Alexandria missed weeks of school (and applying for scholarships) when she got COVID. She was vaccinated. She had a drippy nose and deep fatigue.

After she returned to school, we redoubled our efforts. Meeting on Tuesdays and Fridays after school.

"I submitted all of the Community Foundation of North Central Washington scholarships," she texted today. The deadline was looming. Well done!

My plan is to help her apply for fifty scholarships. It's a numbers game. My goal is for her win enough renewable scholarships to graduate with her bachelor degree debt-free.

With straight A's, Alexandria plays instruments: flute, violin and electric base guitar. Since junior year, she has been first flute and section leader. She leads by example. Alexandria plans to become a research scientist.

For over fifteen years, I have been a volunteer college mentor at the high school. I help low income children of immigrants write essays to apply for colleges and scholarships. They are the first person in their family to go to college. This is the most rewarding volunteer work I have done.

Photo: I took women I previously mentored on a hike at Icicle Gorge. From left: is becoming a doctor and oncologist. Elizabet is in medical school; she plans to be a pediatrician. Last year, Teresa and her brother bought their parents their first house. Teresa works for the City of Wenatchee directing programs for Hispanic residents.

Remarkable women. It's an honor to work with them.