How does LWEP work?

To enhance students’ potential for success as adults, Loyola requires juniors and seniors to participate in LWEP, the first program of its kind in the metro Detroit area. As a component of Loyola’s academic program, LWEP allows each student to use personal and professional skills in a real-world workplace environment. At the same time, LWEP helps students assume part of the financial responsibility for their own education.

Details of the program include:

  • Juniors and seniors work one day each week, plus one Friday per month in entry-level clerical positions at law and accounting firms, manufacturers, and other service providers. These employers are referred to as LWEP sponsors.
  • Students sign over their earnings to LWEP in order to help reduce the gap between what they pay in tuition and the actual cost of their education.
  •  A team of four students share a full-time position. Each student works one day a week, Monday – Thursday, plus one Friday a month.
  • Part-time positions are also available one, two, or three days a week.
  • LWEP charges a flat fee and handles payroll, W-4, worker’s compensation, FICA, and other payroll issues.
  • Sponsors who outsource a full-time position to LWEP pay a fee of $28,000. Sponsors who outsource a part-time position pay a prorated fee.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are LWEP’s start and end dates?

The program typically begins the Tuesday after Labor Day and runs until the last day of school, which normally occurs in May.

Do students receive any job training to prepare for their placements?

Yes. The Loyola Work Experience Program provides a summer training session, that includes an overview of the program policies & procedures, resume prep, mock interviews, communication, public speaking, & workplace etiquette.

How are students assigned?

Students are assigned to their worksite based on the needs of each partner & position. However, we take into consideration the student’s interests and skill sets as well, to assist in finding the best fit for both the partners and students.

How do students make up missed classroom instruction?

No. Students are assigned an LWEP work day on their class schedule, which is strictly designated for work during the school day. LWEP is an official required class and students receive a grade based on their work attendance, engagement, & performance.

Who supervises the students?

LWEP staff, in consultation with the Sponsor, supervises students. The LWEP Director works directly with each student and sponsor in all supervisory matters.

How do the students get to work?

The LWEP Drivers provide transportation for students to and from their worksites.

Can students work on school holidays or during the summer?

Students are allowed to work over breaks and holidays. LWEP continues to provide transportation. The Sponsor pay LWEP a per diem rate. After deducting the transportation costs, LWEP turns this compensation over to the student. Additionally, juniors can work the summer before their senior year.

How do the students dress for work?

Students typically report to work in their school uniform which consists of dress/khaki pants, dress/polo shirt, dress/casual shoes, belt and tie (optional). Students’ attire can also be adjusted as needed depending on the specific circumstances of the Loyola Work Experience Partner’s work site.

How can our company get more information?

For more information, please contact:

"I've always wanted to work in finance or the accounting field, so having this job for LWEP means a lot to me. It gives me an opportunity to see what goes on in this field, and I love it. This job has pushed me and has gotten me more interested in finance and accounting. Before the job I wasn't sure what I wanted to do when I get to college. Now, I'm sure it's either going to be finance, accounting, marketing or something in business. This job has given me the drive to work even harder than I already do. I’ve also learned to speak up when I need help." Paul Dabney '19 (Dykema)