Private Interview 35%
Each candidate will compete in a private, standing 9.5-minute interview at a podium. At the end of the interview, the contestant will have 30 seconds to cover any additional issues she would like to address, comment on, or clarify. There are at least five judges on the panel. Candidates are questioned on their background as presented on their resume, their educational and career goals, their opinions on current events and social issues, and their interests, hobbies and extracurricular activities. Scoring is based on communication skills, personal appearance and overall impression. Examples of acceptable interview attire include a business dress, skirt and blouse or pants and a nice top.
Talent 35%
Candidates must perform a 90 second routine of their own choosing. Some possible talents include all types of singing, dancing, instrumental music, gymnastics, baton twirling, dramatic or comedic monologues, etc. Scoring is based on the candidate’s skill and personality, interpretive ability, technical skill level, stage presence, and the totality of all elements, including costume, voice, use of body and choreography. Tap dancers may not have music with pre-recorded taps or tap sounds. Vocalists may not have any vocals on their accompaniment music. Only the candidate is permitted on stage during talent competition. Any prop brought on stage must actually be NEEDED, as non-functional props distract from the live performance. Live animals are not permitted. Props involving safety hazards, such as any form of fire, swords, knives, bow and arrows, etc. are not permitted. Projector and projection screen cannot be used. Candidates will compete in an outfit/costume of their own choosing which reflects the talent presented.
Red Carpet 15% This phase of competition allows the candidate to wear “red carpet glamour.” It gives the judges a look into how the candidate exhibits her own personal style, attitude, personality, grace and confidence.
On-Stage Interview/Social Impact Pitch 15%
In the on-stage interview phase of competition, the candidate will be asked a question formulated by the judges after the private interview and as such, is an extension of the private interview. The candidate will be asked 1 question. She will be evaluated on her ability to answer the question, charisma, expression and how well she “thinks on her feet.” In addition, a Social Impact Pitch will be presented to the audience. The social impact pitch should be a short presentation /explanation of the candidate’s social impact initiative and is between 10 and 20 seconds. This area of competition showcases each candidate’s intelligence, personality, charisma, and aptitude for the titleholder’s job. This allows audiences to truly get to know the candidate and see the candidate’s greater ability to communicate, stage presence, and commanding presence. Candidates will wear their opening number outfit for this phase of compeition.