¡Bienvenido a España!

Hola a todos! (Hi everyone!)

Welcome to my blog! Here I will be documenting my experiences as I travel abroad in Alcalá de Henares, Spain for the spring 2014 semester. I am very excited, as I have never traveled to Europe before and am looking forward to enhancing my Spanish speaking skills while learning about Spanish culture. I will also be taking classes here to continue my majors of International Studies and Spanish and my Certificate in Business. I am here through the University of Wisconsin-Madison and a program called CIEE. There are 3 others students from Madison here and 11 total from the United States in my program. I will try to blog at least once a week, but I cannot make any promises. Please let me know if you ever have any questions, I would love to answer them! So here we go:


After several hours of travel, I have finally arrived in Spain and settled in to my host family's home.

Day 1 &2:
I left Minneapolis at 7:00am on January 7th and flew to Boston, where my 9-hour layover turned into a 10 hour, which then caused me to miss my connecting flight in Paris to Madrid. Once I arrived in Madrid, I had missed the group shuttle to the hotel, so I had to navigate the metro and train on my own. Air France also managed to lose my luggage, so it was getting to be a very long trip to Alcalá. Luckily, I met a very nice woman who works in Madrid and had studied abroad in Alcalá during college as well. She helped me make sense of the maze that is the metro and I arrived safely to my hotel. After relaxing a bit, I had dinner with my group from CIEE in the hotel and then got some rest.

My mother and I at the airport very early in the morning!

My bag weighed exactly 50 pounds; I was quite impressed. Packing for 4 months is one of the most challenging things I've ever done; I am a notorious over-packer. 

Day 3:
Today we had an orientation session for most of the day where we covered some general rules and guidelines and received information about our classes and the culture in Spain. Fun fact: It is illegal to talk on the phone and drive at the same time in Spain! After orientation we took a trip to "El corte ingles" which is a store that I can best describe as a cross between Macy's and Target. They have EVERYTHING. We arrived back to our hotel, Hotel Campanile, and our host families came to pick us up and bring "home" for the next four months.

My host family is wonderful. There four members: Santiago, the father, Antonia, the mother, and Laura and Cristina, who are their daughters. They are all so sweet and welcoming, I could not have asked for a better family. I have my own room in their beautiful home, which is in Alcalá de Henares. The language barrier is a challenge and I am constantly asking my family to repeat phrases or to explain what they are trying to say. Of course, this is the objective of studying abroad and I know my Spanish to going to improve my leaps and bounds before May.

This is my room in Alcalá; I love it! 

Over the past three days I have discovered that traveling is wonderful...when everything goes as planned. A one hour flight delayed turned my trip upside-down, but it was a great learning experience! I am looking forward to sharing more and sharing my study abroad experience!

If you would like to contact me, please either messaged me on Facebook or email me at haler@wisc.edu. I am available via iMessage, whatsapp, or text free so please let me know if you would like one of those numbers.

All my best,
Victoria

ALPHA PHI: My Third Sisterhood!

If you have not noticed from your Newfeed being blasted with photos already....I am a new member of Alpha Phi at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and I am thrilled beyond words!

As a sophomore, it is less common to rush and I do regret not rushing as a freshman (rushing is the process of joining a sorority!). But, better late than never! One year ago I did not think Greek Life was for me and did not consider myself to be a "sorority girl". After watching my new friends at college experience greek life at Madison, my opinion changed as they shattered my preconceived stereotypes of what it meant to be a sorority girl. I now understand that there is not a single type of young woman who fits into a sorority. Rather, each chapter is different and encourages members to be themselves; I am so lucky to have found my fit in Alpha Phi.

Rushing is quite the process at Madison! We started last Sunday with First Rounds, which took 10 hours. That day we visited all 11 chapters on campus and were able to meet and chat with current members in their houses. At the end of the day, we ranked our favorites. Monday was another long day, 9 hours, as we completed Second Rounds. Second Rounds entail returning to up to 7 sororities that invite you back. We spent a little more time talking with the members and participated in a short activity to benefit their philanthropy. Again, at the end of the day we ranked our favorites.

