Milton Hershey School Lifer Shares How Support Shaped Her Journey
Nyasia Quick will graduate in June as a Milton Hershey School lifer, a distinction earned by students who complete at least 12 years of enrollment before graduating. More than 600 alumni have begun their MHS journeys in pre-K, kindergarten, or first grade.
As we prepare to celebrate them at the school’s 92nd Commencement Ceremony on Sunday, June 14, the lifers in the Class of 2026 shared what their time at MHS has meant to them.
What is your earliest memory at MHS?
I remember being on the playground with my housesisters as we played with our dolls, which we had gotten for Christmas. We weren’t supposed to have them outside, but we did anyway. We got in trouble, but it was a bonding moment we can all laugh about and share.
When you first enrolled, what did you want to be when you grew up, and now that you are graduating, how has that changed?
I wanted to be a vet! I loved animals and had a cat growing up. It became my best friend, and in those moments, I knew I wanted to take care of everyone’s animals. A lot has happened since then, as I have now changed paths, wanting to be in marketing, but I will remember that younger version of myself.
What is a moment at MHS that shaped your story?
I think it was getting on the soccer team for the first time. I’m not a very social person normally, but being with those girls, I found a sense of community for the first time. It was hard at first but finding people who were into the same things as me and would share the wins and losses meant the world.
How were your talents and interests honed?
To be honest, my middle school houseparents started it all because they were always there for me. I was given a lot of support every step of the way by them and by teachers, coaches, and mentors. There were many opportunities where I could learn real skills in real classrooms that changed everything for the better. It was heavy support for all the things I wanted to do.
What are the life lessons that you learned from elementary, middle, and high school?
I learned patience–that not everything’s going to happen right away, but it will happen when it’s the right time. You just have to stick through it. I learned how to communicate and that not everything is about me all the time. I also learned to be kind and to follow the Golden Rule.
What would you say to your younger self if they could see you now?
You’re going to be okay. This place will challenge you, push you, and inspire you to do great things if you let it. You may not see it now, but just stick through it.
What would you say to a student currently enrolling in pre-K, kindergarten, or first grade?
I would tell them to make as many friends as possible and connect with as many people as they can. It may sound cliché but being friendly and a good person gets you far. Also, focus on your schoolwork and make sure that all parts of your life are taken care of.