JUNE 11, 2009 ISSUE
Boone-Based North Carolina Junior Miss To Compete in International Junior Miss
Boone resident Emily Melton was recently chosen as the North Carolina representative for the International Junior Miss Scholarship Program.
Part of the joy of living in the High Country is the beautiful scenery, which is only improved by Boone resident Emily Melton, the recently chosen North Carolina representative for the International Junior Miss Scholarship Program.
“I would love to have the opportunity to help others and to be a positive role model, especially for young girls, who, like me, never thought they would be on stage in a pageant,” said Melton.
Melton is a 21-year-old ASU student majoring in electronic media/broadcasting. She has competed in other pageants but this is her first state title.
Melton’s drive to compete in scholarship programs is more than the desire to wear a crown and be declared the prettiest girl in North Carolina.
“Scholarship programs allow contestants to work hard for a goal and receive rewards when they achieve them…You have to maintain good standing in academics, know how to present yourself in an interview, develop public speaking skills [and] be involved in your school and community. Beauty is not the only factor, and in many cases, not judged at all,” she explained.
Through Melton’s experiences, she has gathered the confidence necessary to compete in July at the International Junior Miss competition being held in Orlando, Fla.
“I always get a little nervous before I go out on stage. Then you realize you’re just there to have a good time and that the judges are people just like you and then all the butterflies go away,” she added.
Melton plans to continue participating in scholarship programs including the Miss America pageant, “I remember watching Miss America on television when I was little and thinking you had to be really special to be in a pageant.”
Part of what sets her apart is her musical abilities. Although the talent portion of the International Junior Miss competition is optional, Melton will be participating, playing “Concerto A minor” by Edvard Grieg on the piano.
To continue to represent North Carolina to the best of her ability, Melton needs the community’s support.
“I am currently having a raffle. I am selling entries into the raffle for $1 and am donating 25 percent of all the funds I raise to the charity of the winners’ choice. Donations can be sent to ASU Box 21921, Boone NC 28608. Checks should be made payable to International Junior Miss.”
The rest of the funds will be used to get Melton to Orlando in July and in other preparations for the contest.
“Everyone has been really supportive, and I’m so thankful for their support,” added Melton.
Community Interest
News & Notes
Events
Arts & Entertainment
