What is the craziest thing you have ever done?
On a plane trip to Washington DC with my senior class, I told the flight attendant on a whim that I wanted to be a pilot when I graduated. Before I knew it I was sitting in the right seat of the cockpit announcing takeoff. I couldn't believe it, but it got better, once we reached the air the flight attendant let me help her serve the refreshments. It was an amazing experience and it was that day that I got bit by the flying bug!

Please list any schools and universities you have attended or are attending. What was your area of study? What year did you finish at the school? What degree or certificate, if any, did you receive?.
High School: Kewanee High School; Year Completed: 2006
College: St. Ambrose University; Area of Study: Public Relations; Year Completed: 2010;

Please list any honors/awards you have received in the past 2 years?
Most Inspirational in graduating class

Are you currently employed? If so, what is your current occupation?
no

What are your strongest talents?
I feel that I was given the gift of compassion and edification. I have a strong desire to help other people and encourage them to listen to their heart and follow their dreams. I have also taken piano lessons, which give me a huge sense of personal achievement.

Name one personal accomplishment (in addition to being a State Titleholder) that makes you especially proud.
Founding the Miss You Can Do It pageant is something I am extremely proud of. It is a non-profit pageant for girls and women with special needs and challenges. I myself was born with Cerebral Palsy and feel fortunate to be able to share the pageant experience with women who have similar backgrounds.

List your hobbies and favorite activities.
Working on the Miss You Can Do It Pageant
Public Speaking
Working out
Shopping
Flying planes
Being with my friends
Going to the movies
Water color painting

What is the most important thing you want the judges to know about you?
I am living my dream. Competing for Miss USA is actually bigger than a dream come true, and I am not doing it for myself but for all people with disabilities, hopefully teaching them that its okay to take risks and that you'll never know unless you try.