Erika Harold may be Miss America 2003, but she is also a college-age woman headed for Harvard Law School — and a figure with whom University students can identify.
The Illinois native was the victim of sexual and racial harassment in ninth grade, which forced her to change high schools, she said. The experience inspired this platform choice in her bid for the crown.
"I started participating in pageants as a sophomore in college to earn money for school and to serve as an activist," Harold said.
For the past five months she has been traveling the country, giving interviews, and participating in a wide variety of events. "It's a seven day a week job," she said.
"I have gone to fun, charitable events like the Super Bowl as well as speaking to young people about embracing diversity."
When asked about the role of Miss America in today's society, Harold said that the "role is defined solely by the young woman who serves." For her, wearing the crown is about being a leader and an activist.
Beyond the world of pageantry, Harold is a serious student. A Phi Beta Kappa at the University of Illinois, she has been accepted to Harvard Law School, where she hopes to start studying public interest law in 2004.
"I have had the unparalleled opportunity to find out what the needs of society are," Harold said of her preparation for law school. She also thinks that the many interviews she has given will help her in Harvard's Socratic method style classes.
Harold can also easily switch from her role as serious national advocate to that of a typical twenty-something, trading fashion and beauty tips she has learned on the road.
"Always drink plenty of water when traveling on planes,' she said.
On the road, she tries to keep fit by using the hotel gyms or if they don't have one, "just dancing around the hotel room."
This Miss America also makes sure not to forget her family and friends when traveling around the country.
"I try to include them in the different opportunities that have been afforded to me,' she said.
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