Some know her affectionately as Memphis but her name is Brittany Harper. The graduating senior, History major from Memphis, Tennessee was crowned Miss Hampton 2015-2016 last Friday among stiff competition. Out of 9 contestants, the reigning champ prevailed. With a platform based on mentorship for young women, a stunning red halter gown and God’s plan, Brittany finally accomplished what she has always believed was her destiny.
Her Campus Hampton University sat down with her after the big win and discussed the reality of her circumstances. “The whole time I was just doing it for the experience. I didn’t expect to win. It had been one of my goals since I got to Hampton. Everyday I came in ready to work like, “let’s get through it guys.” And the night of the show I just thought, “it’s going to be a good show, let’s do this.” When Brittany heard her name announced she remembered being shocked but calm. The feeling was overwhelming.
Photo Cred: Her Campus Hampton U Photographer Joanna Rowell
Join Her Campus Hampton U for a one-on-one Q&A session with Miss Hampton.
HC: Who has been your support system throughout this time?
BH: I would have to say it’s been my Hampton family honestly- my roommate, circle of friends, and the SOUTHSIDE, of course. I’ve just been talking to my friends about it and everyone has been supportive.
HC: Has there been any pressure?
BH: I don’t feel the pressure because I think I’m prepared. When you prepare for something for three years and you get it, it’s time to roll. This year should be a breeze.
HC: How did you prepare for it?
BH: It’s so funny because I didn’t know I was preparing for it. My life experience propelled me. It’s like life was happening and I knew what my goal was. It was destined in a way. It was my dream. I stayed focused on myself, my mind and all the desires of my heart came to life.
HC: How do you think your title as Miss Hampton will affect you as being history major?
BH: Being Miss Hampton will open up doors in itself. You meet everybody. And the legacy itself is history. I can’t believe I’m officially a part of Hampton’s history.
HC: Are you excited to work with Greg as Mr. Pirate?
BH: Yes, Greg and I got to know each other as freshman in Battle of the States as dance partners. We’re both History majors and now both have titles of the school. He couldn’t be more perfect for the job, especially us together! We make a great team. I kept thinking the other Mr. Pirate contestants better watch out for Greg because he’s coming for the spot. He’s really talented.
HC: What section of the pageant was your favorite?
BH: As much as I loved that red dress, it was actually my monologue that was my favorite. It meant something to me. I was trying to get my message across and I hope that it touched somebody. It’s called “Woman be a Woman.”
Photo Cred: @ms__harper on Instagram
HC: Have you ever felt like the odds were against you?
BH: What God has for you, no one can take away. Of course you have your moments where you doubt yourself or others doubt you but I never let that get in the way of my faith.
HC: Would you say you have officially reached Hampton Woman Status?
BH: Yes, I would say that. It’s something that ties into my platform. The characteristics of a superwoman is a Hampton Woman- poise, strength, resilience. Resilience is one word you kept hearing throughout the night. I wouldn’t be Miss Hampton right now if I wasn’t a Hampton Woman.
HC: Let’s get into some fun questions! What is your guilty pleasure?
BH: Shopping of course! I’ll go in for one thing and come out with 20 more things.
HC: What are you most looking forward to during Homecoming?
BH: I’m most looking forward to the parade and the game. I always love working on floats. And the game because I like football.
HC: What is your favorite Hampton memory?
BH: The block parties… [Laughs] No, but really. Opening Convocation because it’s the official start to our last year at Hampton. Seeing all of us in cap and gowns two days after the pageant was too real. It was something I’ll never forget. It was just too real!
HC: What would you like to say to the Her Campus audience?
BH: “The empowered woman is powerful beyond measure and beautiful beyond description.” -Steve Maraboli
That’s a quote. And the last thing is that I want to inspire people. I want someone to look at me and say, “Because of you, I didn’t give up.” With my circumstances, a lot of people would question why I even tried to be Miss Hampton. I’m ready to leave a good mark on campus. I want people to say she carried the legacy of Miss Hampton just as she should have.