if not thousands, keeping people fed and well another day."“</p
Arrupe Engagement Student, Loaves and Fishes
"My experience at Buchser Middle School has strengthened my commitment to working with and advocating for underserved populations. Being part of a community where many students and families face systemic barriers—whether due to language, income, or access to resources—made it clear how much need exists just within our local neighborhoods. I saw how even small contributions—offering support, being present, or helping with communication—can make a meaningful difference. It reminded me that my education and skills aren't just for personal advancement but can and should be used to uplift others. This experience reaffirmed my desire to pursue a career rooted in service, equity, and community-based impact.”
Arrupe Engagement Student, Buchser Middle School
"I feel that this placement has allowed me to find compassion and empathy within myself. I feel that I have gained far more than I have given, and I hope that I can continue working at Estrella (now known as Go Kids) even after my placement is over."
Shivani Gohil, Go Kids (Formerly Estrella Family Services)
"Working with the Domestic Violence program at Sacred Heart has really encouraged me to pursue my passion for social work and helping underserved and underprivileged communities. I have a better understanding of the challenges the victims face in regard to filing restraining orders and going to court for child support and child custody."
Yilin Bi, Sacred Heart Community Service
"I have been impacted by the kids I work with in so many ways. They are kind, caring, and sometimes even crazy. They interact with one another in some of the weirdest ways, but on days I don't have my Arrupe assignment I find myself missing them. I'm thankful that they opened up their community to let me in."
Kate Wilson, San Jose Day Nursery
"Over the last couple weeks I got to work with so many students who have truly taught me what it means to be in the moment, take positive risks in order to grow, and never take any time for granted. My placement has made a positive impact on me and I will forever be grateful for the time I got to share with them.”
María Tobar, English Learning Club at Mission Branch Library