Welcome to a new houseparent.com blog series, with submissions written from the students’ perspectives. Houseparents work with youth from all different backgrounds, and their stories are as unique and varied as those of the houseparents. At the end of the day, houseparents are working to make a positive difference in the lives of kids. Here are their stories.

By: Alex O., Milton Hershey School student

On a hot August day, the car cruised into the driveway of Student Home Venice. A couple was standing outside the two-story house that I was going to live in with 11 other boys. They introduced themselves and after I said my goodbyes I was led to my room.

Since I arrived earlier than my roommate, who was also a new kid, I got the opportunity to choose my side of the room. I was given brand-new bedsheets and was told to make myself at home. I unpacked my stuff and went downstairs to the rec room. I was fastidious with my interactions, so I could learn about my peers whom I would live with the rest of the year.

I was given the quick sum of how the house runs and the culture it holds. Eventually, the houseparents pulled me into the office to give me the run-down of the expectations and responsibilities that I would have. After the meeting, it was safe for me to imply that this house had structure and discipline, but in a way where it created a safe and motivating environment.

The houseparents came off as understanding and sincere people, which I valued immensely. Throughout the beginning of the year, my days came off as volatile as I was settling into my new environment. My houseparents and I shared our differences but worked through them to befriend each other. For houseparents, I would say there are important skills to wield to create the perfect environment for everyone.

Understanding the student's point of view

I acknowledge the responsibilities houseparents have, but understanding the student’s point of view has to be one of the most important skills to have because it can help the relationship between the student and the houseparent. Taking time to understand the background, goals, and struggles of a student can make an immense difference in the house. The support and empathy a student receives from a houseparent can help the well-being of a student.

Consistency

Having a consistent routine or schedule can help a student because it provides reassurance of the next meal or activity. Keeping consistent expectations can help create a functional environment for students because they know what to expect.

Being Open

Students want to have the opportunity to come up to a houseparent with concerns or problems, thus, creating a sense of belonging for the student within said student home. Sometimes a simple chat will help the student strengthen their connection with the houseparent.

Sincerity

Generally, students want sincere houseparents who can help guide them on their path or journey. Sincerity helps create a safe environment for the student to comfortably express themselves and their feelings. Building genuine relationships with the students proliferates the overall environment of the student home to an ineffable bond.

Conclusion

For houseparents to be understanding, consistent, sincere, and open are just a few of the many examples that help create a positive and successful environment. In general, the most important skill to master is patience. Students can make mistakes and being patient allows for the student to understand and analyze the problem. There will be daily hassles, but with patience, houseparents can focus on the bigger picture--helping students achieve greatness.

About the author

Alex O. attends Milton Hershey School. Born in Brooklyn, NY, he enrolled in the school when he was 11 years old. He enjoys football and basketball. He was the president of the Investment Club and in the future he hopes to become an investment banker.