Milton Hershey School Lifer is Committed to Her Journey

Milton Hershey School has had more than 600 alumni enroll in pre-K, kindergarten, or first grade—or sometimes even earlier. At MHS, these students earn the distinction of being a “lifer” once they complete their 12 years of schooling and graduate. As we prepare to celebrate them at the school’s 89th Commencement Ceremony on Sunday, June 11, we asked several of this year’s 18 lifers what their time at MHS has meant to them.

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

To me, being a lifer is a commitment you make with yourself to see MHS as home and not simply an experience to overcome. My time at MHS was not always easy, but worth it, thanks to the lessons I’ve learned and skills I’ve gained.

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

MHS has helped prepare me for life after graduation by setting me up for success in the outside world and giving me opportunities to grow and become my greatest self. Because I learned valuable lessons and built relationships with teachers, houseparents, and mentors, I’m prepared for what’s next.

What are you most looking forward to after graduation?

After graduation, I am looking forward to creating new connections and starting my life in the real world. It will be an adjustment to no longer be an MHS student, but the school will always be my home.

When you think about life after graduation from Milton Hershey School, as a lifer, what comes to mind? 

I think of leaving a place I called home for many years and how my life has been forever changed because of the commitment I made to myself and the way MHS has never given up on me. I am proud of the person I’ve become as a part of my journey at the school and am excited to continue building my story.

A Lifetime of Memories at MHS