MHS Sophomores Get Hands-On Experience Through Job Shadow Day

As part of Milton Hershey School’s Career and Technical Education program, approximately 50 MHS sophomores participated in an exploratory job shadow day with employees from Hershey Entertainment & Resorts. Students from each of the 12 career pathways with the school’s CTE program were selected to attend the job shadow day and learn from industry professionals.

“Today gave our students the chance to learn outside of the classroom,” said Dave Curry, MHS Director of Career and Technical Education. “Every HE&R employee participating in today’s job shadow event was there to help guide our students as they pursue their future career options. It’s an opportunity not many sophomores in high school receive and [it] is invaluable.”

The morning started with a light breakfast as HE&R employees shared their career paths with the students, which ranged from working at resorts in the Caribbean and Walt Disney World to the PA State Police, and Nickelodeon in New York City.

“This year we have undergone collaboration with HE&R that has been unprecedented,” said Curry. “The collaboration is genuinely helpful for our students’ success.”

Many of the HE&R employees encouraged students to pursue their passions because finding a passion means you’ll find success.

“Think about that one thing you truly enjoy,” said Donna Holloway, Executive Assistant Manager of Rooms at The Hershey Lodge. “If you find something that creates a fire within and it translates into a career, it’ll be a rewarding job experience.”

Through Milton Hershey School’s CTE program, students begin exploring career options and developing career technical skills throughout elementary and middle school before choosing one of the 11 career pathways in high school. Beyond job shadow days, students experience hands-on learning through internships, pre-apprenticeships, and co-op experiences.

Learn more about the MHS Career and Technical Education program.