Beyond Beauty She gazed towards the crowd and gave the sweetest smile...

She dazzled and walked with pride and honour as she was being called on the stage. The audience roared at her presence every time she appears... She didnt just radiate the outward glory she possessed; she stood out because of her beauty within! The 19 year old lady, Adelma Krissel Benicta has been chosen to represent the College of Nursing in the Miss Nightingale 2013. With nine other candidates, Adelma showed her boldness and character to win the audience and judges heart! She bagged almost all of the minor awards, which goes to show how much wit and talent she possessed. She was crowned as the First Runner-Up, while Ms. CBAA and Mr. CHS were Mr. And Ms. UNP 2013. We were able to sit down with her and ask her a few questions which she gladly answered...

What persuaded you to join the pageant? At first, I felt scared when they told me I was going to represent our college for Ms. UNP. I was doubtful if I can carry all the pressure and bear all expectations from everyone. But the fact that the crown is finally back to its rightful owner after fourteen years and know that my best friend was behind all of it, it got me motivated to embark on this journey. And though my father was against it and lots of criticism I received, I decided to make it as my driving force.

What were your preparations? Any rituals before the contest started? I am thankful for everyone who helped me to become physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually prepared for this competition. There were tiring sets of practices where Id be wearing heels all day, and though I wanted to have a good rest after that I still have to prepare myself for another brainstorming session. Whenever I felt weak, I just prayed and asked for Gods continuous guidance. As what Ive always been told, the journey to the crown is not easy, so I made no complaints for I knew those were all parts of it.

How does it feel to represent the college and crowned as Ms. UNP first runner up? I feel privileged and honored to represent our college, that alone manifested they have faith in what I can do. I know not everyone is given the chance to join a once in a lifetime opportunity. It was a challenge for me because CN has always been a home of beauty titles. Though I wasnt able to notch the crown, still Im happy with what Ive achieved and glad that I have brought something that our college could be proud of. Overall, it felt great and unrivalled.

What was the highlight of the night for you? It was the time when I was announced as Ms. UNP 1st runner up. That moment, I felt like the stage was mine and I couldnt help myself but put on my best smile. I told myself, this is it, this is the fruit of all my sacrifices and the efforts and support of those who believed in me.

Being candidate #1, you were the first in everything. What did you do to rise up the bar and be memorable all throughout? It was always a tough thing to be number one. When you get out of the stage, people would always look at you as the standard in everything. The only two things I had on the core were faith in God and faith in myself. The support I have received from my CN family made me exude my deepest confidence. I mastered all the blockings, flashed my sweetest smile, carried the costumes with all my grace, walked with poise and believed that that was my moment to showcase myself with the rest of the world. I think the key to be memorable to people all throughout the pageant was to show them that you are enjoying the experience.

Behind those compelling eyes and alluring smile of yours, who were you before and who are you now? The fact is, Id always be the Adelma people know. The trademark I have before joining the pageant would always be the trademark that Id carry wherever I go and whatever I do. However, the pageant really made a profound impact in my life because for now, I could say that I am into a subtle process of being molded and changed. When I pass by people, a lot would recognize me and it is indeed overwhelming. And right now, I really could feel that this is not just a mere title, but a challenge to substantiate the true spirit of beauty with a purpose.

Message to your supporters. To my CN family, a simple thank you hardly seems adequate. Im afraid there just arent the right words to show my appreciation for all of you on a paper. To the faculty and staff, no words can express how deeply grateful I am for all the support you all have given me. My heart is overflowing with love for each and every one of you. You have immensely helped me carry myself with poise through your unwavering cheers and support. I wouldnt have done all of this without all of you. To Maam Dean, you have been our constant source of inspiration and encouragement and I am extremely grateful for believing in my capabilities, it has indeed given me the drive to push myself beyond my limits. To Sir Greg and Sir Allen, you have been my backbone throughout this journey. I truly appreciate all your efforts and sacrifices. This dream of mine would have remained a dream had it not been for you who believed in me. You have etched an invaluable learning that I believe I can carry wherever I may go, and that is to tackle any task with enthusiasm and always be the best that I can be.

To my supportive advisers, Maam Claudine, Maam Sheila (NSO) and Sir Budz (Nightingale Pub), who played important roles along this venture, I am heartily grateful for providing me the things I need and for the words of encouragement at times when it seemed impossible to continue. To my BSN Angelica family, NSO, NTDP, Nightingale Pub, friends and everyone, God knows who you are, I am beyond grateful for all the things youve done for me. You guys are the best cheerleaders. Thank you for your endless motivations and believing in my potentials, you have indeed propelled me to where I stand today. To the Ginger Team (Sir Greg, Sir Allen, Kuya Alfred, Ate Tin, Richmond, Alyssa, Chrissy, Kuya Mondang), who had always been there well springing laughter, comfort and for standing by me all throughout the pageant. Thank you for everything! To my family, who unendingly loves, guides and supports me in all my endeavors, thank you so much. To my titas, titos and cousins, you have motivated and inspired me to do the best of my ability. To my father, who at first was against it, thank you for considering and supporting me all the way, I hope Ive made you proud. And most importantly, to God Almighty, who has been my source of refuge and strength throughout this journey. Without His guidance and divine intervention, none of this would have been possible and I wouldnt be where I am today. Thank You God and all these I heartily offer to You.