FL Star Student: Lakeland Teen Won't Let Autism Define Her

LAKELAND, FL — Star Students are found in classrooms, on concert and theater stages and at debate lecterns, and out in the community doing good things to make life better for all of us.

Here at Patch, we've launched an initiative to help recognize Star Students, and we’re working to tell the stories of these outstanding kids to their neighbors.

This submission comes from Mary Garrabrant who nominated her daughter, Marissa, a senior in Lakeland.

Marissa has autism and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Despite her disabilities, she has excelled at school.

Her mother said Marissa believes that "autism doesn't define your journey in life."

Congratulations on your achievements, and all of our best wishes to you in the future, Marissa!

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Know an outstanding student? Nominate him or her here.