Bailey Pretak, Ms. Pennsylvania, recently competed in the International United Miss (IUM) pageant.

She chose to compete in the optional competitions of Spokesmodel, where she gave a short motivational speech about her journey from insecurity to confidence, and Talent, where she sang and tap danced at the same time to “I Got Rhythm”. Pretak won both categories for her division.

To compete for the international title and crown, Pretak had to fulfill at least three hours of community service, give a short introduction of herself, walk in an evening gown, compete in a high fashion runway walk, and lastly have a one-on-one interview with each of the five judges.

This year the head judge for IUM was Miss America 2018, Cara Mund! Pretak finished second runner up overall for her division. There were three contestants who also had rare disorders who found Pretak to be inspiring with how she handles her own, Lamellar Ichthyosis. A highlight of the time was definitely meeting and talking to Miss America. Pretak even received a perfect score from her in her interview! Pretak will continue to reign as Ms. Pennsylvania through November, when she will have to return to Harrisburg to crown her successor. She’s hoping to continue doing pageants in the future and to someday bring home a national title.

Pretak encourages anyone interested in getting involved in pageants to contact her about this pageant system because it truly promotes community service, being yourself, positivity, and you gain a wonderful sisterhood of friends.