For Maggie McGill, pageants weren't always a part of the plan. The Plymouth native and current freshman at the University of St. Thomas has spent the last year competing in pageants, where she's challenged herself, made a global impact and met a celebrity or two.
McGill currently holds the title of Miss Minnesota Teen USA 2013 and recently returned home from the Bahamas, where she competed in the Miss USA pageant. She placed as the fourth runner-up, historically further than any other Minnesotan. With so much success, it's hard to believe McGill only started competing in pageants less than one year ago.
McGill was a sophomore at Benilde-St. Margaret's heading to the homecoming dance with friends when she was approached by a representative who suggested she try pageants. "It was so unexpected, but after learning more about pageants, I figured why not give it a try," says McGill.
Already a competitive figure skater, McGill had some experience in the spotlight, but she was challenged to find her voice. "I've always been super shy and not the best at speaking in front
of people, but pageants are mostly interview-based. I really had to push myself and learn to speak for myself," says McGill.
While being challenged to step outside her comfort zone, McGill has also enjoyed the perks of her pageant work. She's escorted celebrities like Bill Clinton and Barbara Bush, and her personal favorite, Ashton Kutcher. But, more importantly, McGill has had a chance to help support local organizations. "I've loved all of the volunteer opportunities. I've gotten to be a part of so many great causes."
McGill is currently working to support a cause she is passionate about. After hearing about a neighbor’s childhood experience growing up in an Indian orphanage, McGill began looking for ways to help. Using her talent for sewing, McGill created a volunteer dress-making mission for the now all-girls’ orphanage. McGill sews dresses to be sent along with local families visiting the orphanage. Although McGill has not seen the fruits of her efforts or met the girls receiving these dresses, McGill says that "just knowing they're getting the dresses is reward enough."
Going forward, McGill will be focusing on her studies in dentistry. She plans to follow in her parents’ footsteps, who are both local dentists, and to continue to challenge herself. "It's going to be a lot of hard work, but I know it's worth it,” says McGill. “All of the best things are.”
