What if a simple hotel stay could help launch the career of the next great chef, hotelier, or entrepreneur?

​​In most of the hospitality industry, high school students are hired into low-skill, repetitive jobs—rarely offered real mentorship, career development, or support beyond an hourly wage. Too often, their early experiences leave them feeling undervalued and disconnected, pushing promising young talent to leave the industry for good in search of greener pastures.

At Saint John’s Resort in Plymouth, we believe a better future starts with a better opportunity. Thanks to guests like you, we partner with Detroit Cristo Rey and Loyola High Schools, two private schools committed to opening doors for students from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds, combining academic excellence with real-world experience.

“Sometimes life—and society—tries to put you in a box. But when you get the chance to step outside of it, you have to take it. The work-study program at Saint John’s gave me that chance. From day one, Chef Tricia created a welcoming, family-like environment that made me feel valued. Even after graduating, she and the team at Five Steakhouse continue to look out for me. They’ve taught me to keep going and never settle for less than what I’m capable of.” – Michael Williams, former Loyola High School Work Study Student

Through our high school work study program, students gain far more than an after-school job. They step into a professional environment where they build real skills in culinary arts, hospitality, and guest services, while receiving mentorship, leadership development, and tuition support that helps ease the financial burden of private education.

“These young people aren’t just learning how to work—they’re learning they belong anywhere their ambition takes them. Watching them grow has been one of the greatest privileges of my career.” -Eric Djordjevic, General Manager, Saint John’s Resort.

Now entering its fourth year, our program at Saint John’s has welcomed 20 hardworking students who aren’t just learning tasks — they are learning confidence, professionalism, and the belief that they belong in places of excellence. Together, the quality education they receive at school and the professional development they experience with us form a rare gift: the chance to dream bigger, reach farther, and imagine futures filled with possibility.