Miss Illinois
Jill Gulseth
Age: 21Height: 5' 9"
Hair Color: Brown
Eye Color: Blue
What is the craziest thing you have ever done?
The craziest thing I have ever done was allowing my cousin to talk me into riding an airboat through a swamp full of alligators. I was never happier to be back on dry ground in my life.
Please list any schools and universities (public/private/graduate/trade or technical) you have or are attending, as well as the area of study, graduation date and any degree or certification you received.
High School: Geneva High School; Year Completed: 2002
Trade School 1: Waubonsee Community College; Area of Study: Psychology and Elementary Education; Year Completed: 2003;
College: University of Iowa; Area of Study: Psychology and Elementary Education; Year Completed: 2008;
What charity/charities have you supported with your time and/or resources over past two years?
Dance Marathon - I am a Morale Captain Assistant who promotes a fundraiser for kids with cancer. Once a year we celebrate the money we raise by dancing continuously for 24 hours. I have volunteered over 100 hours to support this cause.
Big Brothers/Big Sisters of America - I've worked with a young boy once a week for the past year. He gives me the chance to become part of his life by doing projects, playing games, and helping him read. I have volunteered for this charity for over 38 hours.
Family Shelter Services - I help support auctions to raise money and awareness for abused women and children. I have volunteered over 10 hours towards this cause.
Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation Race for a Cure - I sponsored and participated in a 5k run fundraiser to help promote breast cancer awareness and research. I volunteered for 12 hours towards this cause.
Links to Literacy - I participate in service projects to help illustrate to adults and children that they can beat their constant struggles with basic reading skills. I have volunteered 20 hours to help this cause.
Crohn's and Colitis Foundation - I help promote fundraising by speaking to various clubs throughout my college to get people involved in supporting this cause. Once a year, we celebrate the money we have raised by having a wiffle ball tournament. I have volunteered for over 35 hours for this cause.
Habitat for Humanity - I helped raise money with others throughout my college to build a home for a family in need. I have volunteered over 15 hours for this charity.
What would be your "dream job" in life?
Professional Model with a Master's Degree in Psychology.
Name one personal accomplishment (in addition to being a State Titleholder) that makes you especially proud.
Working since the age of 14 is an accomplishment of which I am especially proud. I have worked to help support myself, pay my expenses, and to save for my future. My father has instilled in me a strong belief in self-sufficiency.
What are your hobbies and favorite activities?
Modeling, dance, soccer, volleyball, sewing, basketball.