What unique characteristics do you bring to the competition?
I believe my love for volunteering is what sets me a part from the other contestants, the art of philanthropy seems to be fading and that is something I would love to bring back to the table. I have a strong determination and dedication for pursuing my dreams and I want to inspire others to do the same!
Lindsay's official headshot for the Miss Maine USA Pageant
What do you expect to gain from competing in pageantry?
Over the past few years of competing for the title of Miss Maine USA I have grown tremendously as an individual. I have grown into the woman I am today and made life long friends that I will forever be grateful for. This is my last year being able to compete for the title and I have never felt more confident and comfortable showcasing all of my hard work over the past year on the stage.
What inspired you to walk on the course of beauty pageants?
I was a young woman trying to figure myself out and knew that I wanted to make a difference but needed help finding out what my calling was. I grew up watching Miss USA and saw how much they made a difference to people lives and saw all of the volunteer work that they do. After competing for the title I have found a new passion, I now volunteer my time at many non profit organizations which I hold dear and near to my heart.
What do you actually do, what have you done in the past?
I work at a upscale restaurant waitressing and managing part-time. Over the past five years of working for Fishbones American Grill, I have had the honor to make guests experiences memorable wether it be their rehearsal dinner, proposal, family gathering or just a casual date. I love meeting new people from all over the world and hearing their experiences. I love surrounding myself around others and being a part of their special night. Pageantry has inspired me to find a love for beauty. I graduated school from Spa Tech Institute this year with my Esthestics license. I currently provide make up services on the side for weddings, prom or any other needs. Finding my passion and helping others feel good and confident about themselves is the best feeling in the world!
Did you face any disappointment with yourself during the pageant journey, and how did you overcome it?
Yes of course, being judged by a panel of judges isn't an easy task. Throughout this journey I have gain self confidence and self love. I have learned that you can't please everyone, as long as you give 110% of yourself you should never be disappointed. Theres going to be people that don't like you and you know what thats okay, as long as you are authentically you, you should be proud of that. I always try and be a better person than I was yesterday. Yes you're competing with other beautiful women but you are ultimately competing with yourself, and getting past mini obstacles make the larger goals turn into reality. All you have to do is believe in yourself, focus on yourself and let God handle fate.
Many misses have said that their dream since a child was to participate in a pageant as prestigious as Miss USA? Is this your case? If so, why?
Ever since I can remember I watched the Miss USA pageant with my mom and always dreamed of having a crown and sash. Seeing the queens do good deeds by volunteering their time was what really interested me into competing. I wanted to ultimately make a difference and I always want to help/make people feel good about themselves. Volunteering is a feeling like no other, I spend a lot of my free time giving back to my community and any non profit organization that I can find locally. I find a way to participate in wether its raise money, raise awareness by walking or simply donating my time. Being able to volunteer on a larger scale and visit many different places would be amazing.
We've all seen the stereotypical portrayals of pageant contestants, Miss Congeniality, spreading peace, love and beauty throughout the world. How do you think you'll make a difference?
Having the ability to travel and volunteer all over the state and country would be a dream come true. I would love spread awareness to other non profits throught the country, meet new people hear their stories and to inspire people of all ages to follow their dreams. Everyone can make a difference and I want to inspire others to give back to their community.
