Super Students
Saturday, August 30, 1997
Name: Kelii Wunder
Age: 18
School: Maui High School
Favorite subject: Mathematics, science
Pastimes: Playing piano, basketball
Future: Physician
Maui High School valedictorian Kelii Wunder credits his academic success to his parents, Arnold and Colleen Wunder. He's got his eye on medicine
"They always taught me to try my best and to listen in class," said Wunder, who has $25,000 in scholarships to attend Brigham Young University. "They kind of instilled it in me when I was a kid, so it kind of helped me along the way."
Wunder assumed student leadership roles while maintaining a 4.3 grade-point average.
He was the student body vice president and Key Club president, helping in a senior citizen fair, a UNICEF drive and a harbor cleanup.
He is receiving financial help from the Robert C. Byrd Honors Scholarship, Hawaii Rotary Youth Foundation, Sterling Scholar, Diamond Resort Scholarship and the Mamoru and Eiko Takitani Foundation.
Wunder said he wants to go to medical school and become a physician.
"I think it would a very rewarding job, knowing you've been able to help people. I hope I can give back to those who helped me along the way," Wunder said.
School counselor Earle Hotta said in addition to academic and leadership abilities, Wunder has character. "He's very much a gentleman," Hotta said. "He's the kind of guy who will come by and thank you for any help he's gotten. He's a rare commodity these days."
Gary Kubota, Star-Bulletin
