Another article of mine was selected for the school’s news blog – woohoo!

I should really start diversifying my submissions moving forward, but I can’t say I don’t enjoy seeing my name posted as a contributing writer for Full Sail University. It’s a pretty big ego boost!

Since I cannot post a direct link, here is a copy/paste of the article:

Online Student Competes in Miss Black Collegiate USA Scholarship Pageant

This weekend, a student from the EBBS program is representing Full Sail University at the Miss Black Collegiate USA [MBCUSA] Scholarship Pageant.

LaShantell Williams, 22, will compete for a $40,000 grand prize to use toward her education. The winner of the pageant will make appearances on college campuses and will also represent the MBCUSA at events and charities. The competition takes place October 26-28 in Atlanta, Georgia.

Williams said she found out about the pageant in March and was pleased to learn that the pageant’s focus is on education, rather than physical beauty. To apply, Williams submitted two essays, two formal references, a photo, and a transcript of her academic performance at Full Sail University.

“The pageant is centered on education,” noted Williams. “One thing that got me into the pageant was my grades.”

Unlike the annual Miss America Pageant, the MBCUSA scholarship pageant does not feature a swimsuit contest, but rather focuses on each candidate’s performance in a private interview, talent contest and evening wear walk, as well as their track record of civic involvement.

In addition to the grand prize and the title of Miss Black Collegiate USA, there are several smaller awards that contestants can earn for their abilities and dedication in the areas of dance, athletics, debate and community service.

“I plan to represent Full Sail by sharing with the judges the knowledge that I have gotten from my education thus far,” said Williams. “I also plan to share my academic achievements and ensure a level of professionalism that I’ve earned as a student as a result of the GPS scoring program.”

Williams said her long-term goals include continuing her education at Full Sail and attaining a master’s degree in New Media Journalism and eventually owning an entertainment management company.

You can watch a brief video that introduces you to Williams and her career aspirations by clicking here. For more about the MBCUSA, check out the website, here.

Best of luck to LaShantell as she competes this weekend!

– Victoria Webster-Perez