What is the pageant you're going to be competing in and how did you hear about it? Cat: This is going to be my first year in being in a pageant. I'm competing in the National American Miss. Donna: We first heard of the company through her cheerleader friends. The National American Miss is through nomination only and we had someone write a letter. You have to have great grades and be an active student. They filter to see if you qualify to be a finalist for the state. She was nominated and selected to be the Virginia finalist. If you get a letter, that's how you know.

Does the pageant require that you have a platform? DT: [The pageant] wants you to be active in your community through whatever cause you support. It's not about beauty, but your background. There is no image of her [that they see before selection]; they judge by recommendation and the documentation. So they don't care about your looks or your size.

What preparation goes into pageant readiness? DT: The only material thing that we have to get her is a pageant gown. You have to be mentally ready. She is practicing her introduction speech. She's going to have a few career-like interviews. So she has to work on her speaking skills. Cat: There is also a talent show. I'm working on something for it. It has no [criteria]; it can be anything.

What lessons do you learn by participating in pageants? Cat: Confidence and speaking skills for interviews.

What are your hobbies? Cat: I like to draw, craft, write sometimes and sing. I also like cheerleading, playing instruments, mountain biking, gymnastics, swimming, jazz piano and playing recorder. DT: She loves crafting and creates a lot of her own DIY crafts. She's good with tutorials on YouTube.

What are your favorite subjects in school? Cat: I really enjoy history. I enjoy learning all of the new facts. I like Abraham Lincoln. I like how he ended slavery like no other president.

How about your favorite movie and why you like it? Cat: I like Big Hero 6. I love how family and friends just help each other.

Who is your favorite music artist? Cat: Taylor Swift

What advice can you share with girls who want to do pageants? Cat: Always smile, be yourself and have fun. Breathe.