Allen ISD Student Inspired to Help Others
“When I dream about the future, I dream about helping others.”
AUTHOR: ERIN McCANN
Allen ISD Director of Digital Media and Marketing
S
IXTH-GRADER Marly Vargas is ready for the future. This Boyd Elementary student knows exactly what she wants to do when she grows up, and her classes in Allen ISD are helping to put her on her path to success. As early as second grade, Marly knew she aspired to become a doctor. By the time she was in third grade, Marly had refined that goal and knew she wanted to be a prosthetist, a medical professional who fits and makes artificial limbs for people with disabilities. Even more specifically, Marly wants to combine medicine and engineering to specialize in prosthetics that are controlled by brain waves. “The brain is the center of your body,” said Marly, “it controls everything, and with science, it can control prosthetic limbs too.” Marly’s passion began while watching TV with her parents at home. She saw a show about a special kind of doctor that helped people who were born without arms or legs. Marly, a naturally kind and empathetic student, felt a real passion for being able to provide a service that makes lives easier for people with hardships. An opportunity to pursue that passion presented itself when Marly’s teacher, Cinda Smith, told her about a STEM camp at the University of Texas
at Dallas. Marly quickly applied for the summer camp and an accompanying scholarship. She worked during her lunches and late into the evenings to complete the submission in time. The essay, entitled Marly had a Little Limb, details her passion for science, engineering, medicine, and helping others. “When I dream about the future, I dream about helping others,” said Marly. Earlier this year, Marly was notified that not only had she received the scholarship, but also that several private donations were made to help her reach her financial goal to be able to attend STEM camp this summer. Marly’s parents are a big support system in her life and a constant source of encouragement. “Marly has always been interested in science,” said her father Frank Vargas. “From the way she plays and entertains herself to the way she observes everything around her. We are very proud of her.” Judith Coffman, Marly’s principal at Boyd, shared how inspirational Marly is as part of the Boyd Elementary community. “Her commitment and her parents’ commitment to helping her learn and grow is amazing.”
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