This week, during a random exchange with someone I met, that person asked if I have children. Now, I am getting used to that question from students that I visit. My answer to them is always, "No, I do not have children. I am not married either...If I were married my title wouldn't be Miss North Carolina, but what would it be?" Then I hear a chorus of "MRS. North Carolina!"

But when I answered "No, not yet" to the adult, I realized that it's not an entirely true statement. I feel like I have adopted thousands of North Carolina children this year. They are like my very own.

I can see how teachers get hooked, despite the obstacles they must overcome on a daily basis. It's the kids that do it. As a presenter or teacher, it is easy to feed off their energy. And their enthusiasm. And their hugs. You just have to be careful to brace yourself when they hug because they can, and will, take you out right at the knees!

The students I have come in contact with this year have truly impressed me. Even the groups that I thought would be the scariest audiences, MIDDLE SCHOOLERS, have been among the very best. Just this week I visited an after-school program for 6-8th graders who struggle with academics. The school received a grant to pay teachers to stay once a week to help them with their studies. Students are chosen through an application process. It was amazing to see that the students see attendance of the program as a privilege and take their time there seriously. They far exceeded my expectations.

But then again, students usually do. My favorite encounter is usually one when a child asks a very grown-up question that reveals his or her level of understanding. Recently, as I try to drive home the message that community service is more than a punishment entailing picking up trash on the side of the road, I have received lots of questions about helping the poor and feeding the hungry. That's another thing to feed off of...their inspiration.

Two weeks ago, I had another encounter with an exceptional group called "Girl Power." These middle school girls also apply for this program and see it as a privilege. They become young ladies powerful with self-knowledge and world knowledge. I was honored to be the keynote speaker of their ceremony and luncheon. When I walked in I noticed and complimented them on these great t-shirts they had made. It wasn't until I saw the back that it hit me just how special their wardrobe was for that particular day. Printed on the back was the outline of North Carolina and a big "Welcome Miss North Carolina." I autographed the shirts and numerous other things (i.e. napkins, pictures, but NO body parts as a general rule!). They made me feel like a rock star! But, more importantly, I hope they also all have a chance at success and that feeling of be recognized in a positive light. It seems to me that their teachers are seeing to it that they unleash their power to do that very thing.

At almost every school I go to someone tells me I should be a teacher. To me, that is a supreme compliment because it is one of the most difficult jobs a person could have. But despite the difficulties, these faculties dedicate their lives to the job. And to the children. It is unfortunate to me that teachers are not compensated for their role in molding our young people; they should not have to be recruited into a sainthood of sorts, but should be clamoring for benefits rewarded to those working in a tough industry.

Although I may not be a public school teacher, I appreciate the confidence this experience has given me for my next endeavor. In the fall I will begin my last year of graduate school, or what I tell students is the "eighteenth grade." During that time I will also be a public speaking instructor for undergraduates. I could not think of better on-the-job training than the position of Miss North Carolina. It truly prepares you for anything you will do in the future, especially if you throw all of your energy into a cause you find important. I cannot wait to watch young women in upcoming years as they discover this for themselves.

On a final note, Happy Read Across America Week! Happy Birthday to Dr. Seuss! Students everywhere love being invited to this party and celebration. They love his literature and the opportunity to wear red and white hats and eat green eggs and ham. Ice hogs love Dr. Seuss, too. This week I traveled with Stormy the Ice Hog, the Carolina Hurricanes mascot. Just don't ask him if he has tried green eggs and ham...

Still tearing up the road,
Jessica