There are a variety of different hobbies that people seem to take up... Luckily we can hear about them via social media platforms! From sports to crafting, to traveling the world, I honestly enjoy reading about the undertaking and accomplishments of others. My hobby, however, doesn't always seem to be met with positivity.

Oh yes, pageantry. Contestants have been met with so much negativity on a daily basis. I'm the type of person who loves adventure, and honest competition, so when I entered my first pageant, I was excited to share the news with my family and friends. However, some of my friends weren't as excited as I was.

The argument I've heard from most people against pageantry is that the contestants are "exploited' and "parade around in swimwear". Yes... We do wear swimsuits in SOME pageants ( not all pageants have a swimwear portion)... And I have no issue with this... and here's why.

I work extremely hard to maintain a healthy body. This includes eating clean and working out. When I reach a goal, whether it be running the extra mile, or lifting a heavier weight, I feel proud and want to share that accomplishment. Through lifestyle and fitness competition, I am able to do so. I do not feel exploited whatsoever. Thankfully I have my own brain which can decide whether it feels exploited or not.... And I don't need you to help me make that decision!

Many people who are against pageantry also claim that it is anti-feminist for the same reason. I am a feminist, and I use the term proudly in conversation. When outsiders say that I am not a feminist because I compete, I find a lot of trouble with their argument.

My definition of a feminist is someone who believes that a woman has the right to do whatever she chooses and that she should not be judged for her decisions... Especially if a man would be met with praise for making the same decision!

Do you think these men feel exploited? Why or why not?

These men made a decision to get on stage in not very much clothing in order to show off the work they've put into their bodies. Why is it still a bad thing for women to make the same choice?

If you say I'm not a feminist because I think women should be allowed to make a choice about what to wear or what to do with their own bodies... Congratulations! You are not a feminist! At least not in my book of feminism.

Now that we've gotten this out of the way, can I tell you all the things I love about my hobby and why, as a woman with a brain, I've made a conscious decision to continue to compete?

1. Friendships

In every pageant I've competed in, I've had the opportunity to meet other focused and like-minded women. Just like you build friendships through soccer and dance, you build life-long friendships in pageants.

2. To Practice Speaking

Pageantry is the perfect outlet to practice my interview skills... Which have helped me attain many jobs! As a teacher, it is so important that you can communicate with a myriad of different people. I'm so thankful that the interview portion of competition has given me an outlet to receive feedback on my interviewing skills.

3. To Wear Pretty Clothes

Yes, I'm a woman who expresses her femininity... Is that really such a bad thing?

4. To Promote my Platform of Equitable Funding for Schools Across New York

As a teacher, it is so important to me that all students receive the tools they need in order to succeed. I've seen first hand that some schools do not have the proper funding in order to hire enough qualified teachers, to buy updated textbooks, or to go on educational field trips. The ultimate goal for me would be that every school receives the same amount of funding so that all children know their education is important. When you have a shiny crown, people ask that you make an appearance at their events! Through these opportunities, I've gotten to share my message with so many people!

5. To Be a Role Model to my Students and Beyond

During my time as a queen, I've become a role model to many children. Through reading at schools, talking about the importance of education, and showing young women that they can be whatever they strive to be, I've connected with and have been able to encourage so many young people.

6. I Enjoy it. Shouldn't That be Enough for You?

Case closed.