In the Miss America system talent is worth 50 percent of a contestant's points so my mom encouraged me to give it a try. And once I decided to do it, like anything else, I gave it 110 percent.

One of my Miss America judges called me a "God-clutcher" way back when because I spoke about my faith being an important part of my life during my interview.

I'm a big believer in always challenging yourself and learning new skills.

My messaging is not just to empower women, it's actually more directed at men because I think it's important for the men on college campuses to hear a women's perspective on how you shouldn't behave in the workplace.

Self esteem is built from the inside out and that is my inspiring message to all people.

Being REAL means showing people who you are underneath all the TV make up too.

I've never understood why it's a negative to showcase a talented, smart woman who also happens to be attractive.