Billings Skyview Graduate Sets Sights on Harvard University This Fall

In the fall, Jennifer Walks from Billings will start her journey as a freshman at Harvard University. This achievement is remarkable, especially given Harvard’s low acceptance rate of just 3.5%.

Jennifer grew up in Billings and attended Skyview High School. She graduated on June 7, and as she prepares for this big move, she looks forward to experiencing new surroundings but admits she will miss her family and friends back home. “Everybody in Montana is so kind,” she noted, adding a bit of humor by comparing Harvard to Hogwarts.

She applied to several schools, including Harvard, UCLA, USC, and the University of San Diego. Harvard turned out to be the best financial choice for her, as its aid program will cover her tuition and room and board.

Despite her excitement, moving away is a bit daunting for Jennifer. “I’m a little nervous about leaving my family. But I’m eager to explore Boston and Cambridge,” she shared.

Worried about meeting the high expectations at Harvard, Jennifer mentioned feeling a bit of “impostor syndrome.” Nonetheless, her impressive record at Skyview speaks for itself. She achieved straight A’s, took 11 AP courses, and led clubs like the National Honor Society and Kiwanis Club. What truly set her application apart was her unique admissions essay about a bonsai tree she received at age 11. “It inspired me to care more about the world,” she explained.

As exciting as this new chapter is, Jennifer expressed concern about finding a similar support system at Harvard. Reflecting on her time at Skyview, she said, “Having people around to encourage me has been huge.” Her teacher, Kerry Gruizenga, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the deep relationships formed during her time there.

Jennifer’s acceptance letter came in March, just as Harvard was making headlines due to external political controversies. The Trump administration criticized the university, claiming it posed national security risks related to international student programs. Harvard has contested these claims, even filing lawsuits over funding issues.

Jennifer expressed feelings of concern regarding the political climate and its possible effects on education. “Growing up, education was always seen as a privilege in my family,” she said. She hopes to use her time at Harvard to explore a future in government, foreign policy, or law.

The landscape of international student education is changing rapidly, with recent polls indicating that concerns over safety and political policies may affect student mobility to prestigious institutions. In fact, a survey by the Institute of International Education found a 43% decline in first-time international student enrollment over the past year, as anxieties over visa regulations and discrimination continue to loom.

Jennifer’s upcoming adventure at Harvard symbolizes not just individual achievement but also the challenges today’s students face in a complex world. She hopes to find her path and make an impact, embracing both the excitement and uncertainty that come with this new beginning.



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