Miss Teen USA 2011: Paradise Island, Bahamas

Thank you Robin & Abbey!

I cannot believe that my journey to Miss Teen USA started almost nine months ago! It has truly been a whirlwind adventure from the night I was crowned Miss Missouri Teen USA 2011, and has continued to change me for the better. I feel so blessed and honored to have represented Missouri in the Bahamas at the fabulous Atlantis Resort. Now let’s relive it!!!

My family and I arrived at the Atlantis two days before official check in to relax and enjoy Paradise Island.  Minutes after departing the plane, my family and I were treated to royal transportation (a limo!!), riding along the clear waters of the beautiful Bahamas all the way to the hotel. I cannot express how amazing the Atlantis is. First of all, you should know I am shark NERD. I consider Shark week (which is currently THIS WEEK) a holiday. Anyways, I will go ahead and say the HUGE slide through the shark tank was one of the highlights of my trip.

Wednesday night, contestants & family gathered at the welcome dinner to celebrate the beginning of a great week. After the welcome dinner, we headed to Club Crush to let loose and dance before competition! Thursday morning, the 2011 Miss Teen USA contestants received a presentation by dermatologistDr. Cheryl Karcher Dr. Cheryl Karcher.Dr. Cheryl Karcher  That afternoon, a few other contestants and myself enjoyed the giant “Climbers Rush” rock wall. I felt pretty impressed with myself after completing both the little wall and the big wall too :).

After a day of fun, it was rehearsal time for the next few days! Representing Missouri Friday night in the presentation show was a blast. Saturday morning I had my personality interview with the judging panel, which was too much fun. Seriously, I don’t think I will ever go through another interview process as fun as my Miss Teen USA interview!

Saturday night I was blessed to advance into the top 15, top 5, and place as fourth runner-up to Miss Teen USA 2011, Danielle Doty—congratulations to Danielle, who I’m sure will have a great year! Competing for the title of Miss Teen USA 2011 was an unforgettable experience—one in which I have grown and learned so much. Thank you to those who have been there to support and encourage me throughout this amazing process. I couldn’t have done it without you!

Thank you to the Vanbros team, who has been a dream to work with. Thank you also to the amazing sponsors who make it possible for the Vanbros girls to be their best self during their reign and at Miss USA and Miss Teen USA.

Myself with Sammy & Jordynn

To the Mueller, Martin, Peterson, Meier & Osseck families: I simply love you! Thank you Sammy, Jordynn and Mrs. Martin for being there!

Last but not least, thank you mom, dad & Taylor. It would be impossible for me to have accomplished what I have without you. I love you.

Thanks Coach Ski & the Muellers
for the beautiful flowers!!!

I am also SO EXCITED to announce there will be a Bahamas trip PART 2 happening this August at the Atlantis…check back to find out what I’ll be up to :).

XoXo,
Sydnee