Miss Missouri

Sarah French

What is your hometown like?
Columbia, the center of Missouri, in the center of America, has consistently been ranked by Money magazine as one of the nation's top places to live because of its excellent quality of life. Columbia is home to three major colleges -- Columbia College, Stephens College and the University of Missouri-Columbia, which is ranked as the top journalism school in the nation.

What were you like when you were a child?
I was creative and had an imagination that was endless. I would watch Disney movies, dress up as the main character and act out the entire film.

Who is the most influential person in your life?
My 98-year-old great-grandmother, Granny Louie, is the most influential person in my life. Through her life experiences, Granny Louie has shared her humor, wisdom and zest for life with her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

What is one thing about you that people you meet may not immediately realize?
I am a registered member with Cherokee Nation.

What was one defining moment in your life?
One defining moment in my life was being accepted into the Missouri School of Journalism, which ranks not only as the first journalism school in the world but also the best.

What was one defining moment in your life?
What a difference one person can make. When you recognize the diversity of the 52 contestants' platforms and consider the accomplishments of their efforts, you realize the amazing contribution all of the young women have made nationwide.

What was one defining moment in your life?
My first and foremost goal is to advance the Miss America Organization. Miss America should be a guest emcee for shows like So You Think You Can Dance or LIVE With Regis & Kelly. She should interview celebrities during red carpet events and appear in the Top 10 Super Bowl commercials. When you talk about exposure and sponsorships, I think big!