Miss Illinois' Outstanding Teen Maddie Mazzella
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Maddie Mazzella is the kind of young woman who has a natural spotlight surrounding her. She is full of grace, smiles and laughter. Not only is she a wonderful example of today's youth, she is the perfect representation of our state as Miss Illinois' Outstanding Teen.
Where are you from? How has that shaped who you are today?
I am from Chicago, and I am a city girl through and through! Life in the city moves at a very fast pace and compliments my busy lifestyle very well.
Tell us about your experience in pageants...
I competed in my first pageant when I was in fifth grade and it stuck! I am currently Miss Illinois' Outstanding Teen. One of the best moments of my life was when my name was called as the winner. It was something I had been working towards and dreaming of for such a long time. It meant and still means everything to me.
What does a typical day look like for you?
I normally wake up at 6 a.m. and get ready for school. After school, I head to musical rehearsal for around 2-3 hours. Depending on the day, after musical rehearsal, I'll either head to voice lessons, dance class, a workout class, or tutoring. Once I get home, I do homework, study, and run lines until I can barely keep my eyes open!
Do you have any pets?
I have a dog named Coco. Her breed is Teddy Bear, and she certainly lives up to the name. She still had the cutest puppy personality even though she's no longer a puppy.
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How would you define your personal style?
Girly and preppy with a dash of comfort!
What is your favorite fashion trend right now?
My school has a dress code, so I love accessorizing my outfits with jewelry, preppy belts, rhinestone headbands, and fun shoes. My favorite fashion trend right now would probably be denim skirts or sweaters with bell sleeves!
Do you have a favorite outfit that you modeled at Eccentrics?
I loved the black mini skirt with the fringe sweater and thigh high boots. Give a girl the right pair of shoes, and she can conquer the world! I felt fierce and fabulous in that cute ensemble!
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Do you have a beauty secret you wish to share?
"Baking" is definitely my number one beauty tip! It is a technique made popular by Kim Kardashian that makes your makeup last all day. You apply your concealer as your normally would, but after, you cake loose powder on areas you want to highlight. After letting it set for a while, you sweep away the excess.
What is one thing no one would believe to be true about you?
A lot of people are surprised to hear that my secret dream is to be a regular on Saturday Night Live!
What is your life motto?
"To whom much is given much is expected." I think about this quote several times each day. I've been blessed with many amazing opportunities, so I have to give one hundred percent of myself in everything I do.
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What kind of food do you love?
I love all food! My favorite place to eat is Piazza Bella, an Italian restaurant in Chicago. However, my favorite food is a lobster roll!
First thing you do when you wake up?
I immediately check my phone when I wake up and check Snapchat.
Last thing you do before you go to bed?
I like to make a list of everything I need to accomplish the next day, so I can prepare myself properly!
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What music is playing in your car right now?
I don't really have a favorite band because I love so many different ones! Some of my favorite artists include Taylor Swift, Chance the Rapper, the Killers, Lana Del Rey, Beyoncé, Lorde, and Luke Bryan... oh and Justin Bieber! In 2013, I actually was chosen to be his One Less Lonely Girl which is when he serenades one lucky girl on stage. I am currently playing "How Not To" by Dan + Shay. I think I've listened to it every day this week ...
How would you describe yourself in three sentences?
I come across very focused and serious when people first meet me. However, I love joking around and having fun!
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
In five years, I will have just graduated college! Hopefully, I will be working as an actress, but over all else, I just want to be happy and healthy!