Gina Heslop
Sky Castner’s remarkable journey from being born in a prison to gaining admission to Harvard University is a testament to her determination and resilience. Despite facing significant challenges throughout her life, Sky has defied the odds and achieved a remarkable academic feat.
Sky’s life began in the Galveston County Jail, where she was born 18 years ago. Raised by her father as a single parent after he picked her up from the jail, Sky’s mother, who was incarcerated at the time of her birth, played no substantial role in her upbringing.
Throughout her youth, Sky and her father experienced frequent relocations, but her unwavering dream of attending Harvard remained intact. Last week, she graduated from Conroe High School, securing third place in her class. This achievement opened the door for her to pursue her aspirations at Harvard University, one of the world’s most prestigious institutions, with a focus on studying law.
Sky’s journey is marked by her resilience and determination, as evidenced by the opening line of her Harvard application letter: “I was born in prison.” Despite her challenging circumstances, Sky excelled academically from a young age, standing out as a voracious reader in elementary school.
Mona Hamby, who joined CISD’s Project Mentor program, recognized Sky’s potential and became her mentor. Despite not having known each other’s mothers, they formed a close bond. Mona provided invaluable guidance to Sky, from helping her choose her first pair of glasses to introducing her to the experience of having her hair cut at a salon.
Sky’s interest in Harvard deepened after visiting the campus with Mona and her husband in 2022. She sought advice from Boston University’s Professor James Wallace, who assisted her in crafting her application and telling her compelling story.
Sky’s journey is a powerful reminder that determination, mentorship, and unwavering commitment can lead to remarkable achievements. Her story serves as an inspiration to all who face adversity and aspire to overcome it. Sky Castner’s resilience and accomplishments are a testament to her extraordinary spirit, and her admission to Harvard is a well-deserved triumph.
