Marya’s hard work at school is paying off academically – she currently carries a 4.0 grade point average -- and athletically, as a member of her school’s volleyball, basketball, and cross country teams.
Marya has performed many hours of volunteer community service, including with the Dilley Youth Sports Association helping with a youth football and cheerleading program in her community, and volunteering with her classmates to work the concessions stand during Dilley High School football games. She is also active in her church’s youth group, where she has volunteered on various projects.
For homecoming week, Marya donned a traditional dress from Kazakhstan, much to the delight of her teachers and fellow students. Recently, Marya was among a group of students from her local high school who designed and submitted ornaments to be considered for display on the Texas State Capitol Christmas Tree in Austin. Her design will be prominently displayed among those of other students throughout the State of Texas who also submitted outstanding designs.
Needless to say, Marya has made many friends and is loved by her host family. They all recognize how much love she has for everyone she meets and how she is able to make others feel valued and accepted. Friends admire her for her slogan on Instagram: "No words needed." For Marya, this is a perfect quote.