Reigning Teen

Amanda O’Leary, a 19-year-old sophomore at Chapman University in Orange and current Miss Teen California, will compete in the 16th Annual Miss Teen USA Pageant tomorrow night on CBS.

Q: How long will it take to prepare for the contest?

A: An hour for makeup and 15 minutes for hair. I have naturally curly brown hair that doesn’t need to be hairsprayed.

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Q: That’s lucky.

A: I’m known for my big hair. Three years ago my friend’s mom gave me a book called “Amanda’s Hair.” Amanda has big hair and everyone notices her because of her big hair. In the end she cut it off. I thought it was funny.

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Q: What did you wear in your first pageant?

A: A Sunday dress. I happened to win, and the other moms were like, “Oh, my God, she’s wearing that dress!”

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Q: Where do you fall on the swimsuit issue?

A: It’s not about having the skinniest or smallest figure, it’s about how fit you are. I don’t consider myself a skinny girl, but I work out.

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Q: Do your classmates know you’re Miss California?

A: Most don’t. But I had a history class and my teacher saw a small article about me. He said, “I didn’t know you were Miss California.” That was neat.

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Q: Any diplomatic aspirations?

A: No, my plans are to become a businesswoman. There are no political arenas in my future.

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Q: Ever let anyone try on your crown?

A: No. The California one is special.