Amanda Kozak is a magna cum laude graduate from Valdosta State University with a Bachelor of Science Degree in early childhood education. She was able to pay her own way through college with various scholarships including $50,000 from the Miss America Organization.

A Pacific Islander (Guamanian American), Amanda grew up in a single parent home with her mother, who was active duty in the Air Force. At the age of 8 Amanda welcomed to her life a step father. However, she did not meet her biological father until she was 18. Moving around and dealing with her mother and step-father being deployed in various places helped to make Amanda more aware of what children need in life. Amanda is a national spokesperson and six year volunteer for the Big Brothers Big Sisters Organization. Additionally, she works with H.E.R.O. for children, the largest organization for children affected by HIV/AIDS in Georgia. When she is not busy with her philanthropy she also has a real job as a Part-time Organizer for the Georgia Association of Educators as well as represented by the People Store.

In her free time Amanda is an avid reader and movie watcher. She also loves to spend time with her family, friends, and her Shih Tzu, Percy.