Milton Hershey School Elementary Students Learn Lessons in Success from Race Car Driver

At age 9, Brock Zearfoss knew he wanted to become a professional race car driver. He won his first race but faced challenges as well. Twenty-six years later, Zearfoss is not only living his dream, but also takes time to share lessons in success with children so they can achieve their goals.

Zearfoss recently visited Milton Hershey School’s Memorial Hall to share with Elementary Division students the importance of respectful communication, teamwork, a strong education, organizational skills, and resiliency. His lessons in success closely align with the MHS Sacred Values of commitment to mission, integrity, positive spirit, and mutual respect. Students had the opportunity to ask Zearfoss questions, sit in his MHS-branded race car, and tour his rigs.

“I am living the dream right now,” Zearfoss, a Dauphin County native who grew up 15 minutes from MHS, said. “I worked hard, stayed out of trouble, focused on my education, and became a race car driver.”

Becoming a race car driver was Zearfoss’ goal, but he told the students the same lessons in success he used could be applied to any field. He admitted that life can be challenging but encouraged students never to give up.

“The older I got, the harder it became. It takes a lot of time, hard work, discipline, and respect,” he said.

Zearfoss does not win races alone. A team of people helps him manage his schedule and maintain his car. Clear, respectful communication is important when working with others, Zearfoss told the students.

Zearfoss also told the students that it is important for them to focus on careers they enjoy. His love for racing helps him stay focused, but he believes it would be even more difficult to succeed if he lacked passion.

“If you really love what you do and you want to be successful, you just keep at it,” he said.

Zearfoss’ recent visit to MHS is part of a partnership between his team and the school. Last year, he and other World of Outlaws drivers provided fun, hands-on educational experiences for students interested in the automotive field.