Boot Camp Testimonials – Class of 2010
Madison Leonard – Idaho – Distinguished Young Woman of America 2010 – Talent Award
"Coming out of the four days spent at Dee Ann's Boot Camp, I had all the tools in my possession to do the best I could (and relax!) once I arrived at Nationals. These tools, in my opinion, include: the abilities to think and communicate clearly, confidence in yourself and your unique talent, and most importantly, the ways to relate to people around you and make lasting relationships. The most beautiful part of this scholarship program is that it rewards girls who are established in themselves, have the ambition to be well-rounded in all areas of life, and do the best that they can. Dee Ann's camp helps to improve areas of weakness, but more importantly helps you to recognize the amazing strengths you have, letting you be the best you can be. More than anything I made friendships at Boot Camp that will survive further than any award or title ever will. I absolutely recommend camp and will cherish the memories made in the beautiful hills of North Carolina for years to come."
Anna Bryce Flowe – South Carolina – D Y W 2nd Runner Up – Self Expression Award Winner
"I am a true believer in fate, and I believe that fate placed me in Brevard, NC at Dee Ann's Bootcamp for a reason. Not only did I meet some of the most incredible women in the United States, but I also learned more about myself in this one weekend, than I have in my entire life. I learned that there ARE other girls like me. In fact, there were 5 in the same house as me! I learned that doing a three hour workout with an amazing trainer was "DO-able" for me! AND I learned that Randy deserves a show on the food network! Bootcamp for me was also a HUGE help with my preparation for America's Junior Miss. I was able to solidify the exact movements for my talent with Dee Ann's help, and the interviewing practice was such a blessing! Actually seeing myself interview helped so much! The weekend I spent a Junior Miss Boot Camp will always be unforgettable. It helped me form friendships that I will cherish for years to come, and , of course, it helped me be prepared for Nationals. That way when I arrived in Mobile for those amazing two weeks all I had to do was learn my routines, laugh a lot, and eat a TON of oysters! "
Kristen Mosley – Alabama – National Finalist
"Camp is such a vital experience. Mrs. Dee Ann has a way of not only preparing you for Nationals, but also life beyond Nationals. Her help effects a polishing of your best self and refreshed your spirit. Plus the food and setting exceed perfection!"
Paige Wagner – California – National Finalist
"Before going to Mobile, I wanted to be as ready as I could. I figured that this was probably my one chance to compete in a National competition, and it was a big deal! When I asked the state Junior Misses from previous years to give me advice, many of them brought up Dee Ann's Boot Camp without me even having to ask about it. With their recommendations, I researched it and decided to give it a shot. Sacrificing my senior trip proved to be worth it as I made friendships and was given invaluable information regarding my future experience in Mobile. For one, I was the roommate of the future Distinguished Young Woman of America, and feel blessed to have seen a beautiful side of her that not many people do. I developed a special bond with all of the girls at camp that carried with me in Mobile, and it was incredibly reassuring to know that I had someone with which I could talk, vent, or laugh as I needed it. When I was leaving for the airport the morning of my Mobile adventures, the only thing I thought was how grateful I was that I attended Dee Ann's Camp. Worrying about making friends was the last thing on my mind because I knew I already made life-long friendships, and that is not an understatement. I turned to my camp girls whenever I was feeling inadequate, and they would comfort me, or whenever I felt like I was on top of the world, and they would celebrate with me.
As far as being prepared for the actual competition, I can honestly say that I would not have been half as prepared for Mobile, had I not gone to camp. I was given a second chance to prepare after I saw everything I needed to work on at camp, and it helped me feel so much more relaxed when I got to Nationals. I felt like camp was a secret weapon I had that helped me feel emotionally one step ahead of the game. My favorite part about Dee Ann was when we would have our one-on-one chats, and I saw her genuine love for ME. We bonded in a way that I knew she was rooting for me, and wanted to help me in any way she could to help me shine on that stage in Mobile. I got to know, appreciate, and love who I am more fully. No award or monetary value could ever compare. I'm pretty sure I was even brought to tears during some of Dee Ann's talks. "Don't you EVER doubt yourself. It's a crap shoot. Your time in Mobile should be spent making friends, not trying to win the freaking thing." And that's just what I did. Thank you, Dee Ann!"
