Milton Hershey School Lifer Feels Prepared for Life After MHS

Fulfilling the Hersheys’ vision, more than 600 alumni have enrolled at Milton Hershey School in kindergarten or first grade—some even earlier. When a student finishes their schooling and graduates from MHS approximately 12 years later, these alumni become known as a “lifer.” As we prepare for Virtual Commencement Weekend 2021, several MHS lifers were interviewed to share their experience.

What does it mean to be an MHS lifer to you?

Being an MHS lifer means you have lived and learned at Milton Hershey School almost your entire life. They are someone who will always be there when you need them. A lifer is someone you can depend on and a person who has perseverance and determination.

What is your fondest memory of Milton Hershey School?

My fondest memory at MHS was at my Elementary Division student home Logan with my houseparents, the Mattinglys. Upon returning to campus after Thanksgiving break, I was feeling homesick and I was doing my best to hide it. Mrs. Mattingly said goodnight and as I was heading back to bed, I tried to hide my tears. I said goodnight, but she could sense the homesickness in my voice. Mrs. Mattingly asked me what was wrong and stayed up with me to talk and comfort me.

How has your time at MHS helped prepare you for life after graduation?

Milton Hershey School has given me a lot of support and great advice. This school has prepared me for life after graduation and pushed me out of my comfort zone. MHS has taught me that you’re not going to like everything that you are going to do, but you can persevere through it. I have been given so many great opportunities that I likely would not have been given if I did not attend MHS.

My plan after graduation is to attend Millersville University to earn a bachelor’s degree in graphic design. A college degree is now an obtainable goal I can afford and achieve thanks to MHS.

Who would you like to recognize for helping you through your time at the school?

I would like to recognize my family, especially my mom. I know everyone says this, but my mom gave me the opportunity to attend MHS—as that was for her—because she knew that I would have a better future. My mom has always been there for me and has supported me through all of my ups and downs.

I also would like to recognize all my houseparents throughout the years that have made an impact on me and those memories will stick with me after I graduate.