All contestants in the Miss America Organization are required to submit their Service Initiative Essay and Interview Fact Sheet.  This information is given to the judges two weeks prior to competition.  Refer to the Contestant’s Calendar for paperwork deadlines and to the links below for complete formatting.  All paperwork should be printed on plain white copy paper.  This will be the judges’ first impression of you. Paperwork that is not submitted on time will not be included in the judges’ books but will be given to them on the day of the pageant.  Electronic versions of your paperwork may not be edited after submission.

Choosing Your Service Initiative (SI)
In the Miss America Organization, each contestant is required to have a personal platform or what is now called your Service Initiative.  If you have never competed in MAO, here are some things to think about as you make your decision about choosing your SI.  

• How can I make a difference in my community?
• What volunteer work or community service have I already been personally involved with?  
• Is this an issue of concern to the American people? 
• Is there an issue that I have a personal connection to?
• Is this platform issue one that is supported by a legitimate 501C3 organization at the local, state, and national levels?  
• Is It of interest to corporations, the news media, and other important audiences?  

The SI essay is a one page essay.  It is suggested that you begin with a brief explanation of your topic and why you selected it, and discuss activities you have been involved with or what is currently happening related to your SI in your community. You should also include what you would like to accomplish should you be selected as our winner.  Be honest with your statements and realistic with your goals and your year of service.  At the local level, the judges want to see that you have a personal commitment to this issue.  It should be clear that you have researched, thought about, and understand your SI and its impact at the local and state level.  If you become Miss Washtenaw County, the issue that you have selected will become your Service Initiative for the Miss Michigan Pageant.  At that point the Miss Washtenaw County Scholarship Program will provide you with additional information, resources, and assistance to support your involvement in this issue.  

It is suggested that you use a copy of your paperwork for your mock interview.  After your interview you can use the judges' critiques to make any final changes.

Interview Fact Sheet Instructions
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Service Initiative (SI) Essay Instructions