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Alexandra Vorontsova, a student at the University of Delaware entered the pageant world at 19 years old in 2014.
She placed as first runner up in her second competition last year, but is only settling into her new duties.
"I realized the leadership opportunities that the pageant has to offer," said Vorontsova, who watched the drama of the Miss Universe competition unfold live from the event. "Everyone has their own story.”
Vorontsova is three weeks into cleaning up her diet, and choosing her evening gown and swim suit segments of the competition.
This is the first year that contestants will appear under new ownership since Donald Trump sold the pageant. Contestants do not yet know where the event will be held and exactly when.
“A lot of these girls can walk in these five-inch heels so I want to make sure it flows very well."
Vorontsova makes guest appearances in parades and at diplomatic events, all while studying for a degree in chemical engineering with a minor in math.
The Paramus native aims to squash a stereotype about the competitions notorious for the glitz and glam.
“A lot of students in pageants have intellectual pursuits," she said.
"Pageants can pick up a stigma that is not true. That’s why I’m wearing the sash right now - kids come up to me and I want to make a difference in their lives.”
Vorontsova focuses on Alzheimers and elderly adults by volunteering at local senior centers. Her sorority's philanthropy benefits seniors in the community.
And if she earns Miss USA? Vorontsova will put her degree on hold for a short time.
"This is time sensitive," she said. "I always try to do my best."
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