How New Students Are Raising the Bar Across Campus

Each year, new students at Milton Hershey School begin their journey with excitement, nerves and hope for what lies ahead. This year, first-year students didn’t just settle in—they raised the bar!

Whether in the classroom or in their student homes, these new students quickly embraced the challenge of growing into the best versions of themselves. With dedication to academics, leadership, and the Sacred Values, they have become shining examples of what it means to be a Spartan.

“Raising the bar means to go above and beyond in everything you do,” said third grader Jenna Nametalla.

Nametella has quickly embraced the spirit of being a Spartan. Nametalla’s positive energy and determination to try her best in all things has made her a role model to her peers.

For first grader Dakota Souden, her journey at MHS has been about self-growth.

“I have learned from my mistakes, and I have a big heart,” said Souden.

Her journey of learning how to ride a bike was not smooth sailing, but she never quit. Now she teaches her house sisters how to ride a bike and allows them to learn from her mistakes.

Sixth grader Kiera Force shared how much her teachers Mary Manlove and Brittany Durff have shaped her first year. Having the support from her teachers and houseparents helped Force challenge herself to stay positive and push her friends to do so as well.

“They are so supportive and help me understand it is okay not to be perfect as long as I am trying my best,” said Force.

For some, raising the bar is all about encouraging others to do the same. Eighth grader Joshua Kula says the key to success at MHS leading by example and having integrity.

“I had integrity issues at the beginning of the year, but I learned quickly that it was so much easier to be honest,” said Kula.

As someone who now follows the Sacred Values closely, Kula is a leader in and out of school, something that does not go unnoticed by anyone at MHS.

Freshman Scotlyn Jones found that MHS helped her grow in confidence. Jones now loves being challenged because she knows she has the ability to pursue anything she sets her mind to.

“My teachers set goals for me that are challenging, but ones they know I can reach,” said Jones. “If I am struggling, they are always there to support me.”

Sophomore Keneth Diaz Lopez has been an exceptional student throughout the year, but with continued encouragement from teachers and houseparents, he now encourages his fellow classmates to follow in his footsteps.

“I have improved so much at MHS because of how much encouragement I get,” said Diaz Lopez.

Alyssa Hostetter, MHS New Student Transition Counselor, understands the first few weeks at MHS is a crucial time of adjustment for new students. From New Spartan Academy and peer mentors to the Co-Pilot program and New Spartan Social Club, everyone at MHS plays a part in a student’s acclimation.

“At MHS, supporting first-year students is a community-wide effort that reflects our belief in every student’s potential and our dedication to helping them succeed,” said Hostetter.

As their first year comes to a close, it is clear that these students haven’t just adjusted to life at MHS, they’ve grown, led, and inspired others. They have raised the bar for the entire MHS community, and their journey is just beginning.