By Megan Hartman
Meet Kelsey Carithers, a senior from Gastonia, NC. This year will be Kelsey’s second time competing in the Miss GWU Pageant.
What motivated you to participate in the Miss GWU Pageant?
Last year I had the opportunity to participate in the pageant and I thoroughly enjoyed the entire experience, from meeting each of the girls and learning their stories to learning exactly which way to pop our hips for the opening number. The entire experience was great for gaining skills socially and professionally as the interview was a good practice for interviews I will experience upon graduating in May.
What do you think makes you a good contestant?
Throughout high school and college, I really struggled with my body image. I fought the mirror every morning thinking I was not good enough. I had a teacher in high school who called me sunshine and she never failed to tell our class that we were loved and capable of great things. I got involved with a church and went to a camp Caswell where I heard a message about finding your validation in Christ and that has been my motivation. I want everyone to know they are worthy, that they are a somebody. And I hope to bring that sunshine and love to each of these girls throughout the entire pageant experience.
What has been your favorite part of the pageant process so far?
My favorite part of the pageant process so far is the photoshoot and the opening number dance rehearsals.
What talent are you planning on showcasing during the pageant?
Years ago, my grandfather made each of the 5 grandchildren in our family a mountain dulcimer. This was one of his many passions, but he shared this passion with his grandchildren– every summer we would go to the mountains together and every night we circled around the living room with our dulcimers and played songs together. My grandfather passed away this past January, but for my talent I will be playing a dulcimer that he made. It is a “sweetheart dulcimer” meaning there are two fret boards which face each other so two people can play face-to-face. I will be playing the dulcimer alone, but I know who will be sitting on the other side in spirit.
What are you looking forward to the most?
I have already enjoyed getting to know each of the girls and look forward to hearing more about their time here at Gardner-Webb as well as what brought them here.
Check back with us to meet a new Miss GWU Candidate each day leading up to the pageant! The pageant will take place in the Dover Theatre, on April 2, at 3:00 p.m.
