Mahit Vunnam Memorial Scholarship
Mahit Vunnam
April 29, 2002–October 30, 2021
Mahit was a unique and gentle giant, drawing attention with his towering 6-foot-3 stature. His warm, infectious laugh made everyone feel welcome. In conversations, he was mature, allowing space for others to speak, correcting mistakes and answering questions. Mahit was easy to love and approachable for a comforting hug. He playfully navigated through difficult days, caring deeply for each person in his life. No matter how chaotic life became, he was always there for you. Once you got to know Mahit, his colorful soul made you never want to leave his side.
Mahit loved spending time with his family and understood their importance, even when his peers didn’t fully grasp it. He eagerly sought every opportunity to be with his parents and elder sister, eagerly anticipating holidays and birthdays with childlike enthusiasm. He approached gift-giving thoughtfully, ensuring that each present created lasting memories. Mahit was truly a radiant diamond within his family.
Despite his shy nature and diverse upbringing, young Mahit had a curious mind and a thirst for knowledge. He approached tasks with diligence and discipline, overcoming challenges such as homework, violin, swimming and Boy Scouts. These experiences shaped his ethical leadership and instilled valuable values. As an accomplished Eagle Scout and captain of his swim team, Mahit garnered respect and admiration from his peers.
Despite his shy nature and diverse upbringing, young Mahit had a curious mind and a thirst for knowledge. He approached tasks with diligence and discipline, overcoming challenges such as homework, violin, swimming and Boy Scouts. These experiences shaped his ethical leadership and instilled valuable values. As an accomplished Eagle Scout and captain of his swim team, Mahit garnered respect and admiration from his peers.
In high school, Mahit focused on math, science and community service. He actively participated in TMSCA, NHS, Science Olympiad and science fair competitions, even reaching regionals as a freshman. Mahit held the position of National Honor Society vice president and played the violin until his senior year. During summers, he volunteered at Memorial Hermann, tutored math and science, and taught English to refugee children at the PAIR Houston. Remarkably, he continued volunteering at Dell Medical Center in Austin until the day before his passing.
Mahit’s commitment to personal growth and positively impacting others exemplified his remarkable character.
Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, Mahit graduated with honors from Dulles High School in Sugarland, Texas, in 2020. He co-founded Unity Tutors, an online tutoring company, with two friends, dedicating his time to teaching, and displaying patience and generosity.
In high school, Mahit focused on math, science and community service. He actively participated in TMSCA, NHS, Science Olympiad and science fair competitions, even reaching regionals as a freshman. Mahit held the position of National Honor Society vice president and played the violin until his senior year. During summers, he volunteered at Memorial Hermann, tutored math and science, and taught English to refugee children at the PAIR Houston. Remarkably, he continued volunteering at Dell Medical Center in Austin until the day before his passing.
Mahit’s commitment to personal growth and positively impacting others exemplified his remarkable character.
Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, Mahit graduated with honors from Dulles High School in Sugarland, Texas, in 2020. He co-founded Unity Tutors, an online tutoring company, with two friends, dedicating his time to teaching, and displaying patience and generosity.
Mahit’s journey to The University of Texas at Austin began with his acceptance into the High School Research Program, which intensified his passion for science and research. Drawn to the inclusive and open-minded atmosphere, he eagerly joined the Health Science Scholars honors program, choosing UT Austin over UC Berkeley and other college offers. UT Austin’s first year of online classes proved transformative for Mahit as he reflected on his future and merged his passions for science, service and leadership. He decided to pursue a career as a doctor, motivated by his desire to guide others toward improved self-care and witness the revitalized hope in their eyes. With newfound clarity, he wholeheartedly engaged in activities to enhance his chances of admission to medical school.
Mahit’s journey to The University of Texas at Austin began with his acceptance into the High School Research Program, which intensified his passion for science and research. Drawn to the inclusive and open-minded atmosphere, he eagerly joined the Health Science Scholars honors program, choosing UT Austin over UC Berkeley and other college offers. UT Austin’s first year of online classes proved transformative for Mahit as he reflected on his future and merged his passions for science, service and leadership. He decided to pursue a career as a doctor, motivated by his desire to guide others toward improved self-care and witness the revitalized hope in their eyes. With newfound clarity, he wholeheartedly engaged in activities to enhance his chances of admission to medical school.
In fall 2021, Mahit embarked on his UT Austin journey, actively participating in a science research program and co-founding Project Sunshine as a dedicated student in the Health Science Scholars program. Despite his pursuit of medical school, he made regular visits to home to maintain balance. Unfortunately, his life was tragically cut short in a car accident on October 30, 2021.