Katie von Diezelski – Louisiana – Be Your Best Self Award
It would be impossible for me to fully describe my boot camp experience because I would have to write an entire book! The time I spent at your boot camp was not only so helpful but also extremely inspirational! I have always been excited about junior miss, but after leaving boot camp, I could not wait to continue preparing for Mobile! All of your guidance definitely helped me to feel more confident and prepared at nationals. I feel so lucky to have had the experience! Love you! :)
Jacque Underhill –Oregon
The word "Boot Camp" may sound intimidating, but what other boot camp allows for hot tubing, home-made meals by Chef Randy, and lots of laughs? This really is a one of a kind experience and not only did I have a ball at Dee Ann's Boot Camp, I also left with confidence and a feeling of complete preparation which made nationals sound much less intimidating. This wonderful lady knows her stuff and will help you to become the best you can be. What an amazing experience.
hugs hugs hugs, jacque
Hannah McMillan – North Carolina
I can't explain how exciting it was to be reunited with my fellow boot-campers at AJM. In a room full of girls I had never met, it was so comforting to already know three others. The time I spent at boot-camp was well-spent! I made friends, memories, and self improvements. I appreciated Dee Ann's advice because it was unbiased and useful! Nationals was a wonderful experience and I certainly feel that my benefits were increased due to my time at boot-camp!
April Bragg – Local Program Director – Milledgeville-Baldwin County
Her Representative was Natali Gavanarova – Georgia – National Finalist – Talent Award
I can't begin to thank you enough for the time & attention you took with Natali at Boot Camp and beyond. Your expertise and support is invaluable. I am so thankful to have had the opportunity to send 2 of my local girls to you in preparation for the National program, and can say without a doubt that they gained even greater self-awareness and confidence through that experience. I wish I could bottle, mass-produce & distribute your "moxie" and know-how, so that EVERY girl who comes through this program could realize their potential and maximize their experience the same way that your Boot Camp girls do. You are one-of-a-kind, and it is an honor to call you "my friend".
Boot Camp Testimonials – Class of 2009
Elissa Houk – 2009 Pennsylvania Junior Miss – Preliminary Talent Winner
"I would first like to say that I had a wonderful camp experience. Dee Ann
warmly welcomed me into her home and gave me the constructive criticism that
only a true Junior Miss and experienced judge can give. I love that Dee Ann
did not attempt to change ME. We only worked on enhancing my positive
characteristics and letting them shine through. Also, I believe that the
confidence I gained during our mini boot camp session not only prepared me
for Mobile but the rest of my life. Thank you Dee Ann for not only all you
have done for me but all you continue to do for the Junior Miss program!"
Kathryn Tully – 2009 Alabama Junior Miss – Top Ten Finalist – Preliminary Fitness Winner
Imagine this: up in the beautiful North Carolina mountains, with AMAZING food, and the best Junior Miss coach in the country. I can't picture a better experience! Not only did I feel completely prepared to enter this program with confidence because of her advice and tips, I gained lifelong skills that will apply beyond Junior Miss. Mrs. Dee Ann doesn't change anything about you, she just finds the "best you," which is exactly what the Junior Miss program promotes. LOVE YOU Mrs. Dee Ann!!!
Ashley Bracey – 2009 Utah Junior Miss – Spirit Award Winner – My Town Award Winner
Going to Dee Ann's Boot Camp is a decision you will never regret. Everything is phenomenal! Dee Ann is the sweetest person you will ever meet. She was so helpful, loving, encouraging, and supporting. From the mock interviews to the fitness rehearsals, her boot camp helped me feel more than prepared to go to Nationals in Mobile. I know I couldn't have done it without the incredible Dee Ann. I promise you will you be grateful you went. I hope every girl gets the opportunity to stay in Dee Ann's lovely home (the food is scrumptious as well! :) She makes you feel the winner you are! I love you Dee Ann!
