By Joan Frances –
Jier Qiu.
Photo by Nessosi Studios.
Calvary Episcopal Preparatory welcomes diversity and students from all over the world. The structure of the class size allows for individual attention and caters to the international student. Senior Jier Qiu has become an important asset to the school and continues to exceed expectations.
Qiu is originally from Beijing, China. He came to the United States with the intention of improving his English, graduating from a U.S. high school and then ultimately attending a U.S. college. For the past three years, he has taken Advanced Placement classes and is president of the Student Council. He is a member of the National Honor Society (NHS) and is the school’s ambassador. He was a member of the Houston Area Model United Nation Debate Team for two years and a member of the Texas Association of Student Councils where he served as treasurer. Qiu also competed in Advanced Math at the Texas Association of Private and Parochial Schools, and this past summer he completed an internship at Rice University.
Qiu’s favorite teacher is Lisa Mann, his English teacher. “Her way of teaching always has a magic power to help me understand English. She has the best explanation for everything when I am confused. Through her class, she helps me figure out how to deal with the relationship between both languages. Three years ago when I came to the United States to learn, my English was very limited. Thanks to Ms. Mann and her patience with me, I have made a significant improvement in understanding and speaking the language of this country.”
In addition to his commitment to academic excellence, Qiu is an athlete. He is a member of the school’s golf, bowling club and the badminton team. He is also the assistant coach for the soccer team.
Qui also has a passion for music and plays the clarinet proficiently. He received the “Outstanding Musician” award at the end of the last school year and is the band section leader for the school. “I like music. It is a part of my life, as well as one of the important reasons that I joined the band. Music can relax me from the dull, daily routine and renew the passion of life. Plato said, ‘Music gives a soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination and life to everything.’”
One value Qiu lives by is knowledge. “I believe that the wealth of the mind is the only wealth. In my whole life, I vow to learn all I can about people, life and the world. Once a person has a powerful and brave soul, he or she is unstoppable.”
Jier Qiu received the Outstanding Musician award in band presented by Mrs. Donna Estrada his band teacher.
Photo by October Dawn Photography.
During his past three years at Calvary Episcopal Preparatory, Qiu has developed valuable friendships. These students have helped orientate him to America and the different way of life. “The relationships with my friends, such as Scott and Chris, have made me feel welcomed. Scott helps me with my English and understanding of American society. I feel as though I have a family here, and I will never forget all I have learned from them.”
During his free time, Qiu volunteers at the women’s shelter, Lunches of Love, PetSmart adoption, Safari Texas Ranch, Fubian Church and the Chinese Environmental School Reform at Rice University, as well as tutors students at school. He is considering going to college at the University of Texas at Austin, Louisiana State University, University of Bristol and a few others and will major in Chemical Engineering.
Congratulations Jier Qiu on your ambition, talent and passion for knowledge. Good luck as you continue to discover your place in life.