I have been involved in the beauty pageant world for 6 years. I started when I was 14 and I have not looked back since. In 8th grade, I moved across the country from Florida to California. I was, as every 13 year old is, awkward and shy, and I had a difficult time adjusting to my new surroundings. After being in California for about 2 weeks I checked the mail and there was a letter addressed to my mom about having me join a beauty pageant. I, of course, had my judgments but decided I would go and interview for it and see what happens. Much to my surprise, I was accepted! In my age group there were about 80 other girls, I was way in over my head! I wore almost no makeup, my hair was in its full curly-frizzy mess, and I walked on that stage as if I knew what I was doing. Looking back, I cannot believe how confident I was. At that age, I was not overly worried about what I looked like. I did not win but that did not matter at all to me.
In January of 2013, I stood, at the age of 14, on the stage surrounded by women 14-23 all striving for the same crown. These girls had several luggage bags, some were just for their shoes and several were usually for their makeup. I was clearly under prepared. Did you know butt glue was a necessity for pageants? I had no idea! Also, there are specific shoes that are referred to as “the pageant shoes”, but no one will tell you this, you just have to learn from those around you. These girls all had so many tips and tricks because they have been doing this for years and here I am, youngest girl in the pageant, ready to see what happens knowing I had nothing to risk!
I went on stage and did my best. I had confidence in myself which I had not felt before. All of these people are looking at me in a swimsuit and I am getting an applause? I was proud. I knew my name would not be called for top 10, but I was content with that.
This was about the time that I realized I did not fit into the beauty pageant stereotype and I decided I would never let myself. I was different. I am not 6″ tall, I am not blonde, I do not come from an overly wealthy family that is able to buy me expensive dresses and the best coaches. It was here that I decided if I was going to continue with pageants that I would make sure I remained true to myself and who I am.
I later went on to win 2 pageants that I will never forget. I was Miss Sacramento 2016, my senior year of high school, and Miss Northern California 2014. I have also competed in a State Pageant as Miss Paradise Teen and Miss Sierra Mountains Teen. All that I have gained is confidence and strength with a few scholarships along the way. The interview skills I have now are beyond anything that you can be taught. I have been interviewed by celebrities and many cutting-edge people in the fashion industry. I have no fear when it comes to public speaking. I have gained so much from pageants and many would be so surprised by the real life skills that can be learned in this kind of setting.
The women who participate in them are stronger than you may think. Many girls do them for confidence, some do them for scholarships, and yes, some will do them for superficial reasons.
