Why Compete?
Why should I compete?
What is there to gain?
Can I even be successful?
I asked myself all these questions and more before I took my first step in my Miss America Journey. Taking the leap of faith to put yourself, your thoughts, and your abilities, onstage to literally have people Judge you is scary! Ultimately it came down to one question: What do I have to lose? I figured, the worst that was going to happen is I would lose (and I did. A Lot.) but I could find success just by trying.
The secret to finding success even on the days you “lose” is by changing your mindset and setting 2 goals. One goal I set would have to do with the competition like winning the crown, or an interview award. Sometimes I met this goal, but ultimately it was the biased opinion of 5-6 judges. This is why I made a second goal for each time I competed, which had nothing to do with the scoring or competition. This way, I would walk away successful no matter what!
Throughout my 10 years competing in the Miss America Opportunity, I have gained so many skills! My professional skills have grown exponentially as I have been challenged to develop and further a variety of skills through the competition process. Learning how to effectively and efficiently communicate thoughts and opinions through answering a 30 second on stage question, makes me feel prepared for any question that is thrown my way. Marketing myself, my passions, and the program has taught me so much about society and what people value. And having the opportunity to travel to over 50 counties in Ohio has allowed me to interact and speak with a variety of individuals hailing from diverse backgrounds which has enlightened me to the issues people in my state face, and how we can best support one another.
The Miss Ohio Scholarship Program has provided me with a safe and stable community that has encouraged me and allowed me to heal and grow at my own pace. Growing up in a divided family, in a divided community, I cherish the valuable friends and mentors, this program has connected me with, who have now become like family to me.
I have created change as an advocate for Children’s Mental Health as I work to transform my pain into a purpose, ensuring no child will ever have to feel the way I once did. I have been named to the Ohio Board for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, and now work with Ohio Legislators on bills impacting mental health. I very easily could have become a statistic, but now I am working to rewrite the statistics as a change maker!
I first started competing because I lived in a low income household and needed scholarships to pursue higher education. I have now become a first-generation college graduate thanks to over $15,000 in scholarships I’ve earned throughout my time competing. These scholarships have come from competition placements, interview, talent, evening gown, and fitness awards, and more. Many are surprised to learn of the additional scholarship opportunities for academic success, career ambitions, written essays, and for just simply competing in the organization.
So whether you came for the scholarships, the skill building, to perform, or simply to try something new, allow the Miss America Opportunity to work it’s Magic and be prepared for a lifechanging experience!
SKILL BUILDING
Public Speaking, Interviewing, Time Management, Marketing, Social Media, & More!
FRIENDS/ FAMILY
“Sisterhood” and “Miss Ohio Family” are phrases heard often, and for good reason!
CHANGE MAKING
Making a difference through Advocacy, Community Service, Mentorship & More!
SCHOLAR
SHIP
You can earn scholarships even if you don’t win the crown. I’ve won over $15,000!
