Graves County High School senior Becca Green competed in the Miss Teen Pageant in Lexington this past weekend and won first place in her division, earning a title that advances her to the Miss Teen Nationals in Orlando, Fla., Dec. 9-13.

Before making it to the state level of the competition, Green first had to get past a preliminary round. All girls from the different areas of Kentucky were combined and more than 150, ranging from ages 7-19, participated in the statewide event. Green competed with more than 50 girls in her age group.

Each contestant was interviewed for three minutes and was asked questions that helped the judges determine what kind of personality each has. Along with the interview, the pageant participants were asked for the casual wear portion of the contest to wear something that reflects who they are.

Green commented on these parts of the competition saying, "They weren't so much worried about what you wore or how you looked. They just wanted to see that you had a bright personality and that you were just a kind person, that you weren't in it to be pretty but that you were there to make a difference and have fun. They wanted girls to be their true selves"

By finishing first, she was awarded the title of Miss Teen Kentucky 2015, a tiara, sash, and trophy. The top ten girls who placed in Lexington were awarded their sponsorship fee for nationals paid. Since Green won, her hotel and airfare also were paid.

Green will spend five days in Orlando at the national competition. It will be similar to her state experience, except that she will compete for scholarships with girls from around the country.

She went on to say, "It was a whirlwind and I didn't expect at all to make first. It was really shocking but I'm really happy to be a part of it. I'm so excited for nationals!"

(photo by Katie Meade, Graves High Eagle's Eye)