JDCHS student advancing in scholarship pageant

Friday, Oct. 07, 2016

DRAPER — Juan Diego Catholic High School senior Courtney Talbot has not only set herself apart, but she has been chosen to compete at the state level for the Distinguished Young Woman Scholarship Pageant. 

The program, available to high school girls, is not a typical beauty pageant. The program takes place in all 50 states and does not charge an entry fee. While some participants can win college scholarship money, every participant walks away with life skills training. 

“I was introduced to this program by the owner of my dance studio; her daughter had participated in the program as well,” Courtney said. “She thought it was a great program. In fact, the state program is actually held at Juan Diego, so my counselor encouraged me to do it as well.”

In the pageant, girls are evaluated on an interview, talent, fitness and scholastics. Self-expression is an off-stage question. Monetary awards are given in each category; there is also an overall award. 

So far, Courtney has won $1,200 at the local level.

As a student, Courtney is caring, confident, and courageous, said Lena Puro, school counselor.

“Courtney is also willing to step outside of the standard senior box to explore interesting and unique fields of study,” Puro said. “I love how earnest and passionate about service Courtney is, and have enjoyed learning about her experiences in Brazil. Her dedication to student leadership is contagious, and she is respected by both faculty and students alike. It is truly an honor to know and to be able to work with Courtney – she exemplifies everything of excellent character and high moral values.”

When Courtney was in the eighth grade, she and her family visited Brazil. Two of  those days were spent with an organization that provides an after-school program for the children of the favelas, which had a huge impact on Courtney, she said in her Student Survey, “because it showed me how optimistic and joyful people can be even when they are in such desolate living conditions. The children were always smiling and very eager to meet us and learn about us despite the language barrier and really inspired me to have a more positive and curious attitude so I can really appreciate what I have and use my resources to help others.”

The Distinguished Young Woman Scholarship Pageant includes a series of life skills workshops. Participants learn skills on interviewing, public speaking, and self-confidence building to help girls better prepare for life after high school. 

Courtney will compete with three other girls at the state level on Oct. 21-22. She has been preparing by working on her interviewing and self-expression skills, she said. “The most challenging part of this process for me has been stepping out of my comfort zone. I have never done anything like this before. The life skills and the people I have met are the best part of the experience. I learned a lot through this process and I would really encourage other girls to do it.”

If Courtney wins at the state level, she will compete in the national finals in June.