In a remarkable tale of perseverance and determination, an 18-year-old girl who was born in prison has achieved the unthinkable – gaining admission to the prestigious Harvard University.
Sky Castner’s life began in the unlikeliest of places – the Galveston County Jail. Her mother, who was incarcerated at the time, has had little involvement in Sky’s life since her birth. Sky’s father, a single parent, took on the responsibility of raising her, despite the challenges they faced, including frequent relocations.
Despite these obstacles, Sky’s resolve to attend Harvard never wavered. She worked tirelessly to achieve her goal, and her hard work paid off when she graduated third in her class from Conroe High School. This impressive achievement paved the way for her admission to Harvard, where she plans to study law.
Sky’s application letter to Harvard began with a bold statement: “I was born in prison.” This courageous declaration set the tone for her inspiring story, which has captured the hearts of many.
As a child, Sky was an avid reader and excelled academically. Her elementary school teachers recognized her potential and encouraged her to reach for the stars. With the help of her mentor, Mona Hamby, Sky’s confidence grew, and she began to explore her interests and passions.
Mona, who was introduced to Sky through the CISD’s Project Mentor, played a pivotal role in Sky’s life. The two formed a strong bond, and Mona provided guidance and support, helping Sky navigate the challenges she faced.
Sky’s journey to Harvard was not without its challenges, but she persevered, driven by her determination to succeed. Her story is a testament to the power of resilience and the importance of never giving up on one’s dreams.
As Sky prepares to embark on this new chapter in her life, her inspiring story serves as a reminder that anything is possible with hard work, determination, and a willingness to defy the odds.
