New Job, New Me!
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On September 25th, 2025, I started my new job at Hershey’s Chocolate World. I was nervous but mostly excited. Sure, I’d miss the familiarity at Target, but I had a rough year last year when I was hit with a serious, unexpected illness, and I felt it was time for a fresh start.
On Labor Day, I went to my job interview and was hired on the spot! After I completed the hiring process, I received an email about my orientation and a schedule for my first two weeks. I was grinning like the Cheshire cat all day. And as time went on, I’ve been able to adapt rather quickly. Everyone is so nice!
Did you know that Chocolate World has sensory-friendly nights and is now a Certified Autism Center (CAC)? That’s what originally drew me to seek employment at Chocolate World. I’m so happy to work for a place that is supportive of me and others on the spectrum and with other disabilities. Sure, there are times I want to just scream when the weekends are crowded, and people are talking over each other. But screaming isn’t going to make things go away or make anything better. I’m fortunate to work around so many people who are patient with me while I learn something new, or are understanding when I might need a moment to breathe.
And I’m not just working in one section; I’m being trained to be able to support all sections of food service at Chocolate World. There are stations for milkshakes, pizza, a bakery, coffee, a baked potato bar, dishwashing, and so on. Everyone in food services has to learn all sections so we can all help each other when needed. Now that’s what I call a team! Each day I come home happy and have so much to tell my family about.
Sure, I’ve made mistakes like spilling a milkshake on my own sneakers and talking too loudly while the blenders were on while helping a customer, but who hasn’t done that? My bosses were nice about it and suggested I wait until the blender is done blending to ask someone about their order. Or to pour the milkshake into the cup over the counter so that if it does spill, it won’t get on my shoes or apron, and we can easily wipe it up with a napkin. Everyone is so friendly, funny, helpful, and supportive. I’ve never felt so happy.
I really did like my job at Target, but there, I was often by myself in the kitchen doing all the cleaning myself on weekends. Now I’m not alone, I’m learning new skills, making new friends, and earning a little more money.
This past weekend, I took my mom to Chocolate World and showed her all the new stuff. We had some hot chocolate and had so much fun!
Here are a few Chocolate World Facts that I have found interesting:
– Chocolate World opened its doors in June 1973.
– Mr. Hershey chose Hershey, PA, for his factory because of access to fresh milk; the cows.
– Mr. Hershey was supposed to be a passenger on the R.M.S. Titanic, but canceled due to a last-minute business matter that needed his full attention (smart move, Milton!)
– Mr. Hershey never completed the 4th grade due to attending many schools and moving around so much, and eventually, he quit school at around 13-14.
That’s all I’ve got for now….Until next time,
Sarah