When I was young, I had a vibrant personality with confidence and a smile to match. As I began my journey in the world, I slowly began to care more and more how I looked to those who surrounded me. Up until my graduation from Warsaw High School, I constantly compared myself to others, and I forgot what made me special and unique.

I struggled with understanding why my body was the way it was and why I couldn’t be like the other more ‘beautiful’ women that surrounded me on television, in magazines, and even my day-to-day life. I soon realized that life was too short, that I had to embrace the body, personality, and life that God chose to give me.

After I broke away from those tight chains, I really saw myself as a beautiful woman and I flourished. During the past few years, I have enjoyed my life more than I ever thought that I would simply by loving myself. I have a healthy view of my body, and understand what makes me special. My childlike liveliness has returned and has transformed me into a happier, more graceful, and confident woman.

I am also an extremely active person; however, this hasn’t always been the case. Recently I have fallen in love with running, and have committed to a marathon in Indianapolis this October. During my time at Purdue University I have joined and helped lead Purdue Swim Club which led me to compete in two triathlons thus far. I believe that it is extremely important to strive to find exercises that make you happy, healthy, and equipped with a competitive edge.

That is why I want to enter into the Miss Indiana USA Pageant. I feel that I can show women that their uniqueness and beauty shouldn’t be compared. I want to inspire women everywhere to be themselves and to reassure them that they are beautiful, no matter what.

After being accepted into the pageant, I have realized that having the financial means to compete will be my obstacle. I am requesting the help of those in the communities that have touched my life. I wish to be a contestant who is honest, healthy, fit, and ambitious. I know that I’m not the typical competitor, but I strive to exemplify what beauty truly is, and I want to help those who are stuck just like I was.

I have come to GoFundMe.com in the hopes of pushing past this financial burden and really impact the world. Even if a monatary donation isn't something you want to consider, please email me at [email redacted] if this post has inspired you. I would love to hear your story and become even more inspired to represent women everywhere. 

Thank you for your consideration!