Lessons of a Delayed Pageant Queen by Kayla

Lessons of a Delayed Pageant Queen by Kayla - July 2024 Scholarship Essay

2024 has been quite a rollercoaster for me! I started the year diving into my second semester of freshman year in college, experiencing a whirlwind of new things. While I eagerly embraced the independence of "living" on my own, I also realized how much I missed having my parents around every day. Simultaneously, I was gearing up to compete for Miss DC Teen USA, knowing it would be my last chance in the teen category of the USA system.

Throughout the spring semester, I pushed myself to the limit to achieve a perfect 4.0 GPA. Academically, I felt fulfilled, knowing I had given my all to my freshman year. Similarly, I poured my heart into preparing for the pageant like never before. I felt ready and confident.

On June 29, the day of the pageant arrived. I was filled with excitement, especially after a successful interview the day before that moved me to tears of happiness. Standing on stage with the other contestants, I was thrilled to be named 2nd runner up to Miss DC Teen USA. In that moment, I was genuinely happy for the winner, who also happens to be a friend of mine. After the pageant ended, my family celebrated and praised my efforts. As I removed my makeup later that night, I reflected on how hard I had worked and how prepared I felt, yet it wasn't enough this time.

I've learned a valuable lesson this year: what is meant for you will not pass you by. Miss DC Teen USA may not have been meant for me at this moment, but I believe that dreams delayed are not dreams denied. Although I won't be able to compete as a Teen USA contestant again, when the time is right, if a pageant title is meant for me, I'll be prepared and eager to embrace it.