From Greek organizations to social clubs on campus, most organizations are having a pageant for young men and women on campus. Students from freshmen to seniors have been signing up, spending money, and investing their time. . .Is it worth it? Is there behind the scenes action that the student body does not, see? Are these pageants being run fairly? The student body is curious to know, especially with interest from some who want to one day be in a pageant. Some students feel that most of these pageants are biased and the pageant itself becomes political and a popularity contest.
Jeremiah Tyrece, a student who participated in the Miss Jabberwock and Mister Debonair pageant, spoke about his experiences. “It was my first time being in a pageant and my experience was very great because everyone involved made it great! It was a way for me to truly show myself to everyone at the LU.” Tyrece explained that there was no bad energy at the pageant, and he did not feel any ill ways about the process. “I do not think the judges were biased. It was genuine, and they chose who they believed would fulfill that role. Pageants are not supposed to be a negative experience, it is supposed to be enjoyable and something you will tell your kids down the line.”
Tyrece wanted to encourage students to go out and try these pageants, even if they’re nervous. As for concerns about fairness, according to Tyrece, “the pageant was not rigged.” Winning and losing will always be the result of a pageant. Whether they win or lose, it is just an accomplishment to even participate. “All happy feelings after the pageant and yes, I wanted to win but my pageant brother who did win, definitely deserved it. I just loved being able to participate in the pageant.”
Pageants are not for the weak, however; participants must step out of their comfort zones and be ready to tackle their fears. With these organizations, the people there are there to help participants and pour all the information that they know into them. They have past kings and queens come, helping and guiding students to be the best and be prepared for the big day. The brothers of Phi Beta Sigma, Kappa Alpha Psi, Alpha Phi Alpha, and other student organizations are looking for students who can represent their organization to the best of their abilities. If students are ready to show this campus what you have and want to be the face of one of the prestigious ones on campus, then they should not be afraid and come with their A game.
Caleb Rockins
Staff Writer
Caleb Rockins is a senior business management major
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