Divya Srinvasan – 2009 Virginia Junior Miss – Top 10 Finalist – Preliminary Interview, Talent, Scholarship Winner
Dee Ann's Boot Camp is aptly named- it's a jampacked three days of hard work and fun! Before I came to Boot Camp I was a little apprehensive of where I stood in my Junior Miss preparation. Though I had had a couple of months since my state program, I hadn't really had time to focus on the areas I needed work in. Being at Boot Camp was such a beneficial experience for me because not only did I learn my areas of weakness, but I also learned about areas of improvement in things that I thought I was good at. Miss Dee Ann taught me that the little details matter-- that the way how you walk in and out of a room in heels can show people your confidence, or that the way how you stand can enhance your "leg line" (I didn't even know what a leg line was), or that you can smile for hours without your muscles hurting if you follow her little trick. And, Miss Dee Ann's involvement in your Junior Miss [and life] preparation doesn't just end after those four days are over. She's kind of like one of the many "moms" you will have on your Junior Miss journey. She is constantly trying to make you be the best self you can be, and that I think is one of the most important things of having her as a mentor. Her main goal is to help you with America's Junior Miss, but along the way, she also helps you to be a better person. And even if you're afraid of the hard work, you should still attend Miss Dee Ann's boot camp for the food and the scenery, because the setting for her boot camp is amazing! Bottomline: DeeAnn's Boot Camp is as amazing as its director. No surprises there. :)
Laura Moore – 2009 Florida Junior Miss – Preliminary Interview Winner
Thank you so much for all of the amazing help you gave me. More than anything else, I believe that I am better for participating in Junior Miss. With all your guidance, I know that I made huge strides getting ready for Nationals. I also know that I'll be able to use what I learned, interviewing and speaking especially, for the rest of my life!!
Sidney Anthony – 2009 Mississippi Junior Miss – Nationals First Runner Up – Preliminary Talent & Fitness Winner
"I strongly suggest you go to Dee Ann's boot camp if you get the chance. Since my state program was the summer before Nationals, boot camp really helped kick off my preparations for AJM and get me focused. Dee Ann is so knowledgeable about the Junior Miss program, and she is so willing to help each and every one of the state representatives who wants to do their best at Nationals. I am so fortunate I was able to attend boot camp, for I'll never forget all the fun times I had meeting some of the other girls and getting ready for AJM. Trust me, you don't want to miss out!
-Sidney :)"
Boot Camp Testimonials – Classes of 2006 - 2008
Helen Ching - North Carolina Junior Miss 2008 - 1st Runner Up at Nationals - Talent Award Winner - National Top 8
Attending your Boot Camp was one of the best decisions I have ever made because it gave me an accurate simulation of Nationals. I knew what to expect and how to handle things. All of your advice not only helped me with Junior Miss, but with other areas of my life as well. Your tips proved very useful throughout my preparation and during my time at America's Junior Miss. Thank you so much for helping me to be my best self!
Jackie Rotman - California Junior Miss 2008 - 2nd Runner Up at Nationals - Scholarship Award Winner - Be Your Best Self Award Winner - My Town Award Winner -
National Top 8
Where do I begin? Thank you, thank you, thank you for all your wisdom that you shared with me and the other Boot Camp girls. You gave not only your time and your home, but your heart, your love and your unconditional support. Your Boot Camp really motivated me to work hard on my talent, fitness and figure out where I needed improvement. It was incredible!
Norma Boyd - Alabama Junior Miss 2008 - Spirit Award Winner - Online Photo Album Award Winner - Fitness Award Winner - Self Expression Winner - National Top 8
I just wanted to thank you for everything! You were such a big help and inspiration during my Junior Miss journey!
Lauren McCalmont - Louisiana Junior Miss 2008 - Be Your Best Self Winner - Self Expression Winner
The best thing that could have happened to me while preparing for Nationals was going to Boot Camp. I had the wonderful opportunity of making five new friends before I traveled to Mobile and I learned invaluable advice that helped with every aspect of Junior Miss. Boot Camp not only better prepared me for Nationals, it encouraged me to be a better me. Dee Ann put in me the desire to be my best self! I love you, Dee Ann!
Hi Ms. Dee Ann!
