As my pageant sisters and I were waiting for the results as to who would be crowned
Miss Rising Star Cover Girl 2011, I began to think about all the preparation that I had undergone
in order to represent this fine magazine. I felt confident that I had researched and analyzed all
the possible topics that could be asked by the judges. I had also practiced my dance routine
almost to perfection, and I kept reminding myself that I could not forget the proper poise that
it takes to project oneself when in the public eye. I also thought about how important it is to
come to terms with the realization that I might not be the judges’ choice to represent the Rising
Star Magazine, and that this is OK. On the contrary, I also thought about the responsibilities
that representing the magazine would entail, but the most exhilarating feeling was knowing
that I would serve as a role model to many young ladies.

I am nineteen years old, and I am a sophomore at Texas State University in San Marcos.
I am proud to have graduated from Weslaco High School in 2009 where I was very involved
in extra-curricular activities, but most importantly, where I got the best education possible to
prepare me for the courses I am now taking at Texas State University.

I have three sisters and one brother with whom I am very close. My parents are the
best parents that anyone can ask for. Leaving to San Marcos to pursue my college education
was not easy since I had spent the last seventeen years with people that I knew had been
there for me. On the other hand, the upbringing they had provided for me had given me the
skills I needed to survive in the world in which we live today. These lessons are what keep me
grounded and focused to accomplish what I set out to do.

In addition to the academic learning that I am attaining at Texas State University, I have
learned important life lessons that I will use for the rest of my life. I have learned that I have to
be more organized to maximize my time in studying and having a social life. I have also learned
that becoming an adult means one has to be more responsible. Mom and Dad are no longer
there to wake me up in the morning, to maintain my car, or keep my refrigerator stocked to
avoid eating out, which can be both unhealthy and expensive.

I feel confident and certain that the future holds many possibilities for me. I am excited
about endless opportunities that I can look forward to; however, I know that I must take the
plunge to reach out for them and not sit back and wait for them to come to me.

In closing, I feel honored to represent this fine magazine.

Love Always, your 2011 Miss Rising Star Cover Girl,

Josalynn Andrea Oliveira