By: Hilda Yeung

Miss America, Madison Marsh, poses in her evening gown. (Carlos Velez Studio/Miss America)

Many are taught to believe that pursuing a career path will limit you from achieving goals outside of that field. A second lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force and a Harvard Master’s student in public policy, Madison Marsh was a the ultimate winner of the 2024 Miss America, representing the state of Colorado. She was the first full-time Air Force officer to receive the national title, showing the world her capabilities and what can be achieved when passion and determination is to your advantage. The contestants had to showcase their skills with the many challenges, such as the fitness showcase in which they walked a runway wearing heels that challenge each individual’s balance and agility. The Q&A sessions also tested how each would approach a real-world situation with questions that provided challenges with drug use in America, climate change, and racism. Marsh answered each question with confidence using her personal challenges as examples to topics of overcoming hardships, as well as her military achievements showing how being a leader is crucial in success. She was able to teach young audiences on the importance of striving towards your goals and portray an inspiring role model to those who face their own challenges. Thus, Marsh was able to gain a personal achievement by winning the title as well as providing a positive role model to those aspiring to follow her.

Works Cited

Rees, Alex. “U.S. Air Force Officer Crowned as 2024 Miss America.” CTVNews, 15 Jan. 2024, http://www.ctvnews.ca/lifestyle/u-s-air-force-officer-crowned-as-2024-miss-america-1.6726073.