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"My parents were completely shocked, and even my brother expressed his concern. I was so embarrassed at first that I was afraid to even tell my friends. I'm not a die- hard feminist, but I certainly believe in many feminist points of view. "Everyone thinks these beauty pageants exploit women," but Aronoff found out otherwise. Her research concluded that over the past five years, those making the final cut were not the prettiest or the tallest, nor the ones with the best fig- ures. They were the women with the most personality, those who had accomplished the most in their lives. Aronoff found the pageant qualifi- cations to be strict. Potential contes- tants must be in college or college- educated. The questions she was asked during her interview also sur- prised her: The pageant officials were more concerned about Aronoff's knowledge of current events, her charitable involvements and her edu- cation than they were with her physi- cal "stars." Lana — Cruising The Indian Ocean Aronoff viewed past videos of pageants and saw first-hand that the contestants were judged on their per- sonality first and looks second. Pageant directors explained that par- ticipants can earn college scholar- ships, gain experience and exposure in the entertainment industry, and develop confidence and self-awareness while making friends from around the state. While the thought of the bathing suit competition makes Aronoff squirm, she has accepted the fact that it is a part of the contest. "Ratings," she grumbles. Contestants must be between the age 18 and 26. Some women enter the contest year after year. In fact, last year's Miss Michigan USA had been a contestant for the past six years. At 24, Aronoff can enter the con- test two more times if she is unsuc- cessful this year. The winner will go on to compete in the National Miss USA pageant. This is the first year that the Miss Michigan USA pageant will be tele- vised. The contest will take place from Wednesday, May 19, through Saturday May 22, and televised locally on UPN 50 on Sunday, May 23. The pageant is at the Soaring Eagle Casino in Mt. Pleasant, hosted by actor Alan Thicke. Aronoff will participate in the pre- liminary and final competitions. All contestants must have a sponsor to help cover the costs of the pageant, including a four-night stay at the Soaring Eagle. Aronoff's sponsor is her family's art gallery. Contestants must also pay separately for their swimsuit and gown. "I am excited to have this opportu- nity," says Aronoff. "It has been a great learning experience for me. I've been preparing for my interview ques- tions by evaluating what is important to me, and thinking about my per- sonal values. "I've learned that the best way to succeed is to say what I think, and to be myself." El]