Sparkles and Service: December 2012

Nationals was one of the most exciting weeks of my reign! I think being a teen, I was able to remember, retain, and gain a lot more from the experience. I can absolutely say that I am so blessed and honored to have been chosen to represent New York and get a chance to meet some of the most amazing girls in the nation.

The most poignant memory I have is when Megan's name was called as the National Queen, all the girls literally leapt out of their seats and ran to the side of stage and began screaming on top of our lungs. We all didn't care that we had just lost, we were so absolutely proud of and thrilled for this beautiful girl who had just defied all the odds and captured one of the most coveted crowns in the nation. She is a reflection of what a NAM girl truly is and is so genuine, sweet, and deserving and we are all so excited to have her represent us this year!!

That being said, each girl in the NAM Teen Queen Class of 2012 was so deserving of the national title. I am so honored to call these girls my sisters- they have accomplished so much in their communities, academically, and spiritually. They are so inspiring and uplifting. I had such a great time spending the week with them, whether it was exploring Disneyland, goofing off at rehearsals, or keeping ourselves calm backstage. These girls truly embody the qualities of National American Miss!

I was so honored and excited to be a Top 5 Spokesmodel competitor and talk about S.P.A.R.K., (check out our FB Page or our Beta Site: www.sparkselfesteem.org ) win Volunteer Service Award for my work with S.P.A.R.K., Best Resume, and the NAM Alumni Essay Contest for my reflections on the power of my great NAMily.

As I shift my focus to my future endeavors, I know that my time with National American Miss will remain a part of me that I carry everywhere. I am so thankful to this organization and I am so glad I could give back them as a state queen. My last year may not have ended in the national crown, but I don't think I could have asked for better memories, friends, and experiences to top off my time at NAM.

To find pictures of my Nationals experience, you can check out the Facebook Album which has a few pictures from my time there! ;)

But here are my favorite pictures from Nationals:

At Disneyland we met a few princesses and got to make THEM feel special. :)