Get Ready for NAM Nationals 2014 with Tips from NAM Alumni!

Former National American Miss Rachel Landes gives her Top 3 Tips to get ready for NAM Nationals! 

Focus on what you can can control in the moment.--The only person and performance you can control is yourself. Focus your energy on preparing yourself so you can be your best self, not worrying about how other girls are performing.

Shake it out.--Before I would step on stage, whether it was for Personal Introduction, Formal Wear or the Opening Number, I would always shake my hands out while counting an eight-beat or two. It's a great way to focus your mind and literally shake out any last-minute nerves!

Positive affirmation.--Think of a quick, positive, upbeat positive affirmation to say in your head as you take a deep breath before stepping on stage. This always helped me be in the moment and crack an extra big smile.

Where is she now:

Rachel graduated from Drake University in 2013 with my Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with majors in Magazine Journalism and Marketing. She is currently living in Des Moines, Iowa working as a Project Manager for Wells Fargo, and  stays busy attending grad school by night pursuing her Masters of Strategic Communication. Rachel spent last summer traveling with NAM Team Maples as an Emcee/Choreographer and loved every Nam-tastic minute! In her free time, she enjoys cheering on the St. Louis Cardinals, cooking dinner with her boyfriend, and hanging out with her friends,some of whom live in the apartment just down the hall, so we joke we're the modern day version of "Friends." 

Rachel during her year of service as The 2011-2012 National American Miss!