HE&R Announces Hersheypark Leadership Development Internship

^{Hershey Entertainment & Resorts Company Launches} 

^{Hersheypark Leadership Development Internship Program} 

Innovative Program Offers Leadership Academy, Housing, and Summer Employment 

Hershey, PA – Jan. 24, 2020 – Hershey Entertainment & Resorts Company (HE&R) has launched a new program for college students seeking an enhanced summer employment experience while learning critical skills from industry experts and thought leaders with a specially-designed leadership curriculum. Program participants, college students graduating after May of 2020, will work at Hersheypark for 13 weeks, receive invaluable skills for future employment, and have the opportunity to live with other interns in nearby housing. 

“With the opening of Hershey’s Chocolatetown, increasing our workforce with qualified team members is vital to our success,” said Vikki Hultquist, general manager, Attractions & Entertainment, HE&R. “The Hersheypark Leadership Development Internship will provide a unique experience for students who want to learn about the industry while having the opportunity to earn money for college and engage with expert faculty and leaders in business, including executives with HE&R.”

The HE&R team is working in partnership with Shippensburg University to develop a robust curriculum that complements the students’ summer work experience. Participants will work an average of 40 hours per week at Hersheypark, with the opportunity to secure additional shifts and attend a weekly three-hour class with relevant exercises, experiential learning, and guest lecturers. Students will have the ability to earn up to three college credits, pending individual college/university requirements. 

“Shippensburg University was thrilled at the chance to work with a premier hospitality and entertainment organization to develop this innovative program,” said Sue Mukherjee, chief strategy officer, Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania. “Students today are faced with increased challenges and information gaps as they embark on their careers. By offering this combined learning and experiential internship program, these interns will attain invaluable 21st-century employability skills applicable to their futures wherever their careers lead them. Plus, they have the chance to meet and live with students from dozens of other colleges and universities.”

Upon completion of the internship, all participants will receive a certificate for leadership development training issued by Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania. This will provide information about the knowledge and skills acquired through the program, which can be leveraged with future employers. 

Program participants will have access to rent nicely appointed apartments through CollegeTown Communities located at the Penn State Harrisburg campus. For more information, visit the website.  

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