New reign begins on campus
The dazzling lights sparkled off senior Robyn Barrera’s dress, she smiled ear to ear as she was crowned Miss Texas A&M University- Kingsville(TAMUK) 2024. Barrera proudly accepted the responsibilities the title entails and mentioned how excited she was for the role.
“It feels amazing. I am so glad to have this opportunity to represent our beautiful campus,” Barrera said.
Throughout the duration of two months, six TAMUK women prepared for the annual scholarship pageant held on April 20.
During this time, they practiced their speeches, walks and built strong friendships/connections with each other.
The contestants are initially judged through a series of interviews before the pageant takes place, but the competition doesn’t end there.
The scholarship pageant continued as the contestants delivered a speech explaining which alumnus is an example of strong Javelina spirit and tradition followed by an evening wear competition.
Afterwards, the judges select three contestants to advance to the next portion of the pageant.
“I think each and every one of these girls are absolutely phenomenal. They have put in so much work through the past two months…and I could honestly see any of them winning it all,” Miss TAMUK 2023 Talia Hernandez said.
The curtain opened and revealed all six contestants.
As the crowd’s anticipation to know Miss TAMUK 2024 grew, host, Nicole Morris announced the three finalist who would continue in the pageant.
Barrera, Adrianna Salinas and Amberly Zaragoza were announced as the top three.
The finalists were asked an additional question on what advice they would provide a student that is considering a future in the workforce rather than attending college. After each contestant gave their response all six candidates were called to the stage. Morris announced Miss Congeniality as Vielka Rivera and Zaragoza as Miss Photogenic. Salinas earned Second Runner up and Zaragoza was announced as First Runner up. Hernandez approached Barrera with some advice.
“Enjoy every event, be present in every moment, make those connections and to really feel that you are such a big part of the community. [As Miss TAMUK] you have a platform to make changes for the students, be a lending ear, shoulder to cry on or whatever students need. [Miss TAMUK] should take this reign with as much humility as [Miss TAMUK] can,” Hernandez said.
Hernandez completed her reign in her final walk that included a pre-recorded audio track that echoed throughout Jones Auditorium.
“Thank you Javelina Nation not only for the past year, but for the past seven years- it’s been amazing,” Hernandez said.
After the pageant Zaragoza reflected on her favorite part of the experience, she mentioned that it was meeting/making memories with the other contestants. Zaragoza also wished Barrera the best of luck and a reign full of blessings.