Next up was Preference Rounds, where we returned to up to 3 sororities on the following Sunday. This round was more intimate and each chapter shared a special ceremony with us. At the end of the day, we ranked once again. While my decision was not easy, I knew I made the right choice and hoped for the best on Bid Day!

Bid Day was just yesterday, Monday, September 9th, and it was a day I will never forget! We reported to our assigned meeting spots where our envelopes with invitations to join our respective chapters awaited. I was surprisingly calm; I know that everything happens for a reason and that there is a plan for everyone. I kept this in mind as I opened my bid to Alpha Phi. I was ecstatic! Alpha Phi had been a front runner for me throughout the two week process and I enjoyed every minute I spent there; I am so excited to be an Alpha Phi! After a short ceremony, all of the new members were off to the house to meet our sisters for photos and socializing. Rushing was a great experience and I am so thankful I made the decision to participate.

Alpha Phi. I feel blessed to call this my new home filled with 150 new sisters who have already welcomed me with open arms. The Red Dress Gala and the Escape from Alphatraz events are held annually to benefit our philanthropy, Women's Cardiac Care. APhi stresses the importance of community service, which has always been an important part of my life. In addition to giving back, I know my time in Alpha Phi will be filled with social events and many memories while balancing my academics at UW Madison. I am proud to be a member of the 2013 Pledge Class and join a sorority comprised of beautiful, intelligent and compassionate women who constantly strive to be better. I look forward to sharing my experiences in Alpha Phi as I learn more about this amazing chapter!

This is third sisterhood! My older sister, Chaneen, is currently in Ecuador for the fall semester and is enjoying her time immersing herself in the Spanish language while continuing to work towards her degrees in Agricultural Education and International Agriculture. My younger sister, Jeni, is loving her first weeks at the University of Minnesota as she begins her studies in Spanish and Animal Science. My second sisterhood is ever-growing and I am continually amazed by my fellow pageant sisters; Kara competes for Miss SD International this weekend, my Miss Teen United States sisters are accomplishing great things in and outside of the pageant community and my Miss United States family is experiencing unprecedented growth and success! I cannot wait to see where my newest sisterhood, Alpha Phi, will take me over the next two years.  

Always,
Victoria

My Pledge Class! 

Me and Talia! 

Danielle and myself outside the house!

Back to the Books

With the start of a new school year approaching, I thought I should make it part of my routine to blog more often! So here we go:

A quick update on what I've been up to since giving up my title of Miss Teen Minnesota United States: I completed my first year at UW-Madison and moved home, in Minnesota, for the summer to work as a waitress at Jake O'Connors in Excelsior. I also had the amazing opportunity to work for the Miss United States Organization as the Director of Contestant Relations and Assistant to the National Director. In addition, I took three classes online over the course of the summer. It was quite busy, but I enjoy having a full schedule.

Back to the present, I just moved back to Madison yesterday to start my Sophomore year of college! I am excited to be living with three awesome roommates in a cute apartment on Lake Mendota. We are still getting everything settled in, but I will be sure to upload some photos of our new place. I am looking forward to an awesome school year continuing my undergraduate degrees in International Studies and Spanish. Because I am only taking three years of undergrad, my schedule is full once again. I am also returning as the Volunteer Chair of the Spanish Club on campus and taking on a new role as the Social Chair of the Wisconsin International Studies Major Association. Just earlier today, I finished submitting my application to study abroad for the spring semester. I am hoping to study abroad from January through May in Seville, Spain. Classes do not start until September 3rd, but things are already in full swing as I prepare for the fall semester.

I am hoping to find a little time to blog at least once or twice a month. I have found blogging is a great way to relax and reflect on all the blessings I have been given in my life.

Best,
Victoria

Signing Off- Miss Teen Minnesota United States 2012

This past weekend was absolutely spectacular and I could not be more pleased with our new queens. I am confident that each contestant took away something very special from the experience.

Our weekend started out with Friday's orientation and check-in. Everyone looked fabulous in their cocktail attire and we all enjoyed meeting and socializing. We had a red carpet to take pictures and the food was delicious. After a quick run down of the Miss United States rules and ethics and distribution fo the adorable opening number dresses, we got underway with rehearsal. Rehearsal can get a bit boring and long, but we all made learning walking patterns a good time! James Netz Photography captured most of the rehearsal on video, which I am sure will produce a few good laughs. Then it was off to bed for early morning interviews!

