By Mia Daley
When I first put on the Miss Rhode Island crown, I knew this year would be busy. What I didn’t realize was just how many incredible moments would fit into just a few months.
One week I’m visiting elementary schools, talking with students about mental health through my Community Service Initiative, Mind in Motion, and leading movement activities that help them recognize and regulate their emotions. The next, I’m standing on stage in rehearsals for Escape to Margaritaville, balancing eight-show weeks with appearances across Rhode Island. Somehow, in between, I’m squeezing in vocal lessons, sponsor appointments, content creation, and trying to keep up with college life.
One of my favorite experiences so far was traveling to Philadelphia for the America250 celebrations with titleholders from across the country. Whether we were preparing for the Living Liberty Bell formation, attending events together, or simply catching up, it reminded me how special this sisterhood really is. It was one of those trips where every day was completely different, but every moment felt memorable.
People often ask what being Miss Rhode Island is really like. The truth is, it’s a lot less glamorous than social media makes it seem. There are early mornings, long drives, garment bags in the backseat of my car, changing outfits and eating dinner whenever I can find five free minutes. But there are also little girls who run up for hugs, parents who share stories about how a school visit made an impact, and opportunities to use this title to start conversations that truly matter.
Outside of appearances, I’m a musical theater student at Salve Regina University, so performing has always been a huge part of who I am. Right now, I’m spending my summer performing in Escape to Margaritaville at the New Bedford Festival Theatre while also preparing for Miss America. It’s definitely a balancing act, but I wouldn’t trade it for anything.
Thank you for following along on this incredible journey. I can’t wait to share it with you, one story at a time!
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Photo by Daniel Gagnon
This is her first guest blog for Section 36 Forevers.
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