Milton Hershey School Students Plan Their Summer Work Experiences

To address the growing desire of Milton Hershey School Senior Division students to hold part-time jobs and to bring the career-focused education curriculum to life, MHS students had an opportunity to attend the Student Part-Time Work Job Fair to meet hiring managers, ask questions about various jobs, and interview on-the-spot for available positions.

In planning ahead for the summer, more than 200 Senior Division students have expressed interest in staying in Hershey to gain authentic work experience. To set the students up for success, Hershey Entertainment & Resorts (HE&R) has partnered with MHS to provide seasonal and summertime opportunities for students at Hersheypark. Additionally, various departments at MHS that seek seasonal work, including Year-Round Experience (YRE), Agricultural and Environmental Education (AEE), and Information Technology (IT) were onsite to share their available opportunities.

“From our perspective, we (HE&R) as an organization provide value to MHS students, whether that be financially or by engaging and empowering students,” explained Angela Meyers, director of talent acquisition at HE&R. “This partnership is valuable because we will be able to give them a part-time experience while they are here, so they are better equipped when they enter the world outside of MHS.”

During the Student Part-Time Work Job Fair, students had the chance to interview for roles at Hersheypark such as ride operators, food team members, lifeguards, parking lot attendants, and maintenance crew. Positions within MHS included AEE and Project Market student workers, Summer Spartan Warriors, YRE camp counselors, and IT Help Desk support staff.

“Hiring events like this are teaching our students the importance of professionalism, making a strong first impression, and confidence in their knowledge and skill set,” said Tara Valoczki, senior director of curriculum, instruction, and assessment. “For many of the students, this will be their first job ever and we are grateful that HE&R and the MHS departments are willing to give our students the opportunity to start their working life with a strong foundation.”

Of the 165 students that participated in this fair, all students were extended an offer for summer employment. For MHS freshman Justin Le Tran, the fair was a chance to secure his first working experience as an AEE employee in the Spartan Ice Cream Center this summer. Meanwhile, junior Tayla Williams-Howard and senior Faith Wratto are hoping their summer jobs at Hersheypark help them gain skills that will help them in their future careers. Tayla will be working as a ride operator and Faith will be part of the food services department.

“Building a resume feels amazing. These summer job opportunities are about taking every opportunity and not taking anything for granted,” described Faith. “The hard work pays off–it’s all about knowing goals, setting them, and reaching them.”