Introductions

Jr. Teen Contestant Taylor Hanson in

Interview attire.

Teen Contestant Amanda Jordan Hoy

Public speaking is the number one fear above spiders, snakes, you name it. Having the courage just to be on stage giving an introduction is an accomplishment in its own.

One of the benefits of competing is being able to overcome this fear, and given the opportunity to practice just makes it that much better.

At your state pageant, all you have to do is have an introduction ready and memorized, and at rehearsal you will have a chance to practice it, while at the workshop you will learn how to deliver it.

The biggest mistake girls make is stressing out on what to say, what matters really is how you say it. You can have the greatest, catchiest introduction but if your delivering it with a frown or no enthusiasm or any voice fluctuation it is not going to stick out.

What makes you want to pick up a magazine or a movie? Something catches your attention, you can do that same thing with your introduction!

It is your chance to show the judges that you are confident enough to speak to a crowd, because as Miss Missouri American Coed you will have many opportunities to take part in events, represent MO at the national pageant, be at parades (and in them), and interact with many different people all involving social skills, and speech proficiency.

Help is all around you, practice with friends, family members, and even the directors. Before you know it, not only will you feel like a pro, but you will sound like one too!