Today we feature Jocelyn Reuben, a transfer student from Burlington Township majoring in Athletic Training with a minor in Spanish. Rowan Blog previously featured Jocelyn focusing on her involvement around campus and her academic experience. Now we feature Jocelyn as she discusses her recent selection as a State finalist for the 2021 Miss New Jersey pageant.
What made you interested in pageants? How did you get started?
“This is my first ever pageant. What made me do it … it sounds so funny saying it out loud but I just kept seeing these ads on my phone come up about these pageants and how they are looking for people to compete … It’s still a mystery to me today how these ads ended up on my feeds considering that I have never searched anything about pageants. The main reason on why I wanted to do this because I am always looking for ways to push myself out of my comfort zone, to expand my leadership skills, and to meet new people.”
What do you think your favorite part about competing in pageants will be?
“I think my favorite part of the pageant will be the interview because I simply love talking. Because of leadership roles I have held in high school and even at Rowan, my public speaking skills have flourished over time. I like to think of confidence as a muscle; the more you work at it … the better you are going to have it and the better you will be able to utilize it at any moment.”
Do you need a talent portion in your pageants? What does your talent portion include?
“Unfortunately, this one does not include a talent portion. If there was a talent portion I would probably perform a monologue because in my spare time I write my own pieces. Fun fact: the longest monologue I have ever written took about 10-12 minutes to perform.”
What is a misconception about competing in pageants?
“I would say that pageant girls are dumb or that the competition is all about physical appearances. In order to prepare for this pageant, I have been researching past contestants for all different types of pageants and based on what I have been studying from past winners — Miss Teen USA, state title winners, and even Miss Universe — when you look at these people’s credentials and accomplishments … these individuals are super intelligent, very philanthropic and truly inspiring.”
Do you have any advice for anyone who wants to compete in pageants or to try something new but is too scared to get out of their comfort zone?
“My advice has to be one of my favorite quotes. The quote is by Childish Gambino. He says, ‘If it makes you nervous, you are doing it right.’
“You know I figured out along the way that growth is uncomfortable and that is normal, and in order to grow you need to experience growing pains.”
How can Rowan students and fellow supporters follow your journey in the 2021 Miss New Jersey pageant in July?
Information is available on the website at https://missnewjerseyusa.com/pageant-information/
Like what you see?
Story by:
Natalie DePersia, junior public relations major
Photos by:
Stephanie Batista, junior music industry major
