National Merit Commended Student | AP Capstone Diploma | AP Scholar with Distinction | Seal of Biliteracy – Latin & Chinese | Monarch of the Month
Johns Hopkins University: Medicine
Whether he was debating global policy at a Model United Nations (MUN) conference, programming a robot, or serving the public through the American Red Cross, Tengjie “Jay” Qiu made his mark on Mater Dei with intellect, humility, and quiet leadership. A National Merit Commended Student and recipient of the prestigious AP Capstone Diploma, Jay graduates as one of the most academically decorated members of the Class of 2025.
Jay chose Mater Dei for the opportunities it offered—both in and out of the classroom. “I came here looking to grow,” he says. “And I found exactly that.”
With a cumulative GPA of 4.69, Jay excelled in a rigorous academic track, earning the AP Scholar with Distinction Award and the Seal of Biliteracy in both Latin and Chinese. He was also named a Monarch of the Month in September, a recognition of his consistent leadership and integrity.
A leader in MUN and Robotics, Jay also served in ASB and participated in numerous campus clubs. One of his proudest accomplishments was helping launch the inaugural Monarch Invitational MUN Middle School Conference. “It was such a meaningful day,” he recalls. “Bringing younger students into a space where they could grow their voices—it was a full circle moment for me.”
Jay’s sense of purpose extended beyond campus. He completed 81 Christian service hours and over 600 hours volunteering with the American Red Cross, driven by a passion for public health and service. “I want to become a physician,” he says. “This work helped me connect with real community needs and shaped my sense of responsibility.”
He credits Social Studies teacher and MUN advisor Mrs. Kitsinis with helping him navigate challenges and step confidently into leadership. “She guided me through so many obstacles,” Jay says. “Her mentorship meant everything.”
When asked what he’ll miss most, Jay points to the friendships formed along the way. And his one word to describe Mater Dei? Eventful.
He now looks ahead to college and eventually medical school—prepared, as always, to serve others with excellence, empathy, and purpose.