Once a year, some of the most beautiful and talented women across the state gather in West Monroe to compete for the title of Miss Louisiana. Since the 1970s, the university has sent a representative as Miss Southeastern Louisiana University, and this year Chelsey Blank, a junior accounting major, has been selected.

Since being crowned in November, Blank has been preparing in multiple aspects such as staying up to date with current events, practicing her tap dance, and applying rhinestones to her costumes.

With changes to the pageant last year, Blank has been working especially hard to prepare for the new portion of competition.

“The social impact statement portion is now in place of the swimsuit competition,” explained Blank. “Since this is a new section of the competition, I am going to put together what I think is best for the 10 seconds allowed.”

After dancing for almost her whole life, Blank says she is particularly looking forward to the talent portion.

“However, if I were to pick something that is not so natural for me, I’d have to say interview,” confessed Blank. “I love having conversations and getting to know people.”

As excited as Blank has been, she has struggled balancing school, duties and preparations.

“The most challenging part would have to be being a full-time student,” noted Blank. “Now that school is over, I have a lot more time to focus on preparations. During the semester was difficult but not impossible. I managed to keep my 4.0 GPA, join more organizations, and watch new traditions begin – all while preparing for the Miss Louisiana contest and appearing at over thirty events this past spring semester.”

Although it was difficult, the challenge proved to be the most satisfactory part of the experience so far.

“I love being busy, and succeeding at being busy is all the more rewarding,” said Blank. “I love my school, and I couldn’t be more proud to represent it every day as Miss Southeastern.”

In the face of her apprehensions, Blank shares her secret to remaining calm.

“I do have confidence in myself, but I’m worried there may be times that I’m not sure what to do or where to go,” shared Blank. “However, I’m a ‘go-with-the-flow’ kind of girl, so I usually make things work as much as possible. Positivity is key in uncertain situations.”

According to Blank, as her reign passes, she is looking forward to keeping the connections she has made.

“Without these people – the candidates, the Special Olympics volunteers, the school faculty and staff, et cetera – none of it would be possible,” said Blank. “This experience has been so wonderful, and I will forever be grateful that I’m a candidate to potentially be the next Miss Louisiana.”

Throughout her journey, Blank has felt support from those around her.

She expressed her gratefulness to her mother in particular.

“I owe a lot of the credit to my mom for always making sure I’m on top of my game,” stated Blank. “My family and friends have been really supportive as well. All in all, I feel well prepared, and I cannot wait for this experience.”

The pageant will take place at the Monroe Civic Center in the W.L. “Jack” Howard Theatre June 20-22. Tickets go on sale June 1 and can be purchased online through Ticketmaster. The competition can also be viewed on local channels across the state. Check your local listings.