In my personal opinion, camp was wonderful! It really helped me prepare for nationals. I don't think that there is a single piece of advice that did not help me. I feel that everything you went over helped me be more confident in my performance and more comfortable throughout the entire program. I would have to say the most helpful thing was the mock interviews. Even though I felt overwhelmed doing so many interviews during the two day time frame, I think that the practice made my interview more natural and personable at the national competition. I am so thankful for all of your guidance and advice throughout this experience. I know that the skills you have taught me will go much further than junior miss. Thanks for everything!
With Love,
Kayla Loveday, Class of 2008
Mary Catherine McAnnally – Alabama Junior Miss 2007 – Daily Journal Award Winner – Be Your Best Self Essay Award Winner - Talent Award Winner - Self Expression Award Winner - National Spirit Winner - National Top 8
“I enjoyed myself more that I can say and the girls I attended Camp with are still close friends. I loved every minute of Boot Camp (especially the desserts!) and would highly encourage anyone who can to go. For girls who come from Programs much smaller than AL’s, this course would have been an absolute life-saver. It’s totally worth it!.”
Heather Badeaux - 2007 Louisiana Junior Miss - Community Service Award Winner, Interview Award Winner,
Scholastics Award Winner, National Top 8
Boot Camp was the highlight in my year of preparation for America's Junior
Miss. I had a wonderful experience and left feeling more confident in every
area of competition. I believe that my biggest improvements were in my
interview. The morning fitness sessions were a serious workout! Most
important though, were the friendships that I formed. I could not wait to go
to Mobile to see my 5 "Boot Camp Buddies" again!
Paige Ledger - Iowa Junior Miss 2007 - Be Your Best Self Essay Award Winner
"Boot Camp re-ignited my drive to practice, practice, practice for Nationals.
Having mock interviews helped my interview skills tremendously and Dee Ann
also taught me the importance of having FUN in my interview!"
Jane Chaffee - North Carolina Junior Miss - 2007 - Fitness
Award Winner
"Dee Ann's camp was a great preparation tool for America's Junior Miss. You
address everything from working on how to stand during interview to watching
past Junior Miss videos to really get an idea of what the program is like
down in Mobile. Dee Ann 's camp helped me mostly with interview. I had
always had trouble really being myself in that particular environment. The
way Dee Ann helps us is so beneficial because she allows us to see our
mistakes and another chance to correct them so we can see immediate results.
One of the best things about Boot Camp is meeting the other girls. It is a
comfort to know a handful of girls when you first get to Mobile. Boot Camp
is awesome!"
Hannah Disterdick - Tennessee Junior Miss 2007 - Interview Award Winner
"Boot Camp definitely helped me at Nationals! It not only helped in the 4
categories of competition, but I gained 3 best friends that were always
there for me at Nationals. It also helped me become more focused on Junior
Miss and what was to come. It was easy at home to forget about what a huge
organization I was taking part in, but through Boot Camp, I was able to have
the true mind-set of "competition" to be the best you can be."
Erica Evans – Delaware Junior Miss 2007
"Dee Ann’s Boot Camp is a valuable experience unlike any other. All inclusive of rigorous fitness training, mock interviews, good food and an opportunity to get a head start on Junior Miss friendships. Dee Ann prepares her girls to perform their best at the National Finals. An, after leaving Boot Camp, I reflected on her lessons everyday when preparing to leave for Alabama. She has truly been a friend and mentor to me in more ways than one. Thank you!!"
Virginia Duke – Montana Junior Miss 2007
"I had a great time at Boot Camp and I definitely felt prepared for nationals – very prepared, thank to Dee Ann. Her help with my talent was invaluable. When I got home, I remembered her advice while I was re-choreographing my routine. I loved doing so many practice interviews and Dee Ann’s critique at the end of the weekend. Fitness sessions motivated me to do pushups and to work out and because of Boot Camp, I had fabulous pushups for Nationals. I loved everything about Camp!"
Caitlyn Smith – Mississippi – Junior Miss 2007
"Boot Camp was an especially great way to meet the other campers before heading off to Mobile. I felt like I already had a small family before I even got there! The early morning fitness sessions were a challenge, but I feel that they really helped. I am now a proud yoga-holic! Thanks for all that you did!"
Bliss McMichael – Georgia Junior Miss 2007
"Thank you for all of your help with preparation for Nationals. It was great to form friendships with some of the contestants prior to Mobile. You truly helped me feel prepared and ready for AJM. From the excellent food to the intense interview sessions, the weekend was great! Thanks again for everything!"
