Miss Arkansas

Ashton Schmidt

What is the craziest thing you have ever done?
This February I participated in the Polar Bear Plunge for Special Olympics. I helped raise over $7,000 to benefit our local Special Olympics. I dressed up as one of the hillybilly "Darlins" from "The Andy Griffith Show" and rode in on a 1950 model truck. After turning in my money, I had to plunge into the freezing water of the White River. It was so cold but was for a great cause. As our t-shirts said, we were "Freezin' for a Reason."

Please list any Honors/Awards you have received in the past 2 years.
Honor Roll
Who's Who
Arkansas Girl's State Delegate
Quality of Life Award from Miss Teen Arkansas - America
Photogenic Award from Miss Arkansas Teen USA
Dillard's 2004 D-Girl Model
High School Dance Team
Youth representative on the March of Dimes Walk America steering committee

List any other Achievements/Accomplishments
I have been the featured speaker at D.A.R.E. graduations.
I am a spokesperson for the school violence awareness program called Hands and Words are not for Hurting. I have promoted this program for the last 4 years.

Please list any other jobs and/or unique occupations you have held in the past.
I taught gymnastic classes at our local gymnastics center.
I waited tables at a catfish restaurant.
I watch and care for a five-year-old boy named Jake.
I modeled swimsuits in the middle of a large mall.

What are your strongest talents?
My piano and dance ability as well as my dedication to making a difference in the lives of others through my volunteer work.

Name one person, family, friend, celebrity, who has had the most influence on your life.
My mother. My mother is such a strong, loving and caring person. She sacrifices in so many ways for our family, church, community, and her clients. She shows me that with hard work and dedication you can do whatever you set your mind to. Without her love, support and influence I would not be where I am today.

Describe how you envision yourself in five years?
I envision myself being a college graduate, working as a model or on television and competing for a Miss USA title.

What else do you want the judges to know about you?
That I am a very determined person; I am determined to do my best in everything I do. I am a person who sets goals for herself and works with great dedication and determination to achieve them.

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