Final answer:
Maya Ying Lin was suggested by her teacher to submit a design for the Vietnam Veterans Memorial competition, which she ultimately won with her innovative design.
Step-by-step explanation:
The correct answer to the question of who suggested Maya Ying Lin submit a design for the competition is her teacher. Maya Lin was a university student studying architecture when she decided to enter the national competition. Her teacher recognized her talent and had faith in her innovative approach to design which ultimately led to her submission of the winning proposal for the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. Her design was a departure from traditional memorials and has since become a critically acclaimed and cherished tribute to the veterans.