Kathleen Voss - Ohio Junior Miss 2007
"Boot Camp was even more than great preparation. It was a wonderful time to
get to meet other Junior Misses and soon to be "sisters" that share the same
values and motifs as you do. Boot Camp allows you to enjoy your time more at
AJM; you feel one step ahead, plus you already have five close friends you
can count on through the entire AJM experience! I would recommend it to
everyone!"
Hope Lu – North Carolina Junior Miss 2005 – 1st Runner Up at Nationals – Scholastics Preliminary Winner - Overall Talent and Interview Winner
“I had such a wonderful time and learned so many new things at Boot Camp. I really saw such a change in myself from one night to the other. It was truly amazing. The things I learned at boot camp will not only help us with AJM but we will carry these lessons with us throughout life. Thank you for showing us so much and for being a great instructor, friend, and advisor. I will take your guidance with me throughout my life – all my lessons of makeup, hair, clothes, physical well being, cooking and more will stay with me for a long time. Thank you again – you are such an inspiration to me.”
Jaye Herrod – Alabama Junior Miss 2005
“You’re right – Boot Camp is much more than just “Junior Miss 101”. It’s more like “Womanhood 101”! You’re the best!”
Sara Rose – Virginia Junior Miss 2006
“If I could say one thing to your Boot Camp girls – it would be – listen to what Dee Ann tells you. I didn't’t do what she told me to do and I regret it! If I had it to do over – I would have worked harder and on what Dee Ann taught me.”
Sarah Hannah Newman – South Carolina Junior Miss 2006
“I feel so much more prepared for America’s Junior Miss because of all the advice you gave me. All your insight will help me be my best self at nationals. I gained so much valuable information, which gives me so much more confidence.”
Megan Butler – Alabama Junior Miss 2006 – National Preliminary Talent Winner
“I just want to thank you for all that you have done for me. Ever since your camp, I have been using all of your tips and tricks to attempt to be the best Junior Miss I can be. I feel like I have improved so much physically, emotionally, and with talent but I wouldn’t have done this without your help! I am so glad I decided to go to your Boot Camp! Thank you for believing in me and giving me some of your pearls of wisdom and insight into the Junior Miss world. I can not thank you enough for the confidence you have given me!”
Virginia Fox – Mississippi Junior Miss 2006 – National Top 8 & Talent Preliminary Winner
“I just wanted to say thank you one more time for such a wonderful weekend! I really enjoyed everything from the mock interviews to your wonderful cooking!”
Laura Beard – Florida Junior Miss
“Thanks for your generosity and insightful training. You are the kind of person I feel an instant connection to. You are an inspiration to me – thank you for showing me all that Junior Miss can offer!”
Holli Smith – Tennessee Junior Miss 2006 – National Fitness Preliminary Winner
“All your advice helped me so much and I know I have walked away with no regrets about anything because I did my best. I had a blast and I am so thankful I was able to get to know you!”
Blair Harshbarger – Georgia Junior Miss 2006 – National Be Your Best Self Winner
“Your Mini Boot Camp gave me the preparation and confidence I needed to do my best and have a great time, both of which I accomplished! Thanks for all you do!”
Molly Bales – North Carolina Junior Miss 2006 - National Top 8 – Scholastics & Self Expression Preliminary Winner
“Thanks again for all your help! You’ll get a good recommendation from me! Thanks for everything!
C.J. Patton – Mississippi Judges Co-Chairman
“This past March I had the pleasure of judging Florida’s Junior Miss Program 2006 and Laura Beard was chosen. In June we attended the preliminary and finals of AJM. I was amazed at the difference in this young lady and I believe that the difference was due to her attending your “Boot Camp” and to her hard work! Laura appeared much more poised and confident and her piano performance was so much better that I had to look back at my notes from her state program to see that was the same piece! Of all the state winners I have judged, I saw more improvement in Laura Beard’s performance between the state and national programs. Both you and Laura are to be congratulated for a job well done! To me, this is what Junior Miss is all about – being your best self – and Laura Beard, with your help, has done just that!
|
