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Marvin Chinchilla

Biography

Highlights of Young Scholar Experience:  The Scholar Weekends are without a doubt the best highlight for Marvin Chinchilla.  Every second of the programs were special for this young Virginian, perhaps because of the many economic obstacles he and his family faced.  Marvin hopes to eventually become a veterinarian and thanks to the Foundation he was able to participate in summer programs which nurtured and reinforced his interest in the field.  In particular he went off to Hawaii and worked at a university there with marine biologists and saw first-hand “how content one can be working on something you truly love.”  During the summer before his senior year of high school Marvin took a pre-veterinarian class at the prestigious Tufts University School of Veterinarian Medicine in New England.  In addition, with the Foundation’s assistance, he secured a part-time position at a local veterinary clinic. 

Profile:  Marvin Chinchilla’s days are pretty full.  An honor student at Washington-Lee High School in Northern Virginia, the young man was also a stand-out athlete, played violin in the honors orchestra, is working on a second black belt in karate, and volunteered with his church and other organizations.  That doesn’t leave much time for a part-time job.  But Marvin somehow found the time to work eight hours a week at a local animal Hospital and it was truly a labor of love.  “I don’t remember when I decided I was going to make veterinary medicine my career,” said Marvin. “The experience I have gained at the hospital the past two years has only helped to reassure me that this is the job for me.” 

Inspiration: Marvin’s inspiration comes from his mother, who is also a certified teacher.  “She teaches me something new academically all the time,” but added the most valuable lessons he learned from her were life skills. “In addition she is my confidant, my adviser and my friend.” 

Aspiration: As previously stated, Marvin someday hopes to become a veterinarian and open an animal hospital. 

Making a Difference:  For over two years Marvin has been a trusted aide at the Ballston Animal Hospital in Arlington, VA.  The professional and support staff at the clinic enjoy Marvin’s dedication and thoroughness. 

Accolades: Marvin was named “Student of the Semester” in 2009 at Washington-Lee High School and has been a fixture on the Honor Roll. 

Interesting Fact: Anyone who has ever heard Marvin play the guitar knows he is terrific and has mastered the instrument.  They would be interested to know he’s never taken a lesson and is completely self-taught.

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