I spent my whole life working against myself. When I realized that wasn't the life for me and began working to better myself, everything started to fall in place. I see the rewards that life brings when you strive to achieve your goals.

I've been able to take a life consisting of confusion and heartache, and find the meaning for it. I've worked my way through many, many tough issues and been able to move on. Now, one of my goals is to help other young people do the same. I am currently achieving this goal by raising my two sons and being the Mentor of the EGADZ My Home. My reward is watching the girls grow, and growing with them by showing them that dreams are achievable by focusing on, and reaching for, higher education.

I feel that a bachelor's degree in social work and what seems like a lifetime of experience will be the balanced combination I need to further enhance my skills. The opportunity to give back to my community and the people around me will be my ultimate goal.

The Fred Mitchell Memorial Scholarship allows me to achieve these goals and I would like to thank LuAn Mitchell for this opportunity.

Mandy Zubot
2005 recipient of the Fred Mitchell Memorial Scholarship