I Found Family Through the Mentorship Program at Milton Hershey School
By Sophia Bradley, MHS Senior
For many students at Milton Hershey School, the transition from Middle Division to Senior Division is one of excitement but can often bring a wave of anxiety and uncertainty. One of the Mentoring Our Leaders Development Program (M.O.L.D) goals is to offer support for this transition. As a current mentee, this program has made all the difference in my time at MHS.
My transition into my freshman year wouldn’t have been as smooth if it weren’t for my mentor, Kathleen McGraw, who works at Hershey Entertainment & Resorts. Since we were first paired, she has been one of my greatest supporters. Over time, she has become much more than just a mentor. She is my family. Whether I am having a tough day or I want to share my successes with someone, she is always there for me. Her actively reaching out to check up on me has shown me what it means to truly have someone in your corner.
Monthly, M.O.L.D. hosts events like potlucks and festive activities for all mentor groups to enjoy. I love going to the M.O.L.D. program events with my mentor because you can tell how much effort the staff has put into planning the event and making it a welcoming environment. One of the highlights for me is getting together with Ms. McGraw and the rest of my mentor group. We try to meet up three times a month for dinner or another activity. Ms. McGraw’s dedication to our relationship is something I will forever be grateful for.
To any student or staff member feeling unsure about joining the M.O.L.D. program, I encourage you to give it a chance. The relationships built through this program have the power to change lives and I am an example of that.