By Megan Brown, Navy Office of Community Outreach
MILLINGTON, Tenn. – A Washington, D.C., native was recently crowned Miss District of Columbia and is set to compete for the Miss America crown on December 16th.
Ensign Andolyn Medina is a 2013 Hickory High School graduate and a 2016 graduate of Hollins University. Additionally, in 2018 Medina earned a Master's in Forensic Psychology from George Washinton University and received a second master's degree In Clinical Psychology in 2020. Medina is currently in the fourth year of a doctoral degree at George Washington University.
Medina was selected for the Health Professions Scholarship Program (HPSP) and today serves as a Medical Service Corps Officer in the Navy Reserve.
Medina joined the Navy for the opportunities serving provides.
"I was sworn in by my parents and commissioned to the rank of Ensign on June 15th 2019," said Medina. "This was not a vision I saw. I have always been an advocate for military dependents and families but I never saw myself in the uniform. Upon learning about the Navy HPSP, I knew this was an opportunity that was too good to pass up. So it was for the scholarship (fully funded education), monthly stipend and the honor of following in my parent's footsteps was an added bonus! This is one of the best decisions I have ever made!"
According to Medina, the values required to succeed in the military are similar to those needed to compete for Miss America.
"Being crowned Miss District of Columbia 2021 was not an easy feat," said Medina. "I will now compete to become the 100th Iconic Miss America! My journey of one day becoming Miss America started as a vision 14 years ago. Through this experience, I learned discipline, perseverance, resilience, confidence, academic excellence, great interview technique, networking, the importance of honing my craft and being my personal best, wellness and fitness (mentally and physically). These skills were instrumental during my HPSP interview and screening process.
The mission of the Miss America Organization is to prepare great women for the world through a variety of programs such as scholarships, community service and support of charitable causes. This year marks the 100th anniversary of the Miss America Pageant.
Though there are many opportunities for sailors to earn recognition in their command, community and careers, Medina is most proud of passing the "Comp exam" on the first try.
"I remember hearing about "Comp exam" and if you failed after your 2nd examination, you were done," said Medina. "I was extremely proud to have passed my "Comp exam" on my first take and proud that my peers and faculty saw my leadership skills. I am the Student Faculty Liaison for my cohort doctoral class of 2023 at George Washington University and HPSP Class of 2023.
As a member of the U.S. Navy, Medina, as well as other sailors, know they are a part of a service tradition providing unforgettable experiences through leadership development, world affairs and humanitarian assistance. Their efforts will have a lasting effect around the globe and for generations of sailors who will follow.
"I can imagine that serving in the Navy will mean everything to me because I watched my parents serve with so much pride and honor," added Medina.