Three classes of fifth graders at Overstreet Elementary got to hear a “be your best self,” message when Mississippi Distinguished Young Women winner Abigail Musser gave a presentation.
Musser discussed with the students the Distinguished Young Women Scholarship message, giving examples and asking students questions on various subjects. Musser, a Starkville High School senior will travel to Mobile in June to compete for scholarships at the national level.
“I talked to them about being healthy, being involved, being responsible and being studious, and how all of those things kind of work together and (it’s) important that you do your best in every single one of those elements so that you’re the best you that you can be.”
Musser became part of the Distinguished Young Women program as a junior, and has won Distinguished Young Women of Starkville and of Mississippi before going to the national competition.
“It has really helped me to remember all of those things in my everyday life, whether that’s extracurricular activities, or in school, or running,” Musser said. “All of those things really motivate me and remind me that I should do the best that I can in every single activity.”
Musser said she hoped the fifth graders would pick up on the same message.
“It’s about them doing the best that they can, and they don’t compare themselves to other people, and that if you are trying your hardest, and are working hard in everything that you do, then it doesn’t matter if someone’s better than you or worse than you, because it’s not about comparison, it’s about being your best self.”
In Mobile, Musser will compete in five elements: academics, talent, fitness, self-expression, talent and an essay. She will have the opportunity to receive several scholarships, through Distinguished Young Women. In total $1.5 billion in scholarships is available to Distinguished Young Women participants.
Musser plans to attend Mississippi State University majoring in environmental engineering.
The national event in Mobile grew out of Azelearama, an event hosted by the Jaycees of Mobile in the 1950s to promote Mobile and its azaleas.
“I think the importance is helping young women to become more self-confident by participating in the program,” said Distinguished Young Women Program Chairman Susan Keith.
Keith said the program’s elements all offered young women skills for life. She also lauded Musser’s progress.
“She certainly has all of the qualities of a distinguished young woman,” Keith said. “She is smart, she’s focused, she’s determined, she’s independent.”