Interviews went wonderfully! Each contestant walked out smiling and confident about their answers. All the of judges worked very diligently to make good comments and detailed feedback. They seemed very pleased with the ladies. We were able to shoot short interviews with James Netz Photography about our Miss United States experience. After interviews were complete, we packed up our things and headed to The Landmark Center for lunch and rehearsals. After learning opening number, which did not include dancing (I think we were all grateful for that!) we reviewed walking patterns and practiced the all-important on stage question and crowning moment. As soon as we completed rehearsals, everyone rushed off to finish hair and make up.

I was so pleased with the how final production went. Chris Wilmer, our national director, was able to join us as the guest emcee, which was a very special treat. He does an outstanding job as national director and brought great energy to the Midwest pageants! Ashlea, our regional director, honored us all on stage with a sweet and heartfelt farewell. There is no way I will ever be able to thank her enough. As the crowning moment come closer and closer, the realization it was all coming to an end really hit. I would do it all again if I had the chance. I wish I could be going back to nationals in July with Maddy and Madison and experience the thrill of the national stage. I will truly miss it.

That being said, a HUGE congratulations to my successor, Myah! I am so proud of her and I know she will do great things as your new Miss Teen Minnesota United States! She is beautiful, smart and has big plans for the future. Please follow her year of the MN United States Facebook page! Each of our new queens, Mary, Rachel, Sarah, Tarron, Kayla and Meredith, are gorgeous and have exciting years ahead of them! The return of the Miss United States Pageant was a success and I cannot wait to see what the future holds for the pageant organization I am proud to call my family.

As for me, I am certainly not going anywhere! I will be changing the name of my blog to "Así es la vida", which is Spanish for "That's Life". I am looking forward to blogging about my life as a student at UW Madison majoring in International Studies and Spanish. I will be keeping everyone updated about my mission trip to Mexico in June and anything else that comes up along the way! In the pageant world, I will be taking at least a year off. I am studying abroad in Seville, Spain in spring of 2014, so I will be gone for about 4 months and believe it would be unfair to whatever organization I would be representing to be absent for nearly a third of my year. But, I am excited to explore new opportunities in pageantry!

Officially a Former Miss Teen Minnesota United States:

xoxo,
Victoria

Two Zero One Three!

Happy New Year! 2013 is in full swing and I could not be more thankful for a blessed 2012 and for all that is in store for the upcoming year.

During the end of December, I was able to make a few appearances while home on winter break! My younger sister, Jeni, and I rang bells for the Salvation Army at our hometown grocery store on December 18th and we had a blast! Jeni is also Miss Waconia, so we have two queens in the family:) It was heartwarming to see familiar faces and strangers donate to such a worthy cause during the Christmas Season. Later that same week, on the 20th, I helped with a Toys for Tots distribution in North Minneapolis. I worked with Northpoint Health and Wellness Center during their toys pick-up for their patrons. I met other wonderful volunteers and also got to see Santa! It was a day filled with fun, new faces and holiday cheer. It reminded me to count my blessing and be grateful for all the wonderful things in my life.

Myself and Jeni, Miss Waconia, bell ringing! 

Dan, another volunteer, and myself at Northpoint checking patrons in! 

After spending Christmas with my family and overeating; I helped with a meal delivery with WeCAN Meals on Wheels in Mound, MN. Meals on Wheels in a government program that provides meals for those who are in need on a weekly basis, Monday-Friday. I met with Carolyn Dillon, the director, and shared her route for the day. I met two of wonderful chefs behind the programs, as well as other volunteers who deliver every day, out of the goodness of their hearts. We delivered meals to a variety of people; one man was 100 years old! Most of the recipients were quite surprised to find me at their door; but I believe it was welcomed. I certainly enjoyed my day!

David, a volunteer, and I before deliveries! 

Felicia, myself and Julie. They are the amazing chefs! 

I'm hoping to make a few more appearances before I head back over the border to Madison on the 20th. I am looking forward to my photo shoot on the 18th and working on a few surprises for our pageant in February! As always, if you have any questions about Miss United States or an appearance, please do not hesitate to contact me!

