I was hoping we could put two new faces (on the board). To end up in the majority, that's great.

He is saying as little as he needs to be confirmed and hasn't made many mistakes that trouble a majority of senators whose votes he needs.

I want to encourage at least one more girl to compete because I know what I got out of the program. I won $60,000, and it's paid for my education, which lots of people aren't aware of. It's a way for women to fund their education. It's not just going out there in a swimsuit and waving at people. I really wanted to use myself as an example for what young women can accomplish.

Not anybody can just apply for it. It's a unique experience that I get to be a part of for a year.

It was difficult at times to balance my school life with my pageant life. At times all I wanted to do was be a 'normal' college student, but in the back of my mind, I knew the only reason why I was able to attend Syracuse was because of the scholarships I was earning through pageants.

I had a great time with dance. It kept me on track. I didn't have time to goof around.