What a National Pageant Is Really Like
Published 1:30 am Thursday, August 7, 2025
By Elizabeth Graeme
Hi Forks! As many of you know, Ryerlin Roland and I recently competed in the National Miss Jr. High School USA pageant in Washington, D.C. Getting there took nearly 24 hours—between a 5-hour bus ride to the airport, a delayed flight, and time zone changes, we arrived just in time (and very tired!) for our first event: a full-day bus tour of D.C. We saw the White House, memorials, and landmarks while getting to know other contestants. It was hot, exciting, and a whirlwind start!
The next day was orientation, paperwork, registration, photos, and our first rehearsals—learning stage positions, our walk patterns, and an opening number dance. That night we attended a Bridgerton-themed tea party, all dressed in vintage-style outfits, and participated in a gift exchange. Let’s just say people went all out—we got everything from jewelry and gift cards to silk robes and custom totes!
Day 3 kicked off early with 6 a.m. hair and makeup, then one-minute interviews with three judges (so nerve-wracking!). After more rehearsals, we launched into Night One of the stage show. We had to manage six quick costume changes in a cramped dressing room. With help from my mom, we raced to lace up dresses, pin sashes, and prep hair and jewelry—sometimes with only five minutes between appearances. I even tripped on my gown once, but I wasn’t the only one!
Optional competitions followed, where we modeled fun fashion and denim outfits, and our media videos were shown. I blanked on my routine but improvised on stage thanks to lots of practice. That night, Ryerlin and I both received EMPowered Ambassador Awards for mental health advocacy and the President’s Volunteer Service Award medals. I also won National Spokesmodel and the National Ambassador title—competing not just with junior high, but high school and college contestants!
Day 4 was finals—another early start, final rehearsals, and the opening dance before re-competing in athletic wear and evening gown. Though we didn’t win the national crown, we both placed in the Top 5—2nd and 3rd runner-up! For our first national pageant, that’s something to be proud of.
After the pageant, we celebrated with sightseeing—an escape room, Smithsonian Museum, Red Lobster, and even Brandywine Cow Cuddles (yes, the mini Highland cows actually cuddle you!).
Huge thanks to our sponsors and supporters: Forks Avenue Real Estate, Umbrella Creek Braille, Bowen Auto, Ginger’s Closet, Forks Homeslice Pizza, Mayor Tim Fletcher, Christi Baron at the Forks Forum, and so many others.
This year as Miss Washington Jr. High School USA taught me public speaking, how to advocate for a cause, interview skills, and—most of all—how to volunteer. I explored different types of community work and discovered what I enjoy (and what I don’t). While I may not return to this exact pageant system, I’m open to future competitions.
Now I’m home, ready to enjoy the rest of summer—and begin planning my next adventure: trying every sport Forks Middle School offers, and hopefully doing more volunteer work. If your organization needs help, message me!
