At the age of 18, Sky Castner has achieved something truly remarkable – she has gained admission to the prestigious Harvard University, despite being born in a prison. Sky’s journey has been one of determination and resilience, defying all odds and expectations.
Born in the Galveston County Jail, Sky’s mother was incarcerated at the time of her birth. Raised by her father as a single parent, Sky’s mother played no significant role in her life. Despite experiencing frequent relocations during her youth, Sky never wavered in her dream of attending Harvard.
Last week, Sky received third place in her class at Conroe High School, securing her place at Harvard to study law. Her application letter to Harvard began with the powerful sentence: “I was born in prison.” This statement encapsulates the challenges she faced and the strength she possesses to overcome them.
Even as a young child, Sky displayed academic excellence and a love for reading. Recognizing her potential, the faculty at Reaves Elementary believed she would benefit from additional mentoring. Mona Hamby, with CISD’s Project Mentor, stepped in to provide guidance and support.
Through their mentorship, Sky learned valuable life lessons, from choosing her first pair of glasses to having her first haircut at a salon. Mona’s influence and the exposure to a different environment expanded Sky’s horizons, shaping her into the remarkable young woman she is today.
In 2022, Sky had the opportunity to visit the Harvard campus with Mona and her husband, a moment that further solidified her desire to attend the university. Seeking guidance on her application, Sky reached out to Professor James Wallace from Boston University, who helped her craft her story.
Sky’s journey is undeniably inspiring, showcasing the power of determination and resilience. Despite her challenging beginnings, she has overcome the odds and secured a place at Harvard, fulfilling her dreams.
Let us celebrate Sky’s incredible accomplishments and cheer her on as she enters this new chapter of her life. Share this remarkable story on Facebook to inspire others and support our efforts to inform and entertain our audience.
