For Andreas Anest, choosing Mater Dei meant choosing a school where teachers genuinely care about student success and where opportunities abound to grow in leadership, service, and faith.
A graduate of Page Academy in Costa Mesa, Andreas has embraced every opportunity to get involved, serving as President of the Pre-Law Club, Varsity Captain for the Mock Trial Team, Director General for Model United Nations (MUN), a Go-Green Commissioner with ASB, and a competitor on the Boys Tennis team.
With a 4.12 GPA, Andreas has been recognized as a California Scholarship Federation member and represented Mater Dei this summer at the American Legion Boys State. He also helped lead Mater Dei’s Mock Trial team to a first-place finish at the JSerra Tournament, a proud achievement that reflects his passion for teamwork and excellence.
When he learned he had been named Monarch of the Month, Andreas admits he was “a little nervous but also appreciative” to be recognized. The honor affirmed the hard work and dedication he has poured into academics, leadership, and service.
Among his favorite Mater Dei memories was volunteering at the 2025 Special Games, a signature Mater Dei tradition that celebrates joy, inclusion, and community. Andreas has also given his time to the Orangewood Children’s Foundation in Santa Ana, where he finds meaning in making a positive difference in people’s lives.
He credits teachers Mr. Van Dyk, Mrs. Kitsinis, and Ms. Smith as mentors who encouraged him to push himself academically and to take part in activities like Mock Trial and MUN. Their support and guidance, he says, have shaped him into a stronger student and leader.
Outside the classroom, Andreas enjoys playing guitar, listening to music, reading, fishing, and playing tennis. Looking ahead, he plans to study philosophy with a pre-law focus, then attend law school to pursue a career as a trial attorney. He describes his Mater Dei experience in one word: “transformative.”