The entry deadline for the Miss Minnesota United States pageant is January 31st. If you or someone you know would like to compete in the Jr. Teen, Teen or Miss competition, encourage them to enter! Our fees are very low and the prize packages are out of this world! Contact me or visit www.missminnesotaus.com for more information.

I hope 2013 is everyone's best year yet!

xoxo,
Victoria

An Unusual Holiday Gift

It is crazy how fast the time flies during this time of year. I hope this blog finds everyone safe and healthy as the Holidays begin. A very happy belated Thanksgiving to everyone, also!

When the Holidays roll around, I am always excited to shop for gifts for my family and friends. Giving presents, and expecting nothing in return, is such a wonderful feeling. This year, I would like to present a challenge to all of us "givers" out there. Instead of that cute Vera Bradley bag or a new sweater, try purchasing a charitable gift! Many foundations and charities have created options that allows you to "purchase" a donation in someone's name. This is a great way to make a difference in someone's life and give a truly unique present; the gift of change. My personal platform, Smile Network International, is always accepting donations; you can give the gift of a new smile to a child! Now that, is a very powerful gift.

The Holiday Season is also a time of age-old traditions; light the tree, opening presents on Christmas morning, attending the Holidazzle Parade and baking cookies. Even though we can all find ourselves busy and overwhelmed by all there is to do, it is important to keep those in need in mind. Start a new tradition this year. Volunteer with your family at a soup kitchen, or donate toys to a drive for those who cannot afford presents. Many shelters accept tie-blanket donations; pick the print with the family and tie it together! With so many options, even the smallest act can make a monumental difference in someone's life.

Let's go out, make a difference, and spread Holiday cheer!

xoxo,
Victoria

The Freshman 15 (Reasons to Love Yourself)!

Before I dive into my first blog of October, I have a very exciting announcement: my sister queen, Maddy Thoele and Miss MN United States, has recently gotten engaged! I am beyond excited for her and would like to wish her and her fiance, Adam, all the best. Maddy is the best mentor a girl could ask for; she is confident, smart, successful and a truly beautiful person inside and out. I cannot wait to see what her future as a married woman has in store for her, but I am sure it will be wonderful and fabulous just like her. I love you, Maddy! 

Now, The Freshman 15. Competing in pageants has taught me a lot. I know how to work a stage in various types of apparel, how to hold myself with poise, grace and just the right amount of spunk during an interview and how to do my hair and make up to near perfection. This summer as I competed for Miss Teen United States, I learned for the first time how to prepare myself for a swimsuit competition. It was one of the most challenging, frustrating and rewarding experiences of my entire life. I was beyond pleased with how I looked on stage. I felt extremely confident, mainly because I knew I had worked so hard to get to where I was. 

As a college freshman, people often daunt about gaining "The Freshman 15" pounds. As a young woman, the thought of gaining 15 pounds is terrifying. Over the first month of college, I have found myself comparing my body to my friends and complete strangers I walk by on my way to class every day. 

Since Nationals in July, I have not been following a diet and exercise plan that is quite as strict. And let's face it, college food is simply not as healthy as it could be. When your mom can buy fresh fruits and veggies once a week, it's much easier to maintain a balanced diet. But, that does not mean you don't have a choice. True, I could have pizza for breakfast, lunch and dinner, but I don't. 

Through my experiences in preparing for Miss Teen United States, I learned much more than I ever wanted to know about diets and eating right. But eating healthy gave me much more than a healthy body; it boosted my confidence and made me good about how hard I was working. So, I stopped comparing myself to other girls I see on the sidewalk. I feel good about myself because I know I eat well and workout when I should. That's the most important part: feeling good about the decisions you make. Instead of thinking about the 15 pounds you could gain, find 15 reasons to love yourself. Find 15 healthy new foods you want to try, or 15 new exercise moves to try! Staying positive is key. 

I simply cannot thank Jason, from Youngquest Fitness, Cheri Kennedy, my coach, Ashlea McLeod, my director, and Maddy, my sister queen, enough for helping me on my journey, always believing in me and giving me reasons to love myself! I just may have found inspiration for a new platform:)

xoxo,

Victoria