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Lesson We Can All Learn from Miss America

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at C of C chapter.

This past Sunday Miss America 2016, Betty Cantrell passed along her crown to her successor, Miss Arkansas, Savvy Shields. Even if you’re not into beauty pageants I’m sure you’ve heard of Miss America and the famous “There She Is” line. Despite continued controversy we can all learn something from pageants such as Miss America and Miss Universe.  

Be Confident

To be in the Miss America program or any pageant requires a ton of confidence. These women teach us the importance of having faith in yourself as they strut their stuff on stage. Confidence is something that can help us in everything we do. Whether it’s applying for jobs, interviewing for a position, applying for graduate school, or even going on a first date, confidence is key.  Everyone wants to see it.  If you don’t believe in yourself, how can you expect others to?

Always Smile

In all beauty pageants it is a requirement to smile. The judges aren’t going to pick a girl who’s frowning or seems unfriendly. Smiling is something small that can make yours and other people’s day a lot better.  Even if you’re having a bad day, smiling can turn it around.  Plus, you’re never fully dressed without one! And that’s a ~major key~

Be Yourself

Always stay true to yourself. Recently crowned Miss America wore an all black gown on stage and went against the stereotypical sparkling pageant look. She was true to what she wanted and not what others preferred. Don’t let others talk you into things that you may not have picked yourself. Miss America rocked her black gown because it is what she wanted and felt comfortable in.  She was herself and it shows that being you is the best thing you can do.  Because, you are amazing.  

Follow Your Dreams

The journey to Miss America is not an easy one. In order to make it that far girls must first compete and win their local pageant. After that they move up and shoot for their State Title. If they are lucky enough to represent their state at the Miss America pageant there’s still 51 other girls competing for one title. Following your dreams isn’t easy but that doesn’t mean you’ll never get there. Hard work and perseverance will always pay off.

Whether you watch these pageants religiously or not, there are great lessons to be learned from them.  Not only do they show that women are powerhouses but that they can accomplish amazing things.  And, we’re all about lady bosses.  HCXO

I am currently a sophomore at the College of Charleston. I am majoring in Exercise Science with a minor in Political Science. At CofC I am on the crew team, a member of Sigma Kappa and on the HerCampus team. I am originally from Fenwick Island, DE but now live in Charleston full time. My favorite things to do in my spare time are to go shopping or to go for a run!
Born and raised in the northernmost state, Alaska, Marissa flew south to College of Charleston for a little more sun and a little more heat.  She believes a good life involves coffee, puppies, and more coffee and free time is her favorite thing not to have.