For the third year, the Miss PA USA and Miss Teen PA USA pageants were held in Johnstown. Ultimately, Alexandra Jones was crowned Miss Pennsylvania Teen USA 2022 at Richland Performing Arts Center Grand Finale in Johnstown on Sunday, April 24, 2022. The spotlight wasn’t dimmed at all, however, on local high schooler Normandy Broaddus who made the semi-finals in her very first pageant. I was able to once again catch up with Normandy for a post-pageant perspective.

Dave: What was it like going to your first pageant? Were you nervous?

Normandy: For my first pageant, I was understandably nervous. However, I went into the pageant with an open mind, so I was extremely excited for what the weekend was going to bring.

Dave: What was the vibe? Was it chaotic, lots of energy, etc.?

Normandy: Preparing for the pageant weekend was most definitely chaotic! From packing, organizing, and even to the hair, skin, and nails appointments, the preparations were crazy. However, the moment I got to the location, all of my nerves calmed. All of the girls were happy and excited to be competing for the same thing.

Dave: What were the other contestants like? Were they nice, intense, focused?

Normandy: The girls were extremely kind and welcoming to me and all of the “first-year girls.” There is and will always be the couple of girls who are simply “in it to win it” with their eyes set on only the crown. However, I was able to connect with girls who were also in pageantry to meet new people and learn new things. I was even able to make lifelong friends to walk through pageantry with me.

Dave: Did you have help getting ready? Was your coach there?

Normandy: I had the best team to help me look my best. My mom, of course, helped with the organization and carpool from place to place – thanks, Mom. On top of that, I had the best beauty crew. I was able to get my hair and makeup done by professional artists on both days of the pageant to get me looking my best for the stage. Although neither my coach nor my family was allowed backstage, they were all there supporting from the crowd.

Dave: What did it feel like being on stage in front of all of those people?

Normandy: Since I was a competitive dancer my whole life, I love the stage. I love being in front of large groups of people and being able to showcase what I’ve worked so hard for. Being on the Miss Teen Pennsylvania USA stage was just like a dance competition. I was simply just showcasing a new talent.