Maryn Fischer, our December Student of the Month, is an active and accomplished high school senior with a passion for working with children with special needs, serving as a Camp Counselor and Inclusion Advisor at Kish Special Recreation Association and President of Peer Pals. She plans to donate the $100 from the club to Opportunity House. Maryn is a participant in the Northwestern Medicine Discovery Program and plans to study Biology/Pre-Med at NYU, USC, or the University of Pennsylvania. Following are the wonderful remarks she shared with the Rotary Club this week:
"First and foremost, I want to express my gratitude to all of you. Thank you for honoring me with this incredible recognition. Standing here today and speaking to you is truly a privilege. Rather than focusing solely on this honor, I'd like to share something more personal - my passions, the ever-constant beliefs that define me, and the principles that guide my work, education, and my life.
One of my greatest passions is working with kids with special needs. This work has profoundly shaped my understanding of resilience, empathy, and the value of individualized support. Each child brings unique strengths and challenges to the table, and it's a privilege to help them grow, overcome obstacles, and celebrate their successes - no matter how small or insignificant they may seem to others. Through this work, I've learned of the beauty of diversity, the importance of patience, and the necessity of fostering environments where everyone can thrive. These lessons don't just stay within that work - they influence how I approach every relationship and task in my life.
Beyond this however, I believe that art holds the key to life. It teaches us to find beauty in the ordinary and even in the discomfort we endure, to embrace perspectives different from our own, and to accept people as they are. I believe in the importance of women in STEM, not just as contributors but as trailblazers shaping the future of innovation. Curiosity is another constant for me. It drives discovery, creativity, and the belief that one day, we will find the cure to all diseases that riddle society, whether they be physical or emotional.
I also believe in the importance of forgiveness - and the effort it takes to let go of resentment we hold for others because of the pain inflicted onto us by them, and the liberating feeling that carries to do so. Forgiveness isn't about forgetting, but rather about freeing ourselves from the burdens of resentment. And of course, I value authenticity - living as your true self without conforming to ease the discomfort of others. Being unapologetically me.
But above all, I am passionate about change. Change is the foundation of progress. It reminds us that while it may sometimes feel like we are alone, we are all part of something larger. We are part of a system that we have a responsibility to sustain and improve - a system that can only thrive if we are willing to embrace change and work together. Change can definitely be daunting, but it also serves as an opportunity - a call to action that invites each of us to take part in shaping a better world.
Ultimately, passion and perseverance are the keys to meaningful work. Whether it's working with children, championing inclusion, or striving for growth. I believe we all have the capacity to keep moving forward, to remain curious, to extend kindness, and to be the change.
Thank you."