Seniors Earn Full Scholarships to Top Universities Through QuestBridge

Harmony Public Schools is thrilled to announce that seniors Muammer Kara and Tensae Laki have been awarded full scholarships to their top-choice universities through the prestigious QuestBridge National College Match program. QuestBridge connects high-achieving students from low-income backgrounds with full scholarships to the nation's leading colleges and universities.

In the fall of 2025, Muammer Kara will begin his journey at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, Maryland, while Tensae Laki will head to Columbia University in New York City.

Muammer Kara: From Gold Medalist to Johns Hopkins
A four-year senior at Harmony Public Schools, Kara recently earned the Congressional Gold Medal for his exceptional dedication to community service, personal development, and leadership. His passion for computer science has driven him to excel academically and mentor others, tutoring students in coding and other STEM fields.

"I was shocked and so excited when I got my acceptance letter," Kara said. "I actually really don't like the hot weather here, so I'm looking forward to being someplace cooler."

At Johns Hopkins, Kara plans to pursue a degree in Computer Science, continuing his passion for technology and innovation.

Tensae Laki: Joins His Brother at Top-Choice University
After seven years at Harmony, Tensae discovered his acceptance to Columbia University during his free time and kept the news a surprise to share with his family later.

"I was extremely excited to have the opportunity to go someplace known for their academic excellence," Laki shared. "After celebrating with my family, I admitted I had already looked!"

Laki, who also plans to study Computer Science, has a deep interest in quantum computing and its role in exploring theoretical models of the universe. At Columbia, he will join his brother, who is also a student at the university.

Harmony Public Schools' Area Superintendent, Dr. Altindag, expressed pride in the students' accomplishments: "Both Muammer and Tensae exemplify the power of hard work, determination, and intellectual curiosity. Their success in the QuestBridge program and acceptance into their top-choice universities is a testament to their dedication and the supportive environment of Harmony Public Schools."

QuestBridge's National College Match program is highly competitive, making Muammer and Tensae's achievements even more extraordinary. Their full scholarships will cover tuition, room and board, and other essential expenses, enabling them to focus on their academic and personal goals.

Harmony blends the highest standards and expectations with rigorous math- and science-centered curriculum and dedicated and engaged teachers and families to cultivate excellence and prepare students to succeed in college, careers, and life. At Harmony Public Schools, every child can succeed, and is committed to helping them realize their full potential.

About Harmony Public Schools
Harmony Public Schools are more than 70 high-performing PreK-12 college preparatory charter schools throughout Texas. Harmony blends the highest standards and expectations, with a rigorous math- and science-centered curriculum and dedicated and engaged teachers and families to cultivate excellence and prepare students to succeed in college, careers, and life. At Harmony Public Schools, we believe every child can succeed, and we are committed to helping them realize their full potential. To learn more about Harmony Public Schools, please visit harmonytx.org. Harmony is currently accepting applications for the 2025-2026 academic year. Students may apply at harmonytx.org/apply.