As you know, the South is known for its hospitality, traditions, football, pageants, and food. Football is almost like a religion here. People say their priorities are faith, family, and then football. People eat, breathe, and sleep it in the South. Its a huge deal.

Modeling and pageants help me overcome feeling insecure about the way that I look and my height.

Pageant makeup is so different from your day-to-day look. When you're on stage you really have to pack it on.

I'm from Alabama and I have morals and I have class. That's my personality.

Many girls prepare their whole lives for this one moment. For me, I see Miss USA as an opportunity to reach new and greater heights in the future.

You have to be 100 percent comfortable with yourself and who you are. You'll have unflattering pictures posted on the Internet for all to see, so you have to be able to handle yourself and stay true to yourself.

Every single model wants to be in Sports Illustrated, and I feel extremely blessed to have that opportunity.