Khristan grew up in a small town in East Texas, where she spent time in foster care and experienced a challenging childhood. After graduating from high school, she moved to San Antonio on her own to pursue her undergraduate degree.

During that time, she faced many challenges, from managing her finances to navigating early adulthood on her own. Eventually, she moved back to her hometown and stayed with family for a while. When that arrangement came to an end, she found herself couch surfing and experiencing housing instability.

At the same time, she was trying to continue her education through UTSA’s online program, but keeping up with school started to feel impossible. To add to the challenges she was facing, Khristan also experienced the loss of her father who she was very close with. During this time, she wasn’t sure if she’d be able to keep going, much less graduate.

That’s when Khristan got connected with THRU Project’s Next Step Housing Program. With stable housing and no longer having to juggle rent and school, she was finally able to focus on her education. She was also matched with a caring mentor, Debbie, who became a tremendous source of support and encouragement.
It was at this school where I was able to graduate with my high school diploma as well as my associate’s degree to have an early head start at college.

We’re proud to share that Khristan graduated from UTSA in December 2022 with her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology while participating in THRU Project’s housing program. Her journey came full circle when she joined THRU Project as an employee in 2024. Today, she serves as one of the organization’s Housing Resource Coordinator, where she uses both her professional experience and lived experience to support young adults with a history of foster care.

Her journey is a testament to the power of stability, supportive relationships, and the belief that every young person deserves the opportunity to succeed.