THE COMPETITION EXPERIENCE!
What do the judges look for
The categories and percentage below are used at the local level (ie. Miss Winona) and the state level (Miss Minnesota) for both the Miss and Teen age divisions. The phases and percentages are subject to change at the National level. Importantly, the value of a contestants wardrobe and her physical shape and size are not considered at any time during the competition – This competition is designed to find the most qualified representative for her community based on community service initiative, dedication to her craft and skills, intelligence, and ability to relate to members of the public from any walk of life.
PRIVATE INTERVIEW: Contestants begin with a 30 second opening statement, introducing their Community Service Initiative to the judges. This is followed by a nine minute Q&A and an optional 30 second closing statement. The discussion with the judges ranges in topic from the Community Service Initiative, to education goals, to current events.
What is judged:
What is judged:
- Ability to fulfill the qualifications, responsibilities, duties, and term of the titleholder
- Commitment to her community service initiative
- Ability to express beliefs in an authentic and relatable manner
- Sense of accomplishments and goals
- Spontaneity, intelligence, sense of humor, charm and charisma.
- Authenticity and ability to answer questions in a conversational and unrehearsed manner
- Ability to serve as a representative of her generation
ON STAGE CONVERSATION: This is a single question asked to each contestant pertaining to the Community Service Initiative. It is an opportunity to underscore the importance of, and passion for, their chosen community service initiative.
What is judged:
What is judged:
- Commitment to the ‘Service’ point of the crown
- Unique perspective on community service and it’s local impact
- Desire to create interest in your community service initiative
- Intelligence, personality, charisma, and aptitude for the titleholder’s opportunity
- Sense of composure in presenting ideas on stage
- Interactivity with the panelists and the audience.
HEALTH & FITNESS*: Contestants showcase their commitment to health and fitness initiatives. A contestant's discipline and commitment to being physically healthy is a key to success in all areas of life. The routines are of equal length and choreographed to highlight their personal fitness.
What is judged:
What is judged:
- Comfort and confidence level on stage
- Overall impression of health and fitness commitment
- Spontaneity and flow of presentation
- Preparedness to serve as a health and fitness ambassador
TALENT*: Contestants’ presentations may include singing, dancing, baton twirling, acting, instrumental performance and more. Additionally, contestants who may not have a traditional stage talent are encouraged to present a “HERstory” piece – a personal story which can move, inspire, or entertain.
What is judged:
What is judged:
- Performance or storytelling skills
- Ability to capture the attention of an audience while performing on stage.
- Interpretive ability and entertainment value
- Stage presence, on-stage personality and personal connection to her story.
EVENING GOWN: This is an opportunity for the contestant to showcase the sense of style they would bring to the role while attending galas, fundraisers, award shows, and other formal events. Scoring is not based on the actual or perceived cost of the delegates’ wardrobe.
What is judged:
What is judged:
- Ability to capture attention on stage
- Comfort, confidence, and composure
