Vinson & Elkins Names Its 2025 Class of V&E Scholars

The V&E Scholars Program annually awards high school students in Houston, Dallas, and Austin not only scholarships but also summer internships at the firm, mentorship from attorneys, and reimbursement for an LSAT preparatory course. The program, coupled with Vinson & Elkins’ 2022 founding sponsorship of the UT Pipeline Program, is a centerpiece of the firm’s broader commitment to helping deserving students enjoy the sorts of educational and professional opportunities that are a springboard for a rewarding legal career.

“Our scholars program reflects our long-term commitment to fostering the next generation of legal talent,” said Milam Newby, partner and chair of the firm’s scholarship foundation. “These students have shown strong academic drive and leadership, and we’re proud to support their path toward a career in law—whether in corporate practice, public service, or wherever their ambitions take them.”

This year’s recipients are the following individuals:

AUSTIN

Harun Syed is a graduate of McNeil High School and will be attending The University of Texas at Austin in the Fall. He was a volunteer defense attorney of Cedar Creek Municipal Teen Court, where he handled real juvenile cases to provide fair consequences for minor criminal offenses. He was also part of the varsity soccer team, where he was elected as captain in his senior year.

“Being selected as a V&E Scholar is such an honor and only deepens my excitement for the next four years and my future aspirations, wherever I end up,” Syed said. “The knowledge that I have the guaranteed opportunity to intern at such a prestigious firm brings a huge sense of relief, and the experience is something I greatly look forward to. I’m blessed to know I have the support from the amazing individuals at the firm, making my dreams of helping those in need that much more achievable.”

DALLAS

Tristan Ramon is a graduate of Plano East Senior High School and will be attending the University of Texas at Austin in the Fall. He was president of the Plano East Mock Trial club and was a team member of Plano East Speech and Debate. He was also part of the Texas Cellos Ambassadorship Program.

“At UT Austin, we say, ‘What starts here changes the world,’” Ramon said. “Receiving the V&E Scholarship empowers me to step into that mission with purpose. I’m deeply honored by Vinson & Elkins’ support, which not only affirms my commitment to a future in law, but also fuels my drive to create meaningful impact through the opportunities this scholarship makes possible.”

Leslie Rueda is a graduate of Dubiski Career High School and will be attending the University of Texas at Austin in the Fall. She participated in the Princeton Summer Journalism Program, where she engaged in mock trials and analyzed legal cases.

“As a first-generation Mexican American, I grew up working alongside my parents and watching them make the most of every challenge they faced,” Rueda said. “Their grit, intelligence, and integrity have shaped me into the driven person I am today. Receiving the V&E Scholarship means I can pursue a high-quality education without adding to my family’s burden. It allows me to fully focus on my dream of becoming an immigration lawyer dedicated to advocating for immigrant families, protecting workers’ rights, and expanding access to education across the United States and Mexico. This scholarship brings me one step closer to making the world more equitable for overlooked families like mine, especially for the children caught in between.”

HOUSTON

Ayan Gupta is a graduate of Obra D. Tompkins High School and will be attending the University of Texas at Austin in the Fall. He was a dedicated member of his high school swim team, competing for three years in regional, inter-district, and intra-district meets.

“I am tremendously honored to be selected as a recipient of the V&E Scholarship,” Gupta said. “As someone who has navigated diverse experiences, this scholarship not only eases the financial burden of college, but also opens the door to a future in law and policy. I’m deeply grateful for Vinson & Elkins’ belief in my potential, and I’m excited for the opportunity to learn from the brightest minds at such an outstanding firm.”

Isabelle Lust is a graduate of William P. Clements High School and will be attending Texas A&M University in the Fall. She was a member of the Mayors Youth Advisory Council, where she completed and presented a capstone project on Bike Safety Initiative for the City of Sugar Land. She was also a member of the Girls Scouts of America, where she was a recipient of the Bronze, Silver, and Gold awards.

“When I found out I received the V&E Scholarship, I was overwhelmed with gratitude,” Lust said. “To be acknowledged for my efforts and connected to one of the most prestigious law firms in the world—it was a moment of both pride and perspective. At its core, the legal profession is about service—about standing up for others and working toward justice. That’s the heart of why I want to become a lawyer, and it’s the same value I’ve tried to live by in everything I do. This scholarship has only strengthened that calling. Thank you, Vinson & Elkins, for investing in my future. I’m excited for what lies ahead, and I carry your support with deep appreciation and renewed determination.”

Imad Shaikh is a graduate of William P. Clements High School and will be attending the University of Texas at San Antonio in the Fall. He was Co-Vice President for the Fort Bend Youth Debate Initiative, where he organized and judged tournaments with 90+ participants. He is a recipient of the Young Adult Gold Presidential Volunteer Service Award, where he completed more than 250 hours of volunteer service in a 12-month period.

“Being named a V&E Scholar is a true honor that means so much to me,” Shaikh said. “More than just financial support, it’s a reminder that dedication and effort are noticed and valued. This scholarship gives me the confidence to move forward in my education with a stronger sense of purpose, and I’m immensely grateful to Vinson & Elkins for their support.”

Ying Wan is a graduate of James E. Taylor High School and will be attending the University of Michigan in the Fall. She participated in her high school’s debate club, serving as the president, public forum captain, and policy captain.

“As a first-generation student who has always aspired to gain a greater education, the V&E Scholarship is a significant stepping stone to afford my studies and focus on a future in law,” Wan said. “This award has not only allowed me to feel supported in my journey, but has also empowered me to ambitiously chase my future. It means the world to be told that the efforts to reach out will come back to you, and this scholarship reminds me that every opportunity that you take counts.”

To learn more about scholarship opportunities with Vinson & Elkins, please visit the Scholarships section of our website.