By Angelique Cauterucci
I first experienced the magic of the Miss America Organization at 11 years old. I was sitting in the audience, watching Miss New Jersey 2017 (Kaitlyn Schoeffel) shine on the national stage, ultimately placing second runner-up. Something in that moment sparked a fire in me. I leaned over and whispered to my aunt, “I want to be just like her one day.” I didn’t know how or when, but I knew that someday, somehow, I’d find myself chasing that same dream.
Two years later, at 13, my mom and aunt surprised me by signing me up for my first pageant. I was shy. Unsure of myself. I didn’t think I belonged, and I certainly didn’t think I was “good enough” to wear a crown. But something shifted that year. As I navigated the pageant experience, I discovered confidence. I discovered purpose. I found a community that celebrated strength, service, and authenticity. And I fell completely in love with the Miss America Opportunity.
It was my aunt who encouraged me to be vulnerable. One day, she gently said, “Why don’t you talk about your body image struggles?” That single question changed everything. It gave me the courage to open up about something I had hidden for years. My battle with body dysmorphia and suffering with an eating disorder. And in that moment, I found my voice. That voice turned into a mission.
I began speaking to students in schools, studios, and teams. I created my nonprofit, You Define Beauty, to help youth see their value beyond appearance. I handed out affirmation cards, launched a podcast, and built a platform where every young person could feel seen, heard, and empowered. To date, I’ve reached over 80,000 individuals. And I’m just getting started.
Two years ago, after I stepped off the Miss New Jersey’s Teen stage, my aunt was waiting for me. She wrapped me in a hug and whispered, “You’ll get it next year. You’re not just competing for you, you’re competing for me, and for every student you’ve already touched.” That was the last time I saw her. And that moment has stayed with me ever since.
Now, in my fifth year competing within the Miss America Opportunity, this isn’t just a dream anymore, it’s a mission. A deeply personal one. I’ve placed in the top 5 for the last three years and I am so excited to see what happens in two weeks. I’ll walk onto the Miss New Jersey’s Teen stage once again. Not just as the girl who whispered a dream at 11 years old but as a young woman with a purpose. I’m showing up for every student who’s ever felt less than. For everyone who’s struggled in silence. And for my aunt, who believed in me long before I ever believed in myself.
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