Many people don't realize how much time and dedication go into beauty pageants. Being a pageant contestant requires much more than a pretty face; it requires hard work and a desire to be heard. Recently crowned Miss La Crosse, UW-L sophomore Raenna Johnson, has what it takes to succeed.
Johnson first became involved with beauty pageants her senior year of high school when she won Miss Holmen 2007. The chance to win scholarships was what pushed her towards being a contestant, and her Miss Holmen win rewarded her with $2,000 in scholarship money.
Johnson also wanted to use pageants as a way to project a message very important to her. About four years ago, her brother Tyler ended his life as the result of a methamphetamine addiction. This tragedy inspired Johnson to speak out on drug use prevention and awareness, which was her platform in the recent Miss La Crosse pageant.
While the competition to be crowned Miss La Crosse took place in mid September, the preparation process started six weeks before the pageant. Contestants were required to practice twice a week for the first few weeks and then spend every night of the final week rehearsing.
Miss La Crosse is associated with Miss America, so the pageants are formatted in the same way. By winning Miss La Crosse, Johnson was able to go home with over $5,000 worth of scholarships and a chance to compete for the title of Miss Wisconsin this June.
Johnson also gained the opportunity to share her platform with the community during her yearlong reign as Miss La Crosse. Her goal is to work with the school district and bring in people who could give her presentation a different perspective, such as recovering addicts. When asked how often she would share her platform, Johnson said, "My goal is to be doing something at least three times a month. Once a week would be awesome."
Balancing her pageant responsibilities with school, two part-time jobs, and a social life is a challenge for Johnson. During Oktoberfest her schedule was even busier, as she was given Fest duties as well.
"You learn to appreciate every hour of the day," Johnson said. She described herself as a go-getter, saying that she doesn't really give herself a break. "I have things I want to do on top of the things I have to do," she said, adding, "I think I'm addicted to stress; I thrive on it."
Having transferred to UW-L this year from WWTC, Johnson admits that it's hard not having time to be involved in campus organizations and meet new people. While her major is currently undeclared, she is leaning towards communication studies. "I've always liked the idea of news anchoring," she said.
Whatever Johnson ends up doing will likely involve her love for public speaking. Her passion for expressing herself is why she enjoys beauty pageants so much. "I love the chance to be a role model," she said, "I love having a voice and being able to spread my message. I also love the connections I can make within the community."
As a high achiever and goal-oriented person, Johnson's future is looking bright. Whether she ends up as Miss America or a strong voice in the drug prevention movement, she's sure to be heard.
Be the first to comment on this article!